Serve Your Community

If you’re looking for a meaningful way to serve your community, we have a place for you. Our volunteers come from all walks of life, united by a shared purpose: the drive to help others when it matters most.

There’s no paycheck in the volunteer fire service—only the reward of knowing you made a difference, the pride of stepping up when others needed you, and a deep camaraderie that comes from working side by side with a committed team.

What many don’t realize is that most of our nation’s fire service is carried by volunteers. Yet finding individuals willing to answer the call has become increasingly difficult. That’s why your interest means so much. You're not just filling a role—you’re becoming part of something bigger.

Membership Process

Thank you for your interest in joining our department. Here’s what to expect:

1. Complete the application in its entirety.

2. Submit your application to any station member. It will be forwarded to the appropriate personnel.

3. Interview scheduling will follow once your background check and reference checks are completed.

4. Attend an interview with our screening committee—an informal conversation to help us get to know you. Feel free to bring any questions.

5. Committee decision will be made the same evening regarding probationary acceptance.

6. If accepted, your training as a new member will begin right away.

Probationary Member Guidelines

Training Requirements

• Members must attend at least 50% of regular Tuesday night trainings (except during board meeting weeks) and all mandatory sessions during their probation.

• Mandatory trainings include:

• Basics: Our core training program, introducing department operations and equipment.

• NIMS 100, 200, 700, and 800: Available online to complete during scheduled shifts.

• Tennessee 16-Hour Intro to Fire Service

• Tennessee 64-Hour Firefighting Course

Note: Members under 18 are not required to complete state/federal classes during probation due to age restrictions. However, they must still attend regular trainings. These courses must be completed within a reasonable time once the member turns 18.

Onboarding Essentials

• Review and sign the department’s Standard Operating Guidelines.

• A department t-shirt will be issued at the department's discretion.

• Wear a clean, solid-colored shirt until you receive your official shirt.

Gear Issuance

• Gear will be distributed as training milestones are met.

• During probation, all gear must remain at the station.

Restrictions for Probationary Members

• No unsupervised presence at the station.

• All duties/training must be under supervision of an approved member.

• Door codes will be issued upon completing probation.

• No driving department vehicles until the driving program is completed.

• No interior firefighting until officially certified.

Post-Probation Advancement*

• Assigned to a crew and issued a unit number.

• Gear may be taken home.

• Eligible for additional equipment (if available).

• Granted a station door code and unsupervised access.

• May attend advanced trainings at the department’s expense.

*Some guidelines may differ for cadet members.

Membership Eligibility

To qualify for membership, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Residency: You must live within our service area or an adjacent fire district.

  • Note: Active members of other volunteer fire departments are not eligible for membership.

  • Age Requirements:

  • Cadet (Junior) Program: Minimum age is 14, with written consent from a legal guardian.

  • Regular Membership: Minimum age is 18.

  • Selection Process: All applicants will be interviewed by the screening committee. Final approval for full membership is granted following the probationary period.

  • Background Check: A clean background check is required.

• Applicants with felony convictions will not be accepted. Random drug screenings may be conducted.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

Can anyone be a volunteer?
If you're willing to volunteer your time, there's almost always a role for you.

Do volunteers get paid?
Not with a paycheck—but the reward is real. Every call you answer and every person you help becomes part of a deeply meaningful experience. It's also a great way to explore a career in emergency services.

Is there a difference between a professional and a volunteer?
Only in pay, not in professionalism. Volunteers are held to the same standards and face the same risks. The commitment is just as real.

Which department should I volunteer with?
You should apply to the department serving your home area or a neighboring district. We accept members from both.

What if I get hurt?
Volunteer departments carry insurance to protect members in case of injury.

How much time does it take?
You'll invest more time upfront as you learn, but ongoing participation has minimum requirements to stay active.

How will I get trained?
You'll receive all required training through in-house sessions and certified courses—no prior experience needed.

Do I need to buy my own gear?
No. Most departments provide the necessary gear and uniforms.

How will I know when there’s an emergency?
We will pay for an app on your phone that alerts you when dispatched by the County 911 Center.

Is it like what I see on TV?
Sometimes, but not often. Real emergencies involve teamwork, training, and readiness—not explosions and dramatics. It's more preparation than spectacle.

Can I use my personal car as an emergency vehicle?
No. You may respond in your personal vehicle, but it is not legally considered an emergency vehicle—normal traffic laws apply.

Will volunteering interfere with work or family?
Life comes first. Agencies are understanding and flexible. Discuss your plans with family and employer—they may even be supportive of your service.

Can this help me get hired by a paid department?
Absolutely. Volunteering builds real-world experience and demonstrates your commitment—qualities that employers value.

Is it dangerous?
Emergency service carries inherent risks, but proper training minimizes them. The most common threats are heart-related conditions and roadway incidents.

Can I join both a rescue squad and a fire department?
Yes, but start with one. Get trained, adjust to the commitment, and then decide if you can manage both.

Still have questions?
We’re happy to help. Reach out to learn more—we’d love to talk with you.