WHY VOLUNTEER?
Becoming a volunteer firefighter gives you a unique opportunity to serve your community while joining a select group of people few ever get to be a part of. Whether you choose to help out in a support role, become a fully qualified firefighter, rescue technician or apparatus operator, or pursue a path to becoming a fire officer, it requires hard work and commitment, but it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll ever have. If you want to be part of a close-knit team, have a desire to learn and keep on learning, and want to help people when they need it the most, then the volunteer fire service just might be for you.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I VOLUNTEER?
If you’re new to the fire service, you’ll start off with an orientation period in which you’ll be taught basic skills needed to safely help out during emergency responses. Over the first year or two, you’ll participate in department activities and emergency responses, filling roles suited to your level of training and ability, and complete the State Fire Academy training that helps you become fully qualified as a firefighter or function in your chosen support role. If you’ve already spent some time in the fire service, your initial duties will be matched to your level of training and experience. Either way, where you go from there is largely up to you.
HOW TO JOIN
First, you must complete one combined application to the Cumru Township Fire Department, Cumru Township Volunteer Firefighters’ Association, and Cumru Township Volunteer Firefighters’ Relief Association. You must then pass a criminal background check, complete an interview with the Membership Committee, and be accepted into probationary membership by a vote of the Firefighters’ Association. Successful completion of the six month probationary period completes the full membership process. We take applications year-round at the Fire Chief's office in the Cumru Township Municipal Building at 1775 Welsh Road, or you can speak directly with a department officer. There is no cost to apply or to be a menber of the department.
ACTIVE MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS
Our goal is to safely and effectively help our community in times of need, and that requires commitment to fitness for duty on everyone’s part. Our regular department training is held at 7:00 PM each Monday evening.
Participate in a minimum of 18 department activity sessions annually.
Respond to emergency calls and help out with community activities as you are able.
Complete annual training in First Aid, CPR, bloodborne pathogens, and hazardous materials.
Complete State Fire Academy Local Level Training courses as needed for you to work safely and effectively during emergency responses.
Comply with department policies and procedures and remain free of misdemeanor and felony convictions.
WHAT WE PROVIDE FOR OUR ACTIVE MEMBERS
We believe your personal commitment to community service shouldn’t mean having to make a financial commitment too, so we provide the equipment and support you’ll need to do the job.
Firefighting turnout gear and personal safety equipment
Fire pager
Department apparel and uniforms
Payment for all training courses and certification testing
Injury and disability insurance
Periodic physical exams
Flu shots and hepatitis vaccinations
WHAT WE OFFER OUR ACTIVE MEMBERS
We’re asking for you for your valuable time and effort, and we think we should give you a few extras in return.
Monetary incentive program based on levels of activity and training
In-station dayroom and kitchenette facilities
Social activities run by the Firefighters’ Association
Use of CTFD fitness facility
|
