Frequently Asked Question About Being A Volunteer
Who is the Washington Township Fire Department?
Washington Volunteer Firemen, Inc. strives to have a combination of dedicated
volunteers and career staff. Our goal is to recruit volunteers who are well
qualified or willing to learn and have an interest in the job, and who will be
committed to serving the community as a volunteer firefighter. To do this, we
feel it is important to give each applicant a realistic description of the job
and its tasks.
What is expected of a firefighter?
As an active firefighter with the Washington Township Volunteer Fire Department,
you will be required to perform a large variety of tasks. These tasks may
include rescue and care of victims, fire prevention and community service. We
urge you to consider the entire job of firefighter and not just the exciting or
glamorous aspects. What follows intends to give you a better understanding of
the job. It does not intended to describe every task required of a Volunteer
Firefighter.
Who can be a Volunteer Firefighter?
There are 3 types of Volunteers: Junior Member (Age 16 though 18), Active Member
(Lives or works in the town) and Duty Crew Member (Lives outside of town but is
a member of the department by putting in a set number of hours).
What kind of training do I need?
You must have Firefighter 1 or be willing to attend a NJ Fire School for
training. The Fire Department will cover the cost of this training. Once you
have firefighter training, you can then become an EMT. The department also
covers the cost for this training.
When is training?
There is spring and fall classes offered 2 evenings a week. There are also
special 1-day weekend classes as part of this schedule.
Do I need Firefighter 1 to join the company?
No, not at first. We will provide on the job training. You will have to attend
Firefighter 1 within the first year.
What about a Medical Check Up?
You must pass a medical exam. The Fire Department will cover the cost of this.
Do I have the time? Do I have to make all of the calls?
There is a drill or meeting on Tuesdays at 7:00 pm. Fire calls are answered when
needed. All members must meet a 30% attendance record to stay active.
What About Gear?
All active members will be supplied duty crew uniforms, turnout gear, and a fire
pager.
Can I join as an EMT?
Yes, but you must become Firefighter 1 trained within 1 year.
Are there any incentives?
Yes, we offer Length of Service Award Program for retirement, some tuition
reimbursement, life insurance, a fitness center and PRIDE: pride in yourself,
and your Fire Department, knowing that you are helping your friends and
neighbors in providing a very necessary service. It is a privilege to be a
volunteer fire fighter.
Anything else?
There is the opportunity to participate in parades, attend dinners, dances and trips. There is also a member’s lounge with a TV and other activities. And as a volunteer firefighter you get to experience the thrilling adventure of riding inside of the fire engine and listen to the sirens.