A volunteer responds at a moment's notice to building fires, car fires, vehicle accidents, hazardous materials incidents, and medical emergencies. Volunteer Firefighters & EMT's are trained to nationally recognized standards in the areas of fire suppression, rescue, hazardous materials, apparatus operations, CPR, first aid, and Emergency Medical Technician.
Volunteers train once a week at the fire station to stay current on their firefighting skills. The weekly training combines classroom sessions with hands-on practical exercises, and is currently held on Tuesday evenings from 7-9pm, with occasional Saturday training's also.
Volunteering can be a rewarding way to spend your time, but you will need to be focused and committed to the role. The training can be difficult and time consuming. The time you give to respond to calls can be lengthy, and at inopportune times. So please be realistic with yourself. If you won't be able to commit to the life and schedule of a volunteer firefighter, consider other ways to give back to your community.
Volunteer responders help their fellow citizens in times of need. Volunteers also enjoy a sense of accomplishment, achievement, and pride in the work they do. In addition, you also learn new skills, make new friends, get to be a part of a team, give back to your community, and make a real difference.
Volunteers also receive on duty injury medical coverage, monetary reimbursement or stipends for responding and training participation, life insurance,
and the opportunity for additional training.For more information on volunteering with Cowlitz County Fire District 3 or if you wish to apply, please contact the district office for information or an application.