SO, YOU WANT TO BE A FIREFIGHTER? GREAT!!!

The heart of the Western Reserve Joint Fire District is it's Volunteer Firefighters and Emergency Medical Responders. Our department is 100% volunteer.

There are no full-time firefighters at the stations waiting to answer the call, only the volunteers.

Being a Volunteer Firefighter or Emergency Medical Responder is not for everyone... but if it is for you, it can be one of the most rewarding experiences in your life!

In order to help you decide if becoming a Volunteer is right for you, here are some common questions and answers:

Q - What are the requirements?
A - All applicants must be 18 years of age. *If you are between the ages of 16 and 18 contact us about our cadet program! Applicants must pass a pre-employment physical examination paid for by the department. In addition, a physical agility test may be performed in order to determine your ability to perform basic firefighting functions. Applicants must pass a pre-employment background/criminal history check. Applicants must not have any felony convictions. Applicants must hold a valid Ohio Drivers License and posses a good driving record.

Q - How do I see what it is all about?
A - The department holds drills every Tuesday evening starting at 7 P.M. - Please feel free to stop in, say hello and ask questions!

Q - What if I am at work when there is a call.. Do I have to go?
A - If you are unable to respond to a call, for any reason, then you are unable to respond. There are no requirements for you to go. If you can go, Great... If not it's OK!

Q - What if I am at a family function or other event when there is a call.. Do I have to go?
A - If you are unable to respond to a call, for any reason, then you are unable to respond. There are no requirements for you to go. If you can go, Great... If not it's OK!

Q - My employer would fire me if I was late or missed work because I was on a call. What would happen then?
A - If you are late for or miss work because you were on an emergency call your employer can NOT fire you. It's the law! Once you are a member of the department you will receive information about this law and how it affects you and your employer.

Q - Do I have to go on emergency medical calls?
A - NO, Only those members that wish to be involved in Emergency Medical Services respond to medical calls (except auto-accidents)

Q - Is there any compensation at all?
A - All volunteers are paid semiannually on a per-call/per-drill basis.

Q - I don't know anything about firefighting, how am I going to cover the cost of the training?
A - Once you become a member of the department all required training fees are paid for by the department.

Q - Is it all drills, calls and work?
A - NO! Our department members also form The Poland Fireman's Association. The Association is our fun and brotherhood. We are involved in numerous activities throughout the year like picnics, golf outings, fund raisers and public events.

Q - My spouse wouldn't want me to just leave him/her home for hours if there is a big call! How could he/she be involved?
A - The Poland Fire Department Auxiliary is a social and support group consisting of the firefighter's spouses. They hold regular social meetings and provide support to the firefighters during major events (water, soft drinks and food!!!).