Do I have to change careers to become a volunteer?

You don't have to quit your day job. Our volunteer firefighters and EMTs serve on a duty crew one night a week, from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. You are also required to attend a weekend shift every five weeks. In addition, training is provided on evenings and weekends so as not to interfere with work schedules.

Administrative volunteers help staff weekend events and perform other duties as needed, often on a flexible schedule.

What if I'm not qualified as a firefighter or EMT?

You will be. The station and the county provide free training in emergency response skills. Before you are released as a firefighter or EMT, you'll have to complete the training and pass a test. In addition, duty crews run training drills and practice scenarios to constantly reinforce these skills.

How much do I have to pay for training and gear?

Both are offered at no cost to members. The county and department cover the costs of training and personal protective gear.

Do you have to be a certain age to be a volunteer member?

Yes, you must be at least 16 years old. Volunteers who are 16 or 17 years of age are considered Junior Members.

What are the other requirements for volunteering?

All volunteers must pass a criminal history check and driving history check. Operational members must also complete a physical exam, drug screening, and be fluent in the English language.

Do you stay up at night waiting for calls?

No. The station has assigned men's and women's bunk rooms for you to sleep. When a call comes in, an alarm goes off to wake you up.

Do you have ranks or officers?

Yes. Within the department, we have Chief, Assistant Fire Chief, Assistant Rescue Chief, three Captains, six Lieutenants and 20 Sergeants.

What about insurance? Am I covered in case I get hurt?

If you are injured while performing volunteer duties, you are covered by worker's compensation.

Is there a tax benefit?

Currently, the county will pay for property tax on one vehicle provided you fulfill the requirements for the tax break and live in Loudoun County. The requirements are based on the number of hours spent volunteering and attendance at monthly station meetings.

When can I start riding the fire engine and/or ambulance?

Once you complete Volunteer Recruit School (VRS), you are allowed to ride an engine or ambulance.

Can I ride other apparatus although I am just EMS or a firefighter?

Yes.

What is the process to be a member?

The process is explained in detail on the Steps to Join Our Team page.

To start the first step, download, complete, print and submit the Membership Application.

I'm interested in becoming a member, but need more information. What do I do?

Complete our Membership Interest Form and someone will contact you soon.

We also have a prospective member meeting on the last Tuesday of every month, starting at 7:00 p.m. at Station 6. Please come to ask questions and get more information.

Do I have to become a member to help at a department fundraising event?

No. Contact us at eventhelp@ashburnfirerescue.org if you are interested in working an event.

How will I find the time to volunteer?

Our volunteers come from all walks of life. By day, we're dentists, accountants, mechanics, nurses, former military personnel, students, homemakers, sales representatives. We're parents and grandparents. One night a week, we fulfill our role as volunteer firefighters and EMT's calming fears, easing minds, saving lives. We won't lie to you; volunteering takes time. Everything worthwhile does.

Why do we volunteer? Watch our recent video to find out.