Volunteer

MBLFD is a combination department, with Career personnel and Student and Volunteer personnel working together to provide outstanding service to the citizens we protect.  If you have a desire to become involved with MBLFD as a Volunteer, applications are accepted all through the year.  As a volunteer firefighter you will become an important part of our response team.  We have many volunteer opportunities available ranging from volunteer firefighter, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and Support Services personnel.

• Responds to alarms of fire or other emergenciesReports to company officer for instructions
• Performs duties as outlined in firefighting procedure for the suppression of fires such as: laying of lines, raising of ladders, ventilation, forcible entry, etc...
• Performs such other duties in line of rescue or first aid as required
• Assumes certain responsibility for servicing and maintenance of fire equipment
• When assigned by an officer, may drive certain fire apparatus or equipment
• Maintains fire station and grounds
• Operates certain fire apparatus at fires
• Conducts training and instructional programs in lieu of an officer on the scene
• May assume command of the fire or emergency in the absence of an officer.

The Firefighter Recruit Academy course of study is designed to provide new firefighters the basic knowledge and skills to perform safely on the fireground in a company formation. The curriculum objectives meet the requirements of the Washington State Basic Firefighter I Training Program.

What is the academy purpose?

The recruit academy prepares students for the fireground by providing classroom and drillground training in all primary fire service topics, including fire behavior, fire suppression, water supply, ventilation, search and rescue, overhaul, salvage, and fire scene evidence protection.

Firefighter recruits receive instruction in the use of all firefighter tools and equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE), and self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).  The academy runs for three months with classes held weekly on Monday and Wednesday nights and extended fireground practicals during three full weekends.

Interested in a career in the Fire Service?

Many individuals who enroll in the academy are searching for a career in the fire service as a full time paid firefighter. They enroll in the academy to gain the initial training that will lead them down that path through ongoing training and certification with their sponsoring agency. They gain volunteer experience with their district in order to learn the profession.

Applications are reviewed twice a year (Summer and Winter) to determine if the applicant fits the needs of the district.

Following this process, the successful Volunteer Firefighter Candidate begins orientation and basic training in the Thurston County Firefighter Recruit Academy.  MBLFD provides all necessary personal protective equipment and alerting devices. These remain the property of the district.  Medical insurance is carried by the District to cover fire department related injuries, and a group life insurance program is also provided. Washington State has an outstanding pension program available and the District pays all of the costs along with an additional Accident and Disability policy.  Firefighting is not for everyone. It takes more than just a desire to help people. It requires courage, dedication, assertiveness