How old do I need to be in order to join?

Applicants must be eighteen years old or older and possess a high school diploma or GED. If the applicant is still in high school at the age of eighteen, the applicant may apply and be eligible for appointment so long as he or she remains in high school. An applicant who is twenty-five years of age or older and who does not have a high school diploma or GED shall be reviewed individually by the Town Manager or his or her Designee(s). Such an applicant may receive a waiver from the requirement for a high school diploma or GED.

Do I need to live in Farmington in order to join?

No. All applicants living within 5 driving miles of the station are considered. In that we are situated closely to New Britain and West Hartford, we have a large contingent of our membership from those communities. As a matter of fact some of our officers reside in both New Britain and West Hartford.

What type of experience do I need in order to join?

No experience is necessary, just a desire to help and a willingness to learn.

Are there any entry tests I have to take to join?

There are no verbal or written exams necessary to join.  Each new applicant is required to have a passed a physical and criminal background check as part of the membership application process.

Is training provided?

Yes, all new members are required to complete a State of Connecticut Fire Fighter One Course or an Emergency Medical Technician Course within two (2) years of appointment. The department also provides a new member orientation seminar periodically. This training covers an overview of the department, rules and regulations, department by-laws, department operating guidelines, Town wide Fire Department Directives, safety, and other introductory information. All initial training is provided at no cost to the member.

Does my training stop once I complete the initial FFI or EMT class?

No, training is ongoing throughout the length of your membership. There are minimum annual training requirements that you are required to meet in order to maintain yourself as a FF or EMT. The department provides ongoing monthly training with drills on the first and third Tuesday of the month beginning @ 6:45 pm. In addition there special weekend classes (generally once a quarter) provided by the department and classes offered outside the department (days, nights and weekends) that you can take (most of which the Town will pay for you).

What time requirements do I have to commit to?

Members of the fire department meet once a month (First Tuesday @ 8:00 p.m.).  Each member is required to attend 50% of the department meetings over the course of a year to remain an active member in good standing. In addition members are placed on department committees and meet periodically. Those meetings are less frequent and generally scheduled by at a convenient time for each committee.

What if I can't get time off from work to go to calls?

If you work in or around town, some employers may be receptive to letting you go to calls during your working schedule, however these types of arrangements are strictly set up by the individual and his/her employer.  The East Farmington Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. can not and does not require an employer to allow employees to leave for emergency calls.  Most department members only respond to calls outside of their normal work hours.  As we have (and are looking for) members that work different shifts, we maintain coverage around the clock.

How often do emergency calls come in?

Emergency calls are not "scheduled" like weekly drills and meetings.  The amount of calls varies by day, week and month.  Typically the department averages around 100 calls per month. It is understood that members can not make every call. The department by-laws require that members attend 10% or greater of the calls in a given year to remain as an active member in good standing. All members are encouraged to attend as many calls as possible when they are available.