FAQ about Chester County Firefighting

Q: Will I get paid?
Chester County volunteer firefighters do not receive financial compensation. However, the experience and training you will receive is free and can help launch a career as a paid first responder or medical professional. In addition, some departments offer free gym memberships and other community discounts to help reward you for your service.  

Q: Do I need experience to join?
Not at all! We provide free training and allow you to develop your skills using state-of-the-art equipment. Soon you’ll be able to determine the right tools and techniques to fight a fire and have the skills to help keep yourself safe at the same time. If you have prior experience or training, you can advance through the qualification process more quickly.  

Q: How much time do I have to devote as a volunteer?
Volunteers are only asked to give as much time as they can. There are plenty of ways you can help out as a volunteer throughout our stations. From becoming an active firefighter to an administrative volunteer. Every assignment is equally important and contributes to the safety and well-being of the community. Active firefighters can expect weekly training sessions and varying call volume depending on their local fire station. Other time commitments for fundraising and other support vary from station to station.

Q: How old do I have to be?
Firefighters must be at least 18 years old. However, many fire companies have junior firefighter or cadet programs available for volunteers under the age of 18 to begin training with and assisting full firefighters. Junior firefighters receive training and perform duties as allowed by the Pennsylvania Child Labor Laws.

Q: Will equipment be provided to me?
All of the equipment you will use during training and while on the job will be provided to you free of charge.

Q: Do I have to fight fires? Are there other ways to help?
You don’t have to fight fires to be a volunteer. There are plenty of other ways you can help! We need volunteers to direct traffic at accident scenes, help with fundraising, fire safety education, maintenance, accounting, clerical support, human resources, grant writing and web development, among other opportunities. If you have a skill or specialty, your local fire station can find a way to use it.

Q. What’s the best way for me to learn more?
Fill out an inquiry form on this website and click the volunteer associate box. Your name and address will be sent to your nearest fire station. A station representative will then call you directly to discuss a volunteer position.