Frederick County Fire & Rescue Department
Become a Volunteer Today!
We have compiled the following list of frequently asked questions from prospective volunteers. Call us at (540) 722-8358 if you have additional questions. We are excited that you have the "COURAGE TO CARE" and are considering a professional volunteer experience. We invite you to join one of our eleven volunteer fire and rescue companies today!
Q. Why are volunteers needed?
A. The majority of responders within the Frederick County area are volunteers. The eleven volunteer fire and rescue stations own and operate their own equipment. Career staffing is provided to supplement the volunteer force.
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Q. As a volunteer, would I need to respond on incidents or are there other areas in which I can offer assistance?
A. Some people have no desire to fire structural fires, administer first aid to the sick or rescue accident victims. Some may have the desire, but might not be able to devote the time to training. There are many other positions within the fire and rescue system, which are administrative duties, bookkeeping, computer support, financial management, fundraising, grant writing, pageantry, public education, training, and vehicle and building maintenance and repairs. These opportunities may be seasonal or involve a regular time commitment. Regardless of your skill set, positions are available for you through the fire and rescue department.
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Q. Are there age restrictions for volunteers?
A. To join, one must be at least sixteen years of age. In addition, a Fire & Rescue Explorer Post is in the development stage and will allow for participation by those at least fourteen years of age. There is no maximum age limit.
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Q. What are the training requirements?
A. Training requirements vary. As a general rule, volunteers involved in firefighting will complete approximately 120 hours of basic firefighting training; volunteers involved in emergency medical services will complete a minimum of 110 hours. Specialized training such as vehicle extrication, hazardous materials response or advanced life support training will result in more hours.
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Q. Where can I register for training?
A. Classes are sponsored by the Fire and Rescue Department, as well as by the local fire and rescue departments. Classes are also held by the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, the Virginia Office of EMS, and various additional local resources. In addition, Lord Fairfax Community College provides EMT-Enhanced and EMT-Intermediate programs.
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Q. What is the cost of the required training?
A. The required training for service as a volunteer is provided free of charge.
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Q. If I have current training certifications, will they count towards the County's training requirements?
A. Virginia has agreements for reciprocity with several states for the acceptance of both Fire and EMS certifications.
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Q. After my initial training, how much time will I be expected to give as member?
A. Most volunteer companies set up schedules based on your availability. Volunteer members can spend anywhere from ten to sixty hours per month depending on their level of participation within the Companies.
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Q. How much will I pay for my protective clothing?
A. All necessary protective clothing is provided by the volunteer companies at no cost to the volunteer.
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Q. Who provides insurance coverage for my activities as a volunteer?
A. Frederick County and all volunteer companies provide insurance coverage for volunteer members.
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Q. Are volunteers directly compensated or paid for their services?
A. At this time, no direct compensation or pay is received by volunteer members. However, our community is very supportive and appreciative of the services that volunteers provide and offer many benefits to express their gratitude. Please see our benefits chart for more information.
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Q. Do I need to live in Frederick County to serve as a volunteer member?
A. No, you do not need to live in the County to volunteer.
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