Serving as a volunteer firefighter, or EMT, can be a most rewarding experience. The satisfaction of helping others and the exciting training are unparalleled. We are also in need of support personnel if you feel you cannot meet the physical challenges of becoming an EMT or firefighter.
You need not have the desire or intent to perform actual firefighting or emergency medical duties, although there are always vacancies in these areas.
Membership is open to all residents of the La Madera Fire District response area [within 10 road miles of Station 28 at 826 Faith Drive, Sandia Park, NM 87047] who are willing to volunteer their time, energy, and resources to their community.
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, have a current New Mexico driver’s license and driving record that meets Sandoval County Fire Department requirements.
Sandoval County will provide and help with training requirements.
Who can be a volunteer firefighter or EMT?
If you have the desire to serve, you can be a volunteer firefighter or EMT. You don’t need any prior experience in the emergency services; you will receive the training you need when you join the department. Membership shall be open to all persons, of good character, regardless of race, sex or national origin, who reside or work within the fire district boundaries, or who reside in other communities but within ten (10) road miles of Station 28. Applicants must be able and willing to answer alarms and attend meetings and training sessions of the department.
What are the benefits of being a volunteer firefighter or EMT?
Volunteer first responders help their fellow citizens in times of need. Volunteers enjoy a sense of accomplishment, achievement, and pride in the work they do. In addition, volunteers get to learn new skills, make new friends, be a part of a team, give back to their community, and make a real difference.
What is the age requirement to join?
We have a minimum age requirement of 18 for active members, there is no maximum age limit for volunteers.
What kind of training do I need?
The time investment in training depends on the level of training and certifications you are interested in. We arrange for volunteer personnel to receive all required training at no cost to the individual. In general, volunteers may be asked to complete certification training for one or more of the following: Firefighter I, Firefighter II, Emergency Medical Responder, Emergency Medical Technician, Paramedic, Hazmat Awareness, Hazmat Operations, Traffic Incident Management, Wildland Firefighter.
What are the qualifications?
There are no fitness requirements for support members. Operational members should be relatively fit, (being able to run up a couple flights of stairs without getting winded) and able to lift at least 45 pounds. We will provide you with the training you need to operate safely on emergency scenes as well as all of the proper equipment. Certain positions, such as firefighter are more physically demanding and will require different qualifications, such as an annual physical and physical aptitude test. A volunteer who wants to be a wildland firefighter will have to complete a Pack Test (PT) to obtain the required Red Card for wildland firefighting.
What will I do as a volunteer?
Depending on your availability, interest, the training you receive, and the department’s needs, you may be asked to do some of the following:
- Fire Suppression
- Emergency Medical Services
- Search and Rescue
- Traffic Incident Management (TIM) and Highway Safety
- Public Information and Education
- Public Events
Do I have to pass a background check in order to join?
Yes. All applicants must successfully pass a background investigation.
How can I juggle my school or work schedule and still meet the monthly minimum participation requirements?
All training classes are held on nights and weekends, in recognition of the fact that many volunteers have other commitments in addition to volunteering. Once qualified, there are many opportunities for volunteers to meet the minimum participation requirements.
What if I can’t make every call?
That’s ok! When you interview for a position we will discuss your normal availability. We know everyone can’t make every call. Do your best to participate. If you are going to be away or your availability is changing due to family or work needs, please just let us know.