Become a Firefighter
Become a Firefighter
What are the benefits of being a volunteer firefighter or EMT?
Volunteer first responders help their fellow citizens in times of need. Volunteers enjoy a sense of accomplishment, achievement, and pride in the work they do. In addition, volunteers get to learn new skills, make new friends, be a part of a team, give back to their community, and make a real difference.
As a volunteer with the Zayante Fire Protection District, benefits include pay per call, specialized/technical training, reimbursements for items such as food or gas, tax exemptions or deductions (see your tax professional for qualifications), insurance coverage, tuition assistance, live-in programs for qualified volunteers, seasonal strike team pay, business discounts, uniforms and department paraphernalia.
What are the minimum requirements I need to meet to be a volunteer firefighter or EMT?
Our department has a few minimum requirements one must meet before joining.
- Minimum age requirement – 18
- Minimum education requirement- High School Diploma or equivalent.
- Having a valid Class C driver’s license
- Passing a Live Scan background check
- Completing a physical evaluation
- Proof of residency within certain geographic boundaries
If successful in completing and passing the above items, you will be enrolled in a fire academy. This fire academy runs during the months of February – April. The fire academy includes all fire agencies in Santa Cruz County with volunteer fire fighters. The fire academy is rewarding but time and energy intense.
What will I do as a volunteer?
These are some of the many and varied activities of a volunteer firefighter;
- Fire Suppression
- Emergency Medical Services
- Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) Response
- Search and Rescue
- Public Information and Education
- Fire Safety Inspections
- Fundraising
- Public Events
What are the next steps?
We highly recommend you come down to Station 1 and join us on several of our Tuesday night drills. This gives everyone an opportunity to experience what we do and who we are. Drills start at 7 pm and it’s best if you arrive a little early and introduce yourself. We have regular visitors, so chances are you wont be the only one. If it still looks good to you, then download our application (link below) and drop it off at Station 1. Once the application is reviewed, we will call you and schedule an appointment.