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The Personal and Practical Benefits of Becoming a Firefighter

“In firefighting, your crew is your family, and every call is a family matter.”

Here’s the person you’ll become:

  • Gain no-cost leadership, confidence, and problem-solving skills that employers seek
  • Create networking opportunities in every industry that go far beyond the firehouse
  • Earn no-cost certifications that stand out when applying for jobs or promotions
  • Access scholarships and educational opportunities
  • Stay physically and mentally active while learning emergency response skills
  • Health checkups and affordable health insurance options (NYSHIP & VFBL)
  • Join a tradition of service and pride
  • Help shape and be a face of the future of your community
  • Financial Benefits

  • Save money with tax credits and property tax incentives
  • Access affordable health insurance options
  • The opportunity for retirement benefits, including tax-deferred income benefits (LOSAP) and the Firefighter’s Home
  • Be eligible for scholarships and tuition assistance
  • Be covered by insurance while serving

You don’t have to fight fires to be a firefighter.

Not everybody has the desire or ability to run into burning buildings to extinguish a blaze and rescue people and pets. And that’s ok.

There are plenty of other meaningful roles you can take on in your fire department. Like crunching numbers? Help us balance the books. Organized? Be an administrator or put together a fundraiser. Love taking pictures? Become a fire photographer. Good with tools? Help fix stuff at the firehouse. There are so many ways to help out.

Whether you’re looking to give back, grow personally, or build valuable skills, becoming a volunteer firefighter offers unmatched rewards both personal and practical.

Photos by Sidewinder Photography