Become a Firefighter

We feel that we are an outstanding organization dedicated to serving the public. Anyone deciding to become a volunteer firefighter must realize that not only is it a time commitment, but more importantly, it is a commitment to dedication and performance to and for the fire department and our community. We ask that our firefighting personnel maintain good physical health, do their best to stay in good physical condition, and have excellent attendance at all drills. This is more than a social club. It is an organization devoted to performing the demanding tasks assigned and required. You cannot perform these tasks if you are a ‘free- lancer.’ Teamwork is vital! Firefighting is one of the most dangerous jobs in the world. It is not a game. It requires your total dedication to save lives and protect against loss of property. We cannot accept a partial commitment.

Prior to becoming a volunteer firefighter, however, the following must occur:

Complete the attached application in its entirety. Volunteer firefighters must be 18 years of age.

• A background check will be ordered and reviewed. Please note that if you have a felony conviction, you are ineligible to become a volunteer firefighter. Provided the background check is acceptable, however, you will then be approved to take the physical agility test.

• Physical Agility Test - You will note that this is a pass/fail test, and if needed, can be taken again. Upon satisfactory completion of the physical agility test, you will be approved to attend the next scheduled Entry Level Firefighter Academy.

Entry Level Firefighter Academy, which includes:
A. Entry Level Firefighting, as prescribed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) (40 to 60 hours). You will be tested during Entry Level Firefighter Training. You must score a minimum of 75% on the written tests, and 80% on the practical exams.

B. OR-OSHA Hazardous Material First Responder - Awareness Level (approx. 6 hours).

C. CPR training.

D. Live Fire training in a live fire prop or an actual structure.

• A mentor will be assigned to you. This will be a veteran firefighter who will help and guide you!

After successful completion of the Academy, you will be certified by Siuslaw Valley Fire and Rescue as an Entry Level Firefighter, at which time you will be issued a pager and able to respond to emergency calls. To maintain your status as a volunteer firefighter, we expect you to attend meetings and training sessions, work on special projects, and more importantly, respond to as many emergency calls as your schedule allows.

At the end of one year, the officers will review your record and make a recommendation to the Deputy Chief, in charge of Operations for your participation as a firefighter for Siuslaw Valley Fire and Rescue. The following criteria will be used in making the recommendation:

1. Drill and emergency event attendance. Exceeding the minimum is preferable.
2. Ability to operate safely at drills and emergency events.
3. Ability to get along effectively with other department personnel and work in a cooperative manner in a team environment.

We want you to join Siuslaw Valley Fire and Rescue. We guarantee that you will feel a great deal of pride when you work with your fellow firefighters to save your neighbor’s property. We will provide you with the training, protective gear, insurance, and an opportunity to learn new skills. You provide your personal commitment to excellence.

Respectfully,
The Officers of Siuslaw Valley Fire and Rescue