Training All Around! Prince William Fire and Rescue System Volunteer Positions Part I

Many people hear “volunteer” and don’t realize the rigorous jobs that volunteer firefighters and rescue workers perform. Prince William County Fire and Rescue System (PWCFRS) offers a variety of positions and advancement opportunities, providing our volunteers with extensive training and on-the-job experience. You can rise through the ranks while performing rewarding duties within our organization. Check out some of our positions that follow the firefighter development path. (Note, positions vary by station; however, training requirements meet all local, state and national standards.)

Firefighter Development Path

While you won’t simply finish firefighter class and start driving fire and rescue apparatus, you will find an appropriate place for you to learn and grow. We follow strict requirements to ensure that the crews we send out the door are capable of handling the emergencies we respond to. As a Volunteer Firefighter of the PWCFRS departments, you will progress on a clear path from the moment you start riding to the day you are cleared as an officer. Here are just a few of the positions you may encounter while on the path:

• Recruit – You are a new member with little or no previous training or experience. You will need to complete the following basic classes in order to be enrolled in a Firefighter course: CPR, Infection Control, Stress First Aid, HazMat Awareness, EMS Billing, NIMS 100, 200, 700 and 800. In addition, many departments have required courses designed to help the recruit understand the department and meet their specific requirements. Short, in-house classes such as Harassment Awareness, Station Safety/Department History and PPE/SCBA help recruits understand the expectations and safety requirements everyone has as a member.
• Engine Company Firefighter – After completing the Firefighter I class and gaining some experience, you’re cleared as an engine company firefighter and can now ride as the lead firefighter on board.
• Engine Company Driver – After gaining experience an Engine Company Firefighter, completion of a state pump operator class and Emergency Vehicle Operators Course (EVOC) makes you eligible for engine company driver. You then must complete a number of practical scenarios and supervised responses.
• Truck Company Driver – After some time and practice driving the pumper, and upon completion of an aerial operator class, you can become a driver of the truck. Again, for this position, you must complete a number of practical scenarios and supervised responses.
• Engine and Truck Designated Officer – Once you’re cleared to ride in the above positions, you may attend an Incident Officer class, where you learn more about commanding the initial response to any incident. After some intense scenario practice, you’re cleared to this stage in your development prior to becoming a unit officer.

Is one of these volunteer firefighter positions calling to you? Get the details to find out what you need to know now! Contact us to learn more about your area of interest. Come join the rewarding family of volunteers at PWFRS today!

Are you looking for a change? Here in Prince William County, the volunteer departments provide fire and emergency medical services to the County’s citizens and visitors during weekday evenings, weekends and holidays. Prince William County’s volunteer fire and rescue departments are seeking motivated individuals who have the desire to make a difference and provide an important service to their community. Learn more now.

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