Ways to Volunteer with the Spotsylvania Volunteer Fire Department (SVFD)
Save Lives
By joining SVFD as a first responder, you will have the incredible opportunity to directly save lives. Our comprehensive training equips you with the skills necessary to confidently respond to emergencies and protect your neighbors in critical moments. With your bravery and knowledge, you'll become an essential part of keeping our community safe.
Protect Your Community
Volunteering with SVFD also means playing a key role in fire prevention and education. Our volunteers engage with the community through events, demonstrations, and educational programs, where you can help raise awareness about fire safety in fun and interactive ways. You’ll enjoy interacting with both adults and children as you represent SVFD and share your knowledge as a first responder.
Free Training & Gear
SVFD offers all volunteers free, professional training to meet the required certifications, along with the necessary gear and equipment. You’ll be fully prepared to handle any situation with confidence and expertise, knowing you're backed by the best resources and training available.
Ways to Volunteer - Membership Types
At SVFD, there are multiple ways to get involved, each with its own unique role. After joining, all members begin with a 90-day Probationary Period, during which they’ll complete a probationary packet and receive a recommendation for full membership. Here are the different ways you can serve:
Certified Fire Member
Eligibility: 18+ years old with the required certifications meeting Spotsylvania County's minimum training standards.
Duties: Certified Fire Members are responsible for responding to emergency calls, fulfilling monthly duty hours, and participating in community outreach events. All certified members must complete a third-person package with their Company Mentor and hold certifications as per the Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Management (FREM) Rules.
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Junior Member
Eligibility: Under 18 years old, committed to personal growth and community service.
Duties: Junior Members assist under appropriate supervision, contributing to department tasks and activities while learning about fire service. Junior members operate in accordance with the Code of Virginia and Spotsylvania County guidelines for youth volunteers.
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Recruit Member
Eligibility: Personnel training to become certified firefighters.
Duties: Recruit Members will undergo training to meet the minimum standards required for firefighter certification, including completing Firefighter I within 18 months of joining. This role is ideal for those who are passionate about becoming certified and contributing to fire service operations.
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Administrative Member
Eligibility: Personnel interested in supporting non-operational functions of SVFD.
Duties: Administrative Members provide essential behind-the-scenes support, handling tasks like office assistance, managing public relations, and organizing educational activities.
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Auxiliary Member
Eligibility: Personnel dedicated to supporting operational members.
Duties: Auxiliary Members are responsible for on-scene support, such as providing food and water during extended incidents. They also assist with organizing events, fundraisers, and supporting the morale and welfare of the fire department.
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Application Process
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Submit Application
Complete the online application form. Additional information will be gathered as needed.
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Driving Record Review
SVFD will process your driving record within 1–2 days.
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Interview & Drug Screening
After the driving record review, you will be contacted to schedule an interview and drug screening.
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Fingerprinting & Background Check
Schedule and complete fingerprinting and background checks, typically taking 7–12 days.
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Final Approval
After successfully completing the screening, your application will be reviewed by Spotsylvania Fire, Rescue & Emergency Management for final approval.
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Orientation
Upon approval, you will be scheduled for orientation and start your journey as a valued member of SVFD.
All training, uniforms, and gear are provided free of charge. Volunteers also receive access to high-speed internet, fitness facilities, credit union benefits, and personal property tax exemptions.
Lifelong Friendships
When you volunteer with SVFD, you become part of a close-knit team. Firefighters depend on one another in life-threatening situations, and the bonds formed through this experience often last a lifetime. You'll work alongside people who are passionate about helping others and form friendships that go beyond the firehouse.
Join us today and make a lasting impact in your community!
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