Volunteer Firefighters: Saving Lives Everyday.
Volunteer work is one of the best ways one can help out his or her own community. With more and more organizations offering part time opportunities for volunteer work it has become easier to pick an area in which you feel you can make a difference. One such field a person can choose is volunteer firefighter work. But before you decide you must ask yourself if you are ready. Becoming a volunteer firefighter takes a lot of dedication and first a person must complete many steps.
If you are considering becoming a volunteer firefighter must first ask yourself if you have what it takes (and be honest with yourself). It is very physically demanding and extremely stressful. Anyone who cant handle it will surely crack under pressure. But those who have completed the program will tell you it is well worth it.
One overlooked aspect people don't realize before becoming a firefighter is that they should be in good shape. This doesn't mean you should be able to run like a marathon runner or be able to bench press a car. A person should be in the best shape they can reasonably be in. You can join a gym and hone your muscles. If you start to get in shape before you decide to become a firefighter you will have a leg up on the physical aspect of the program. You should also consult your doctor or physician and get a physical to find out if you have any serious medical conditions. Those with asthma, heart conditions, or any kind of breathing issue should be wary of joining.
To officially begin first contact your local fire department on their non-emergency line. After speaking to the station officer you will be informed of various options. For example you might have the opportunity to participate in a ride along on a fire truck. This will allow you to get a great view of what it takes to be a firefighter, as well asking them for advice. Speaking with the station officer will inform you on whether this particular station offers programs for volunteer firefighters. If not you can find the nearest program over the internet.
If your local station luckily offers a volunteer training program fill out an application form as quickly as possible. The department is going to perform a background check and if you wait too long to hand in an application you may miss out on the years only class and may have to wait several months till the next program.
If your record is clean and you pass the background check you can begin with the training program. You are required to complete a minimum of 110 hours of the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) certified course. Upon completion of the course you will be granted your certification and you'll be an official volunteer fire fighter.
If you follow these steps you can become one of the very brave men and women who look danger in the eye. But you must remember to ask yourself if you are able to handle such a responsibility.