What is the process to become a Volunteer?
First you complete and submit the Volunteer Application Form. The Application Form may be picked up at any of the District 6 Stations. You will then be called for an interview with the Fire Chief. You will be asked questions so that we may get to know you better, what kind of hours you could volunteer, what station you would like to be at, etc. The interview also gives you a chance to ask questions about being a volunteer. It is not a job interview, but rather a chance to get to know you. As part of the application process a criminal background check may be performed. Once your background check comes back, and is acceptable, you will be called in for your equipment outfitting and you may begin training and answering calls. What training is required?
As a new volunteer you are required to attend ‘Recruit Training’. The training is conducted by your fellow District 6 firefighters, and consists of several classroom and hands-on sessions, and takes approximately 24 hours. Upon completion of the Recruit course you will take the ‘Firefighter Trainee’ course, which consists of several full day (8 hours) hands on training classes. These classes take place over a seven month period. In addition, you are expected to attend the weekly training held on Thursday at 7PM, and each year there is ‘Required Training’ in order to maintain specific firefighter skills certificates (ref ‘Training’ page on this website). How will I be notified that there is a call taking place?
Each Volunteer is issued a District pager. The pager alerts you to a call, the nature of the call, and its location. Will I be required to answer calls outside of District 6?
No. We have mutual aid agreements with fire districts and communities in Okanogan County. When requested, we provide equipment and personnel on an as available basis. You may be asked, on a case by case basis, if you are available to respond, however you are under no obligation to respond. OCFD6 also participates in Washington state wide mobilizations, usually related to wildland fires. As with mutual aid requests we provide equipment and personnel on an as available basis. Am I covered if I suffer any injuries while performing work with the District?
Yes. Members of OCFD6 are covered by “Line of Duty “disability and death insurance provided through the ‘Volunteer Fire Fighter’s & Reserve Officers Relief and Pension Act’ (RCW 41.24). Fees for this insurance are paid for by the District. You can learn more by visiting their website at www.bvff.wa.gov. Are Volunteers paid for responding to a call?
If you respond to a call, are properly equipped to be ‘in service,’ and sign the station response log you receive $20 per call. The annual response period is from 1 November through 31 October and compensation checks are issued once per year, in December. What are my obligations as a volunteer?
At minimum you are expected to attend the weekly training meeting, attend the annual mandatory training classes, and to complete ‘Recruit’ and ‘Firefighter’ Training’ school. You are also expected to respond to all OCFD6 ‘emergency calls’ when you are available. The Fire District operates in accordance with its ‘Standard Operating Procedures and Guidelines.’ As a volunteer you are required to perform in accordance with these procedures and guidelines. How much time does it take to be a volunteer?
Weekly training averages 3 to 4 hours, one night a week. Many volunteers enjoy putting in more time to attend special training courses and to help at the stations. How long will it be before I can make a genuine contribution?
Immediately, upon completion of the application process. Your contributions and responsibilities will increase as you gain experience and training. Will I have any out-of-pocket costs?
No. Your equipment and training are paid for by the Fire District. | 