Frequently Asked Questions - Volunteer Membership

How old do you have to be to join?

• You must be at least 16 years old to join and attend training classes. Those under 18 must have written permission from a parent or guardian. Operational duties may be limited for those under 18 as required by law.

How often does United accept new members?

• We align our membership drives with class schedules to help move new members more efficiently through their initial required training. This allows us to bring new members in two- to four- times a year.

What is the process for becoming a member?

• To become a member, each applicant must:
  • Attend an open house event or contact the membership committee
  • Return a completed application and application fee
  • Meet with the membership committee for an in-person interview
  • Successfully pass a background investigation including criminal history verification
  • Have their application approved by a majority of current members in a general company meeting

• Upon approval of the membership application, probationary members must:
  • Pass a physical exam in accordance with National Fire Protection Association standards
  • Successfully complete company and county orientation programs
  • Complete foundational operational training
  • Attend company meetings and events
  • Comply with United Fire Company Standard Operating Procedures
  • Comply with the Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association Code of Conduct

How soon can I start riding along on the engine or ambulance?

• Our work can be very dangerous, so we want to ensure that every member is prepared for the situations we face. New recruits can expect to complete a Frederick County Gear Up orientation program before becoming eligible to ride along as an observer. Formal classes - Firefighter and Emergency Medical Technician - typically include an internship as part of the coursework, enabling recruits to get field experience while attending classes.

How long does it take to become a fully operational firefighter or EMT?

• Most recruits need 8 months to 1 year to complete all training, coursework, and testing to become fully operational in the field.  Requirements include successful completion of:
  • Frederick County Gear Up - 33 classroom hours
  • Hazardous Materials Operations - 36 classroom hours
  • Firefighter I - 135 classroom hours, OR Emergency Medical Technician - 204 classroom hours

What does a typical class schedule look like?

• Most classes are held 2 nights a week from 7pm to 10pm. Some classes also require weekend sessions from 8am to 3pm.

Do I have to pay to attend classes?

• Classes hosted by the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute (MFRI) are funded by our tax dollars and provided to volunteer members in good standing at no out-of-pocket cost. From the MFRI course catalog:

• Bona fide and insured members in good standing at Maryland state, county, and municipal departments providing ambulance, fire, and rescue services, who meet the minimum admission requirements
• Other students on a space-available basis upon payment of the registration fee for the program
• Industrial, Department of Defense, or other agencies requesting specific programs based on a fee for-service agreement?

Please visit https://www.mfri.org/ for complete information.

What if I already have fire or EMS training?

• If you have prior training and experience or are a member at another volunteer fire station in the State of Maryland, you may be able to become operational sooner. A company officer can help determine whether your training qualifies you as an operational volunteer.
• To determine credit for classes completed outside of MFRI or in other jurisdictions, please consult the MFRI course catalog for information about the Equivalency Challenge Program or contact the MFRI headquarters in College Park.

Are volunteers paid to train or respond to calls?

• No

Will becoming a volunteer help me obtain a paid position?

• It depends. Some jurisdictions give consideration to applicants with fire or EMS experience as a volunteer, some do not. Volunteer experience CAN help you better understand the demands of the job and decide if a career is right for you.

How can I find out more about becoming a member?

• Fill out this form to be contacted by our membership committee about becoming a member. We look forward to meeting you!