Recruitment Process

 

1. Application and Screening

All applicant information is reviewed following submission. Candidates who successfully pass a background check will be invited to an interview with the Volunteer Coordinator. This process generally takes 3-4 weeks.

 

2. Interview

During this interview, the time commitment, training schedule, and service expectations will be reviewed in detail to ensure the applicant can meet all requirements.

 

3. Conditional Volunteer Offer

Upon approval by the Fire Chief, selected candidates will be notified and extended a conditional offer to join Banks Fire District 13.

 

4. Physical

All candidates who receive a conditional offer will be scheduled for a firefighter physical to confirm they meet the district’s physical standards.

 

5. Onboarding Night

The district hosts a New Volunteer Reception to welcome new recruits to Banks Fire District 13. This event takes place shortly before the start of the Volunteer Firefighter Academy.

 

6. District Apparel and Equipment Fitting

Volunteers will be issued district apparel and fitted for personal protective equipment (PPE).

 

7. Volunteer Firefighter Recruit Academy

All new recruits must complete the Banks Fire District Firefighter Academy, held twice annually—in the spring and fall.

  • Duration: Approximately 7–8 weeks
  • Sessions: Wednesdays (18:00–22:00) and Saturdays/Sundays (8:00–17:00)

Schedule is subject to change

  • Attendance: 100% attendance is mandatory

Individuals with prior firefighter experience will have their certifications reviewed by the Training Officer before determining if academy attendance is required.


8. Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) Course

Volunteers are required to have a medical rating of Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) or higher. Those not already enrolled in a medical program or who do not have a medical rating will be required to take an EMR course within their first year of service. The district provides an EMR course annually for volunteers at no cost.

  • Duration: Approximately six weeks

·         Sessions: Wednesdays (18:00-22:00) and Saturdays (8:00-16:00)

Schedule is subject to change

Individuals who already have a medical rating will have their certifications reviewed by the EMS Officer.

 

9. Wildland Academy

All new recruits must complete the Banks Fire District Firefighter Academy, held annually typically at the end of May.

·         Sessions: Thursday and Friday (18:00-22:00) and Saturday and Sunday (8:00-17:00)

 

Schedule is subject to change

 

10. Active Volunteer Service

The first year of volunteer service is considered probationary. Volunteers participate in ongoing training and community service throughout their tenure.


11. Completion of New Firefighter Task Book

Volunteers must complete their New Firefighter Task Book within 6 months of graduation from Academy.


12. Weekly Drills

Drills are held every Monday evening from 7:00–9:00 p.m. Volunteers must attend at least 75% of scheduled drills, unless enrolled in a District-approved training program (e.g., Fire Science or EMS).

 

 

Helpful Tips

  • Review the entire volunteer posting, including time commitments, before applying.
  • Confirm you can attend all required appointments, the full academy, and meet ongoing participation expectations.
  • Visit our website for additional information—most common questions are answered there.
  • Check your email frequently for updates and important notices.