The East Fork Fire and Paramedic Districts are putting out the call for anyone interested in becoming a volunteer. There is a need throughout the entire Carson Valley - from Topaz Ranch to Indian Hills.
Bob Spellberg, district manager of the Gardnerville Ranchos General Improvement District and also the Ranchos Fire Station 7 volunteer chief, explained that the volunteer training program is free.
"It's a great way to serve your community and is a wonderful stepping stone if you're looking for career opportunities," he said.
Anyone age 18 and older is eligible to apply. Applications should be submitted to the fire station closest to where a prospective volunteer lives. A background check is run, followed by a physical examination. At that point, volunteers receive equipment such as coats, hats, pants and gloves, which are necessary to complete their training for both structure fires and wildland fires.
Once the preliminary checks are passed, training begins. Volunteers receive comprehensive instruction in entry-level firefighting, hazardous materials, Emergency Medical Services and wildland fires. The sequence of training depends upon the rotation of courses and what is being offered at the time each volunteer is approved.
After successful completion of these four courses, volunteers become attack firefighters and are able to respond to fire calls.
In addition, there is a need for support personnel volunteers. These important folks perform tasks such as driving the fire trucks, maintaining equipment and assisting in firefighting efforts without approaching the "hot zone."
A cadet program is available for those aged 14-17. Cadets receive the same training as other volunteers, but are not eligible to go near "hot zones" until they reach age 18. Once a cadet turns 18 and has successfully completed all the levels of training required, they are placed at the firehouse closest to where they live.
Spellberg explained that the basic courses open the door to subsequent training such as extrication, operating a ladder truck and advanced life support. Successful completion of each course will earn credentials, which are important for anyone looking toward a career in firefighting and professional advancement.
"Firefighting is a competitive environment, so the more training you have, the better your chances are of being placed in a full-time job," said Spellberg.
Volunteers are located at 10 firehouses throughout the Valley: Station 2 in Gardnerville, 3 in Genoa, 4 in Topaz Ranch Estates, 5 in Topaz Lake, 6 in Johnson Lane, 7 in the Ranchos, 8 in Sheridan, 9 in Fish Springs, 10 in Ruhenstroth and 15 in Indian Hills.
Spellberg also notes that the Station 7 volunteers meet every Tuesday night at 7 p.m.
"Anyone is welcome to come to the meetings, maybe fill out an application. We'd like to get to know people who are interested," he said.
For more information, you can contact Bob Spellberg at the Ranchos Fire Station 7 in Gardnerville at 783-6470.
n Amy Roby can be reached by e-mail at RanchosRoundup@hotmail.com
