Seeking volunteer firefighters
by Shad Cooper, Fire Chief, Sublette County Unified Fire
December 5, 2023
Sublette County Unified Fire is currently recruiting volunteer firefighters. Each of the six fire stations in Sublette County are staffed with dedicated volunteers who take their responsibility seriously. Imagine if there was no one available to help when someone calls 911 to report an emergency. That is why it is so important to recruit volunteer firefighters and help protect our neighbors and communities when it is most needed.
Volunteer firefighters come in all shapes, sizes, ages, and genders. There are men and women of all ages who volunteer in a variety of roles. Retirees, teachers, industrial workers, business owners, health care workers, retail sales workers, laborers, administrative professionals, ranchers, students, and many other professions are represented on the fire department. We have several members who have retired from their careers and joined the fire department as a means to stay active in the community. We also have several junior firefighter cadets who gain valuable experience and learn about civic responsibility. Everyone has skills that are important and beneficial as a volunteer firefighter.
Sublette County Unified Fire responds to far more than just house fires. We also answer calls for motor vehicle accidents, wildland fires, hazardous materials incidents, specialized rescues, serious medical accidents, and many other types of emergencies as well. Many of our volunteers appreciate the community involvement and the opportunity to engage in rewarding activities like school presentations, parades, and fireworks displays. Other volunteers like the camaraderie and friendship in the fire department. Others may like belonging to something important with rich history and traditions. Many others volunteer for personal fulfillment and sense of self-worth. Still other firefighters may like the excitement of helping during an emergency. Whatever the reason, there is something for everyone at the fire station.
Anyone who is interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter can fill out an application and enroll in the upcoming firefighter recruit academy. The recruit academy starts in early January and provides new recruits with the necessary basic knowledge and hands-on training to be safe while responding to emergencies. As part of the academy, firefighters will learn about things like fire behavior, suppression, hoses & nozzles, ropes & knots, ladders, extinguishers, rescue tools, technical rescue skills, and fire investigations. The recruit academy is designed to work around the schedules of the volunteer firefighters so it doesn’t conflict with work schedules or family activities.
For more information about becoming a member of the fire department, please contact the administrative offices of Sublette County Unified Fire at 307-367-4550. We are happy to answer any questions from anyone interested in joining.
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