Become a Volunteer Firefighter!

Thank you for your interest in becoming a volunteer firefighter with the Bergheim Volunteer Fire Department (BVFD). We are men and women of varying backgrounds, ages, and educational levels with a desire to serve the community of Bergheim. The BVFD officially opened in 2009. Our first call responded to a brush fire on June 1, 2009.

We currently have over 20 active members, and our response area covers approximately 58 square miles. Our services include responding to Structure and Brush fires, Motor Vehicle accidents, Lift and Medical EMS assistance.

Want to join our crew? - Here's how?

If you have the desire to serve, a positive attitude, and a little bit of time available... you can be a volunteer firefighter for BVFD. While prior fire suppression experience is a plus, you don't need any previous experience in emergency services. You will receive the training you need when you join the department.

Our training is comprised of both practical application and in-class instruction. Trainees learn the basics; from the gear utilized, apparatus in our fleet, and the safe operation of various rescue tools, such as fire hoses, axes, ladders, and other equipment used in our duties. Along with firefighting techniques, you'll be instructed in fire suppression, preventing fires, Motor Vehicle Accident scene handling, and performing lift assists and basic emergency medical procedures.

Basic Requirements/Qualifications:

  - You must be at least 18 years of age or 16 with parental permission

  - Provide high school diploma or GED (those still in school can provide upon completion of high school)

  - Have a valid driver's license

  - Not have any felony convictions

  - Not have any class "B" or higher misdemeanor convictions within the last 5 years.

  - Pass a background investigation and have an acceptable driving record

What am I getting myself into, or what will I do as a volunteer at the Bergheim VFD?

Depending on the needs of the department and the level of training you've received to date. Volunteers are monitored and training recorded to assess each individual's abilities before being tasked with any response to the various types of calls the department receives. Typically, these calls range from Emergency calls to Administrative functions at the department. During your time here, anticipate being part of one or more of the following:

  - Fire Suppression

  - Emergency Medical Services

  - Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) Response

  - Search and Rescue

  - Traffic Incident Management (TIM) and Highway Safety

  - Public Information and Education

  - Inspections

  - Fundraising

  - Public Events

Remember that it takes physical stamina and mental strength to take on this commitment. As a Member of BVFD, you'll be required to keep a clear head and maintain your composure when assisting in traumatic events, like auto crash injuries and fatalities.

Application Process

  - Initial Application and attendance at three consecutive meetings

  - Background investigation

  - Must complete initial membership training requirements (online courses in NIMS 100, 200, 700, 800, CTBS)

  - At the 3rd meeting, your application is presented to the membership for voting. Assuming 2/3 of the membership approves, the applicant will

     become a probationary member.

After completing the Probationary Training Manual, the BVFD Officers will vote on the application to become a member.

During your initial time with the fire department, you will be evaluated on several criteria. This probationary period is necessary to ensure competency and continuity between you and the existing members of the department. This probationary period may be lengthened or abbreviated at the discretion of the Fire Chief. Your interaction with each member of the BVFD that you meet and work with gives you a significant asset: a reputation! During your probationary period, allow your upbeat personality to prevail but adhere closely to the advice received; "be a humble rookie."

Training is held every other Tuesday, from 1800hrs to approximately 2030hrs (sometimes longer depending on the training topics). Being early shows initiative and allows time to become familiar with the apparatus and the tools. Initiative is encouraged. Be the first to show up for training sessions, prepare, and take notes. Check-in and sit in the front row or be the first one to perform a skill. Put your cell phone away. Dress appropriately. Long pants, as well as closed-toe shoes, are mandatory for working around fire equipment. Tasteful clothing is not merely a suggestion.

In addition to department training requirements, additional training opportunities are offered via the internet and through local, state, and regional courses. Seek out the advice of a BVFD Officer for details.

As a member, you'll be provided access to the Alert System advising us of a 911 call. Members should respond, when available, to the station and don the appropriate uniform for response to that particular call out. This occurs on all calls, including when first out units are on large-scale calls; other responding members will be on standby at the station to assist or be prepared for other area call-outs.