Volunteer Firefighter Support program engages members of the community to provide critical support services to personnel responding to structural fires and other emergencies. Members also assist with community outreach and education activities.

Volunteer Firefighter Support staff drive and operate AIR15, a highly specialized emergency apparatus capable of refilling air bottles needed at fires. AIR15 also provides rehabilitation support services allowing firefighters engaged in suppression operations to rehydrate and recover. AIR15 is equipped with high-intensity lighting, 110-volt power, tents and traffic control items needed to support more complex responses.

Applications are accepted when openings are posted on our Job Openings page.

Duties

• Responding as dispatched with AIR15 to provide support services such as:
  • Providing extra Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) air bottles at fire scenes
  • Refilling air bottles on the scene at sustained incidents
  • Providing scene lighting with high-intensity floodlights
  • Providing safety and support for fireground personnel
• Promoting public safety education and representing South County Fire at community events, including parades
• Regular attendance at drills, meeting, community events and assigned shifts

Hiring preference points

Volunteer Firefighter Support personnel who serve more than one year in good standing are awarded two preference points per year (up to a maximum of 10) that will be applied if they enter a South County Fire career firefighter hiring process.

Training opportunities

This program provides continuing education and opportunities to earn points towards firefighting and emergency medical services certifications.

Stipend

Volunteer Firefighter Support staff earn a quarterly stipend of $1,800.

Requirements at time of application

• Age 18 or older
• Valid Washington State driver’s license
• High school diploma or GED
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds