Firefighting is a very strenuous and demanding job, both physically and mentally. Firefighting involves a great deal of manipulative training and demands dedication, perseverance, good judgment and a positive attitude.You will possibly see death, catastrophic loss and work endless hours under pressure.If you should choose to begin the process of becoming a Volunteer Firefighter with Tuolumne County Fire Department know that it is not an easy task but what you will acquire is invaluable

How Do I Get Started

• Download and fill out an application. Submit the completed packet to TCFD office 18440 Striker Court, Sonora
• Get a DMV driving record print out (must be current within 30 days) You can get one online at www.dmv.ca.gov
• Complete a fingerprint card (Tuolumne County Sheriff's CSU Office. 13775 Mono Way Suite D Sonora, CA)
• Complete an oral interview.
• Complete & pass a medical physical (you will be directed to TCFD's approved physician and the cost is covered.)
• Complete a Safety Orientation
• Enroll in & complete the Tuolumne County Regional Fire Academy.

Continuing Commitment

So you’ve become a Volunteer Firefighter and achieved your goal.Now what?
Firefighting requires constant training and practice.Some of these practices and trainings are required annually and bi-annually.They consist of the following:

• Attend 50% of MONTHLY STATION TRAINING SESSIONS (Annually)
• Respond to 20% of STATION DISPATCHED INCIDENTS (Annually)
• Complete 8 hours of HAZARDOUS MATERIALS REFRESHER COURSE (Annually)
• Complete 8 hours of BLOOD BORNE PATHOGENS REFRESHER COURSE (Annually)
• Complete 2 hours of RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES IN THE WORKPLACE-EEO COURSE (Bi-annually)
• Complete 16 hours of EMS CE’s to retain First Responder Certification (Bi-annually)
• Complete 48 hours of DRILL SESSIONS-CATEGORY II(Annually)
• Complete 8 hours of DEFENSIVE DRIVING REFRESHER COURSE (Every four years)
• Complete 4 hours for a MEDICAL PHYSICAL (Annually)
• Complete 2 hours for a FIT TEST (Annually)

Some of these trainings will be incorporated into the Monthly Station Training Sessions to consolidate training hours.
For more information please contact:

CAL FIRE / Tuolumne County Fire Department Training Division
(209) 533-5118

Those who can...do.Those who can do more....VOLUNTEER!
-author unknown