Volunteer Firefighter

At the Wilton Fire Department, being a volunteer isn't just about responding to emergencies—it's about showing up when people need you most. We're a 24/7, on-call department powered entirely by community members like you. Whether you're a student, full-time professional, or retiree, there's a place for you on our team. This is more than a department. It's a family built on service, strength, and shared purpose.

Volunteering with Wilton Fire is more than answering emergency calls—it's joining a team that feels like family. Our members come from all walks of life, balancing jobs, school, and family while stepping up to serve their neighbors. We train together, respond together, and support each other on and off the scene. From weekly drills and state-of-the-art equipment to potluck dinners and fitness nights, this is a place where service, camaraderie, and purpose come together.

Our expectations are manageable—especially if you're committed and consistent: 1 Truck Check per quarter, 4 Drills per quarter, 5 Calls per quarter, 1 Monthly Meeting, 1 Yearly physical Examination, 1 Annual Live Burn (Class A).

Volunteer Roles: Interior Firefighter - Fully trained to enter burning buildings using SCBA gear. Requires BEFO, IFO, HAZMAT, CPR, and ICS courses. Exterior Firefighter - Support on-scene operations outside hazardous areas. Training completed within two years—stipends available. Apparatus Operator - Drives and operates fire trucks and equipment. Many drivers are also trained firefighters, but it's not required to start. Support Firefighter - Help behind the scenes with events, education, and department operations. No emergency response required.

Member Benefits: Full turnout gear and PPE provided at no cost. Two full sets of gear, replaced before 10 years old. Access to state-of-the-art apparatus and tools. Free training through Saratoga County and NY State. NYS stipends available for some training. Weekly department drills (Tuesdays & Saturdays). Career development opportunities in emergency services. LOSAP Pension Program: Earn $30/month, up to $750/month when vested. Incentive Program: Up to $200/year in Amazon gift cards. NYS Volunteer Firefighter Tax Credit: Up to $200/year. Two on-site fitness centers with 24/7 access. Weekly group fitness classes (open to family members). Annual physical exam provided. Functional fitness training for responder readiness. Mental health roundtable every 6 weeks. Access to Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Supportive leadership and peer network. Department apparel and SWAG: shirts, hats, bags, etc. Monthly social events and annual firefighter banquet. Discounts via ID.me for retail, travel, and more. Insurance coverage for certain service-related cancers. Some insurance and mortgage providers offer discounts to firefighters.

To be considered an active firefighter with the Wilton Fire Department, all members must complete the Basic Exterior Firefighting Operations (BEFO) course. For those who wish to operate inside burning structures and participate in interior fire suppression efforts, completion of the Interior Firefighting Operations (IFO) course is required. Both courses are taught by New York State-certified fire instructors and are provided at no cost to you. BEFO Course: 79 hours. IFO Course: 49 hours (BEFO is a prerequisite). Courses are typically scheduled in the evenings and on weekends to accommodate work and family commitments.

All new members serve a 6-month probationary period, during which they participate in training, attend department meetings, and become familiar with our operations and culture before being granted full active status.

There is no set hourly requirement. Members respond to calls when available, attend training as often as possible, and participate in department events and meetings when they can. Every contribution is appreciated.

Apply online with a browser-based form OR download, fill out, and email to contact@wiltonfiredistrict.org

Requirements: BEFO (Basic Exterior Firefighting Operations) course required for all active firefighters; IFO (Interior Firefighting Operations) course required for interior firefighters; CPR, HAZMAT, ICS courses; 6-month probationary period; physical fitness requirement (fitness support provided); willingness to respond to emergency calls

Application Deadline: Continuous