Graham Fire & Resue Volunteer Programs
The volunteer program provides hands-on experience for individuals interested in serving their community
via the fire service. Graham Fire & Rescue typically holds one recruit academy each year for both
combat (firefighting) and support positions.
Interested individuals must submit their name and contact information to Graham Fire & Rescue to be placed
on an interest list for the upcoming academy. The application process will be open in the summer, and those on
the interest list will be notified via email.
Interested individuals must submit their name and contact information to Graham Fire & Rescue to be placed
on an interest list for the upcoming academy. The application process will be open in the summer, and those on
the interest list will be notified via email.
Volunteer Program Minimum Requirements
Volunteer candidates must be 18 years of age or older and be a high school graduate or equivalent. You must have
a valid Washington driver's license and pass a criminal/driving background, reference check, pre-academy medical
exam and physical ability test. Volunteers must live within the GF&R jurisdiction, with exception to the
resident internship program.
Combat Positions (Firefighting)
The volunteer firefighter must be able to follow standard policies, procedures, guidelines, and safety rules.
He/she must participate in required training drills to attain and maintain necessary skills in fire suppression,
life safety, rescue and property conservation operations. This individuals will maintain, check, and test
apparatus, equipment, and facilities as assigned.
Participate in community activities, public education, fire watches, station tours, and other events that require
positive public interaction. Write and submit required reports by computer for emergency and non-emergency
activities. Respond to alarms and perform firefighter duties including, but not limited to, the use of hoses, pumps,
equipment, emergency apparatus, and tools.
GF&R currently offers two programs to those individuals interested in combat firefighting: a resident internship
and a respond-from-home program.
Graham Fire & Rescue Chaplain Program
The mission of the Chaplain Program is to provide support to our firefighters, their families
and to the community. Graham Fire & Rescue currently has four dedicated community
volunteer Chaplains who provide the following services to our community and fellow members:
- Provide aftermath assistance, freeing up operation personnel for other emergency duties
- Provide comfort, counsel and education to those experiencing loss
- Assist in contacting family members
- Assist in notification of clergy
- Assist with "Red Cross" notification and arrangements
Graham Fire & Rescue Support Services
The Support Services Program assists with rehabilitating firefighters operating at emergency incidents and
training exercises. Graham Fire & Rescue has five dedicated community volunteer personnel that provide
the following incident rehabilitation support:
- Provide an area of rest and rehabilitation
- Provide relief from extreme climatic conditions
- Provide fluid and food replenishment
- Assist in crew rotation and medical monitoring
The Path to Being a GF&R Volunteer
Interested individuals must submit their name and contact information via online form to be placed on an interest
list for the upcoming academy. Individuals on the interest list will be contacted via email each summer and invited
to submit an application and participate in the selection process. The components in the selection process include:
- Application
- Orientation Session
- Written Examination
- Oral Interview
- Criminal/Driving Background
- Physical Ability Test
- Medical Evaluation
- Board of Commissioners Approval
- Academy
- Graduation
- Station and/or Shift Assignment
- Division Transition Meeting