Submitted by Orcas Island Fire and Rescue

Orcas Island Fire and Rescue is seeking candidates to join the volunteer ranks. All are invited to apply for the upcoming Volunteer Fire Academy starting Jan. 6, 2024.

At the end of the academy, graduates will be fully qualified structure and wildland firefighters. The deadline for this round of applications is Nov. 11, 2023.

The 2024 Winter Fire Academy will be a hybrid class with hands-on skills on weekends (both Saturday and Sunday) and two Thursday nights per month beginning in January.

Online training and some certifications may take place in November and December. The academy is estimated to be completed at the end of March. The first and third Thursday nights will be skills training with our current volunteers and staff!

Various paths to certification will be considered, especially if you only want to be a Wildland Firefighter. OIFR first responders may also learn to be proficient in Technical Rescue (which includes rope rescue, vehicle rescue or search and rescue), Apparatus Operator/Engineering, or become EMTs. We will accept applications and work on a path that is right for everyone.

The benefits of becoming a volunteer firefighter include helping your neighbors, social activities sponsored by the Volunteer FF/EMT Association, BVFF pension, medical reimbursement, access to a group healthcare insurance policy, annual wellness review with the medical director, physical fitness goals, camaraderie and community!

More information can be found at www.orcasfire.org or by emailing info@orcasfire.org.

Visit the Eastsound Firehall M-F 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to pick up an application packet and learn more!