Volunteer Firefighters

The 2011-2012 Sooke Fire Rescue Service Recruit class has now started. Next Recruit class is anticipated to begin in September 2012.

HOW CAN I BECOME A VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER?

"Have you ever thought- If I don't volunteer, who will?"

Volunteer firefighter applications are available online, at Fire Station #1, 2225 Otter Point Road, or by contacting Assistant Chief Matt Barney, Training Officer at 250-642-5422.

Volunteer firefighter applications are accepted year round. Training sessions for new recruit firefighters commonly begin each September at Fire Station #1. When basic training is completed, successful applicants will be issued a pager and can begin attending emergency calls.  Applications must be received in full before the end of August to be considered for the September Recruit class.

After basic training, recruits become a "Probationary" firefighter. At the end of Probation each recruit must successfully complete a written and practical evaluation.

Upon successful completion of probation the new member becomes a "regular" firefighter and moves to regular Thursday night training sessions with their fellow firefighters.

  • Volunteers living west of the Sooke River Bridge will be assigned to Station 1
  • Volunteers living east of the Sooke River Bridge will be assigned to Station 2

All new recruit firefighters are trained to the NFPA 1001 Standard through the Justice Institute of British Columbia.  Once recruit members have achieved the NFPA 1001 Level 1 Standard, they are able to continue the process to become accredited NFPA 1001 Level 2 firefighters.

Volunteer Firefighter Requirements:

Required Qualifications

  • Resident of the District of Sooke
  • High School Graduation or GED
  • Canadian citizen or landed immigrant status
  • Driving record that demonstrates safe and responsible driving behaviour
  • Must be in good physical condition and able to successfully complete agility test
  • At least 19 years of age
  • Current drivers license and access to vehicle
  • Must pass a criminal record check
  • Must be able to attend all scheduled training sessions
  • Must work well with others and be able to function in the dynamic and fast paced emergency services.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Class 1, 2, 3, or 4 drivers license
  • Air brake endorsement
  • Fire related courses, such as NFPA 1001 Level II, NFPA 1002, NFPA 472
  • Post secondary education
  • Technical or trade certificate
  • Advanced first aid training
  • Previous fire or emergency services experience
  • Ability to respond to daytime emergencies

Sooke Fire Rescue offers no obligation information and orientation sessions for all new and prospective volunteer applicants. You and your spouse are encouraged to attend where you can learn just what it takes to become a firefighter in your community.

Being a volunteer firefighter is an extremely rewarding and fulfilling opportunity.  All members will be challenged both mentally and physically on a daily basis.  Being an active volunteer firefighter resembles a part time job.  However, volunteer firefighters receive no compensation for attending emergency calls or training.

Please print, fully complete, and deliver to Sooke Fire Station #1, 2225 Otter Point Rd, between 7am and 6pm daily.

Volunteer Firefighter Application

Questions about recruiting? Contact us at fire.recruitment@sooke.ca