What do volunteers do?
There are all sorts of positions that volunteers are needed to fill. These range from fire fighting and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to administrative duties and Ladies Auxiliary. By becoming a volunteer you will be providing the community with an invaluable service.

With the proper training you would be able to participate in:
· fire suppression
· rescue of victims trapped by fire or motor vehicle accidents
· treatment and transport of victims experiencing medical or traumatic emergencies
· driving and maintaining emergency vehicles
· providing various public assistance, inspection, investigation, and educational services

What types of people volunteer?
Our volunteers come from many walks of life. We have college and high school students, professionals, and homemakers that take time from their busy lives to give back to the community by volunteering their services at GVFD. In fact the more diverse our members backgrounds are, the stronger our organization becomes.

What are the benefits?
· Free Training
· Helping out the community
· Live-in program
· University of Maryland college credit in Fire Science curriculum*
· $3500 Maryland income tax credit*
· Pension after 25 years active service*
· New Friends and Fire Department Family
*These benefits have certain state-mandated qualifying restrictions

What kind of training will I receive?
As a riding member you will be required to be trained in and maintain certain certifications. This training is available free of charge through the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute (MFRI).

The initial requirement is to complete the Volunteer Recruit School (VRS). This covers the basics of the fire department, CPR certification, infectious control class, and HAZMAT awareness.

Further training is then in either EMT-Basic or Firefighter I class. These two basic classes both last approximately 4 months when meeting two nights a week and some weekend days. In addition to these classes, basic training and skill maintenance drills are run at the GVFD station. More advanced classes can be taken if the member is interested.

What is the time commitment I need to make?
All riding members are held to a standard of points. Points are earned by attending meetings, attending training, standing by at the station, and running calls. Each riding member is assigned to a duty crew. These duty crews meet every other weekend, either Friday or Saturday. Duty crew shifts are from 7 PM to 7 AM and consist of fire house chores, drills and standing by at the station.

What are the qualification requirements?
In order to become a Firefighter or Emergency Medical Services Provider you must:
· Be at least 16 years old
· Submit to and pass a background investigation
· Pass a medical examination, including drug screening

What is the application process?
An application packet consists of a written application to the Prince Georges County Volunteer Fire Department and a fingerprint card for a background check. Upon approval of the application the applicant must submit to and pass a medical examination including drug screening and stress test. Finally to become a probationary member of GVFD the applicant must be voted in by the membership.

How long does it take?
This process can take up to 6 months depending on how busy the County is. Generally it takes about 4 months.

Who do I talk to about questions?
If you have more questions about becoming a volunteer you can e-mail GVFD at info@engine35.com or call the station at (301) 345-7000 or (301) 345-7353. When you call please ask for Captain Chris Ransom or any other officer available.

In addition, please feel free to stop by the station at any time for information, a tour or an application packet.