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Volunteer

McLane Black Lake Fire Department (MBLFD) is a combination department with career and volunteer personnel working together to provide outstanding service to the citizens we protect.  As a volunteer firefighter, you will become an important part of our response team.​

Volunteer Firefighter Academy

The Volunteer Firefighter Academy provides new firefighters with the basic knowledge and skills to perform safely on the fireground. The Volunteer Fire Academy is IFSAC accredited and curriculum objectives meet the requirements of the Washington State Basic Firefighter I Training Program.  

What is the Purpose of the Academy?

The recruit academy prepares students for the fireground by providing classroom and drill ground training in all primary fire service topics, including fire behavior, fire suppression, water supply, ventilation, search and rescue, overhaul, salvage, and fire scene evidence protection.

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Firefighter recruits receive instruction in the use of all firefighter tools and equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE), and self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).  The academy runs for four months with classes held weekly on Tuesday and Thursday nights with skills days on Saturdays.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Will I receive payment for my time?
    No. As a volunteer you are donating your time to the community.  As an incentive however, you will receive annual reimbursements for the calls and drills you attend and per diem for the time you spend on shift.
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  2. What night will I be required to drill?
    Most training can occur while you are on your regularly scheduled shift.  Additional training may be provided to assure all members have multiple opportunities to complete training requirements.
     

  3. After initial training, how much time will I spend at the fire department?
    You will be asked for 36 hours of participation a month.  In addition, all annual and quarterly training requirements must be fulfilled.
     

  4. What will I have to pay for or provide if I volunteer?
    The only thing you will need to provide are your personal leather safety boots.  The district will provide everything else.
     

  5. Can I volunteer if I work nights?
    Yes, we have flexibility to adapt to a variety of schedules.
     

  6. How will I know when I'm needed and where to go?
    Most people receive response information to their cell phone via Active911.
     

  7. Who provides insurance coverage while I'm on duty?
    Washington State Board of Volunteer Firefighters provides all insurance coverage for volunteers while they are training, responding or participating in any district sponsored activity.  This insurance coverage includes limited reimbursement for loss of pay and a line of duty death benefit.

Interested in a Career in the Fire Service?

Many individuals who enroll in the academy are searching for a career in the fire service as a full time paid firefighter. They enroll in the academy to gain the initial training that will lead them down that path through ongoing training and certification with their sponsoring agency. They gain volunteer experience with their district in order to learn the profession.

Ready to Apply?

Contact Us for an application!

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Following the application process (written test, oral interview, background check, physical agility test and medical physical), the successful Volunteer Firefighter Candidate begins orientation and basic training in the Volunteer Recruit Academy.  McLane Black Lake Fire Department provides all necessary personal protective equipment which remains the property of the district.  Medical insurance is provided by the Washington State Board for Volunteer Firefighters. Firefighting is not for everyone. It takes more than just a desire to help people. It requires courage, dedication, and assertiveness.

 

The McLane Black Lake Fire Department is always looking for individuals who want to serve their community! 

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