Windsor Fire Protection District (WFPD) accepts applications for volunteer firefighters year round. No experience is necessary. WFPD provides all necessary training and personal protective clothing.

Because its paid suppression staff is minimal, Windsor Fire relies heavily on its volunteers. While many volunteers are firefighters with other departments or seeking a career in the fire service, many others are not.

WFPD volunteers are essential members of the WFPD emergency services team. Their dedication and commitment are integral to our ability to provide the very best service to those who need our help. Volunteers contribute a great deal. In return, they receive career training and experience; first aid training; workman’s compensation insurance; a small stipend for responding to emergency calls; and—the greatest benefit of all—the satisfaction derived from helping those in need.

VOLUNTEER DUTIES
Windsor Fire Protection District volunteers perform many of the same duties as the paid staff, including responding to all types of emergency calls: structure, vegetation, vehicle, and other fires; medical calls; vehicle accidents; public service assists, etc. In addition volunteers assist with equipment maintenance before and after calls, assist with station cleaning and maintenance, and participate in District community service and public education functions.

TIME COMMITMENT
WFPD volunteers are required to make a substantial time commitment. They must attend training sessions at least three Wednesday evenings per month from 6:30 pm—10:00 pm. They must respond to 150 calls per year.

QUALIFICATIONS
To be considered for a WFPD volunteer firefighter position, you must:

• Be 18 years of age or older
• Live within the Town or District limits, within 10 minutes of a WFPD station
• Have a clear driving record
• Be in good physical condition
• Be free of medical conditions which may interfere with your ability to perform required duties
• Be a nonsmoker and not use tobacco products
• Be able to take orders and follow directions

APPLICATION PROCESS
You must complete and return a WFPD employment application (pdf) and a current DMV report. Each year in September or October, we invite applicants who meet WFPD requirements to meet with the volunteer selection committee. Upon successful completion of this process, a background investigation (including fingerprinting) will be done, and the candidate will be asked to take a physical examination (including drug testing), paid for by the District.

TRAINING/PROBATION
The WFPD recruit training academy normally commences in January of each year (may vary). The academy convenes every Monday night from 6:00—10:00 and every Saturday morning from 8:00-12:00, January through mid-May (days and/or times may vary). Recruits are expected to attend all training sessions.

At the conclusion of the recruit academy, there is a one-year probation period. During this period, recruits perform all volunteer firefighter duties under close supervision. Also during the probation period, the recruit must acquire first aid and CPR certificates (cost reimbursed by District upon completion of course). At the end of the 12-month period, each recruit is tested. Upon passing the tests, the recruit will be changed to volunteer status.

IN CONCLUSION
Volunteer firefighting is a challenging, highly rewarding endeavor. If you are motivated by the opportunities offered here and believe you can meet the challenges, we encourage you to apply.
 

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