I figured I would take some time to discuss being a Volunteer Firefighter. I realize there are a mixture of young people (including myself) and some older people that take an interest or thought about volunteer firefighting. I've been a Volunteer for about 4 years now. I love every moment of it and It's a great thing to get into. And its a way to donate your time and serve your community like no other. Some fire departments allow Juniors or explorers from ages 14 to 18 and from then on regular firefighters. Being a firefighter is truly a great learning experience. Not only do you  learn through training but also through different scenes including accidents (MVA's), structure fires, rescues, and all sorts of different calls and  emergencies. You see  the world from an entirely different perspective. And in the end it makes it all worth it when you get to make someone who's life is at their worst and make it better or even possibly get the chance to save a life. If you would like to talk to me about being a volunteer, or are interested and would like to know more, or even want to ask a question or two feel free to drop a comment below or message me. Thanks! (Here are a couple photos of my fire department in particular) 

 

Edited February 6, 20179 yr by WhiteHillsFD53

I'm a EMT/FF1/FF2/HazMat Operator. I've been a Career Fire Fighter for about 3 years now for two depts. It's a fantastic job and I love it. I'm hoping to move on to Law Enforcement however and will probably retain being  a reserve at some Dept. just so I don't give that part of my life up.

 

Cool to see another hose dragger on here.

Volunteer for four years now (paid-per-call/hr for 3 years on an on-call basis) in a small rural area, with a very large response district and small membership. Continuing my education in FF1 / 2, have most of my certifications, just need a few more to finish. Hard to do them when only certain courses are offered every year and the ones I need aren't offered. Might have to go to College and finish them off on my own dime, EMR (85% of our call volume is MCR - Medical Co-Response as the Ambulance is 20 minutes away, sometimes more.)

 

Love it. My full-time job also allows me to leave for calls (I work 5 minutes away from the fire hall.)