Pre-Service Firefighter Volunteer Student Placement Application Form 

Complete applications will be received on an ongoing basis. 

General Information and Requirements for Applicants

1. Applications shall be completed in full, signed and may include a resume. Applications are confidential when completed.
2. Students must be currently enrolled in a pre-service firefighter educational program or other approved fire education program.
3. Preference may be given to those students who live closest to the fire station.
4. Selected students will be required to participate in an interview.
   • Students who qualify on the interview may be given a physical ability test.
5. Students selected for the position must agree to comply with the training requirements of the department.
6. Selected students must provide the following completed documents:
   1. Medical Clearance Form – up to $25 reimbursement is available; student may also submit a previously completed medical form indicating that they are fit for duty or DZ medical form providing they were completed by a medical professional within 6 months of this application.
   2. Current driver’s licence abstract
   3. Satisfactory Vulnerable Sector Check
7. Successful students will volunteer their time to gain experience. This is a temporary position and is intended for the student while they are in their educational program.
8. If the student drops out of the pre-service educational program, the placement is immediately terminated.
9. During the placement, students will be subject to evaluation by the department officers.
10. The student must comply with the Establishing and Regulating By-Law, Operation Guidelines and Policies and follow the instructions of the Department Officers.
11. Failing any requirement may result in the student dismissal.
12. CSA approved work boots are required (not supplied).

Firefighter Recruit Job Description

This Job Description forms part of Employment Guidelines.

Position Title: Pre-Service Firefighter Volunteer Student
Department: Fire and Emergency Services
Reports to: Captain of Assigned Station Area
Supervises: None

Position Summary

The Pre-Service Firefighter Volunteer Student (referred to as “the student”) is responsible for ensuring that they work in the safest manner possible at all times. The student position is designed specifically for a student enrolled in a Pre-Service Firefighting program at a post-secondary college.

The student role is a supportive role. No task shall be taken on that would exceed the level of completed training, under the direction of a supervisor.

The student shall submit a course outline to DDFS fire administration immediately upon acceptance to the DDFS pre-service firefighter volunteer student placement. 

If a student is unsuccessful at meeting the practical sign-offs of their course, or is no longer a student of the pre-service firefighter program, the Douro-Dummer Fire Services (DDFS) Fire Chief shall be immediately notified.

Statement of Duties (including but not limited to):

• Operate in a manner consistent with established procedures and accepted firefighting methods;
• Respond and participate as assigned to the level trained and in the delivery of approved fire protection services;
• Advise assigned Captain or District Chief of any noted deficiencies pertaining to apparatus, equipment and stations;
• Responsible to assist in the care, maintenance and cleaning of the assigned apparatus within the station, including the apparatus bays and the interior and exterior of the building;
• Attend training and meetings as scheduled and/or requested;
• Work in compliance the Occupational Health and Safety Act, WHMIS, applicable legislation, regulations, statutes, departmental policies/procedures/practices, operational guidelines, and perform safe work practices;
• Represent the fire department in a professional manner.

Distinguishing Features of the Rank

This is labour intensive work, operating in a team environment under the direction of supervisory staff members. The work is done in accordance with established Policies, Best Practices, Occupational Health and Safety Act, and requires the exercise of good judgment in emergency situations.

The student shall only respond to emergencies after approval has been given. The student will then only carry out supportive roles at an emergency and only if directed to do so by a supervisor on scene.

Experience and Training

It is understood that students may be at different points in their pre-service fire courses, but that they are in the process of learning the necessary skills and knowledge to become a firefighter; as such, it is expected that the student shall:

• Be engaged in recruit level training for Firefighter I and II, as well as required medical first aid training.
• Actively attend required training sessions and be a member in good standing.
• Understand and adhere to the department command structure.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• To be assessed through an interview and references.
• Assignments to be given based on achieved training levels.
• Learn and obtain knowledge of modern firefighting and fire prevention methods, rescue and first aid procedures, rules, and equipment.
• Learn and obtain knowledge and skill in the safe operation of all types of fire and emergency vehicles, equipment, and safety and protective devices.
• Learn and obtain knowledge of the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997; Ontario Fire Code; Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act; Occupational Health and Safety Act; WHMIS; Ministry of Labour Safety Guidelines (Section 21); Fire Marshal’s Guidelines and pertinent Municipal By-Laws and Services in general.
• Possess a strong sense of public service; strong interpersonal and public relations skills.

Examples of Work (including but not limited to):

• Attend all necessary training to obtain the knowledge and practical experience to successfully carry out the duties of a firefighter.
• Respond to alarms - after approval has been granted;
• Carry out duties assigned by supervisory staff;
• Carry out support roles only;
• Operate in a safe and courteous manner;
• Any other duties as assigned by Fire Chief, Deputy Fire Chief, District Chief or Captain.

Working Conditions

The student may be required to work in all types of weather and less than ideal conditions, both from natural and man-made elements. They may have to respond to hazardous atmospheres and areas dependent on the level of training and approval of their commanding officer, and will be expected to work in a safe manner.

General Applicant Information

Pre-Service Firefighter Education Information 

You must be currently enrolled in a pre-service firefighter program to be eligible for the pre-service firefighter volunteer student placement.