How does volunteer fire fighting work?

In emergency situations, volunteer firefighters should expect to extinguish and prevent fires as well as administer first aid [source: Grafton Volunteer Fire Department]. Duties also include rescuing victims from cars or buildings, carrying fire hoses up stairs or ladders, and breaking down doors.

Why are volunteer firefighters not paid?

In general, a good rule of thumb is “no, volunteer firefighters don’t get paid”. This not necessarily because the departments don’t want to pay their volunteers, but because it’s a bit of a legal minefield thanks to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

How are volunteer firefighters typically notified?

Your volunteer may carry a pager or radio or receive phone text alerts that tell them when there is an emergency. This alert can go off at any hour of any day, on any day of the week, in any weather condition.

How do I become a volunteer firefighter for Cal Fire?

To become a Volunteer In Prevention, all you need is the willingness to give your time, a desire to learn fire prevention fundamentals, and an interest in educating Californians of all ages. Contact your nearest CAL FIRE Unit and talk to the VIP coordinator.

Can volunteer firefighters have beards?

So, can firefighters have beards? Generally, no, you will not be allowed to have a beard and will most likely be required to be clean shaven all times while on duty. Many professions allow for this as long as the beard is well-groomed and hygienic.

What does a volunteer firefighter do at a fire station?

Maintenance. Maintenance duties also extend to the fire station itself; common chores include mowing the grass, attending to the landscaping and cleaning. At a fire or accident, volunteer firefighters work to clean up the scene to prevent any additional damage and may have to shovel, sweep or remove debris.

Can a volunteer firefighter become a career firefighter?

While not at all volunteer firefighters wish to become career firefighters, many do. If the fire department that you want to work for is a combination department (paid and volunteer firefighters), getting hired as a volunteer first can be a great way to prove to the chiefs that you have what it takes to be a paid firefighter.

How many hours a week does a firefighter work?

However, this number will be dependant on each individual department’s requirements, as well as each firefighter’s availability to work. Volunteer fire departments don’t have the same hour requirements as a career fire department. Most career firefighters work a rotating schedule that averages 56 hours a week.

How much do volunteer firefighters get paid?

Volunteer firefighters, for the most part, do not get paid. You are volunteering your time. However, there are some fire departments that will give stipends per call or reimburse for certain expenses. There term volunteer kinda sums it.

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