Become a Volunteer Firefighter

Courage. Commitment. Community.

Firefighters are at the heart of Abingdon Fire Company. As a volunteer firefighter, you’ll respond to emergencies of every kind — fires, vehicle collisions, medical calls, rescues, and severe weather incidents. With professional training provided at no cost, unmatched camaraderie, and the chance to make a lasting difference, this role challenges you to grow while serving your neighbors when they need it most.

Role Overview

As afirefighter with Abingdon Fire Company, you will:

  • Respond to fires, medical emergencies, rescues, and other emergency incidents.
  • Perform fire suppression, search and rescue, ventilation, and overhaul operations as part of a highly trained team.
  • Assist with patient care during medical emergencies, following state and local protocols.
  • Operate firefighting vehicles and equipment — from engines and ladders to pumps and power tools.
  • Conduct fire safety education, pre-incident surveys, and community outreach.
  • Maintain readiness by cleaning, inspecting, and performing minor repairs on apparatus, tools, and facilities.
  • Participate in regular training, drills, and continuing education.
A firefighter in full gear stands next to a burning car, with flames engulfing the open driver’s door and thick smoke rising from the fire.

Key Responsibilities

  • Remove individuals from dangerous or hazardous situations and provide immediate aid.
  • Suppress and extinguish fires safely and effectively.
  • Communicate clearly with your crew, command staff, and the public.
  • Support public safety through hydrant maintenance, inspections, and fire prevention education.
  • Complete required reports, forms, and documentation accurately.
  • Take part in company trainings, community events, and station activities.

Desired Attributes

The most successful firefighters bring not only strength and skill, but also character:

  • Good judgment and the ability to act decisively.
  • Clear and confident communication skills.
  • Ability to adapt in high-stress or emotionally charged situations.
  • Critical reasoning skills to solve problems under pressure.
  • A strong sense of motivation, teamwork, and service.

Physical Requirements

Firefighting is physically demanding. Candidates must be able to:

  • Operate tools, machinery, and emergency vehicles safely.
  • Lift, move, and carry equipment and patients — often exceeding 100 pounds.
  • Perform strenuous activity in hazardous and changing environments.
  • Meet the NFPA 1582 medical standards for occupational health, confirmed by a physician.

Training & Certification

All firefighter training is provided free of charge through the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute (MFRI) and in-house instruction. You’ll gain nationally recognized certifications in firefighting essentials, rescue techniques, and emergency operations, with ongoing training to keep your skills sharp.

Why Serve as an EMT?

  • Learn life-saving skills and emergency response techniques.
  • Gain nationally recognized certifications at no cost.
  • Experience the pride of serving your community when it matters most.
  • Build leadership, confidence, and resilience that carry over into every part of life.
  • Be part of a family — both inside the firehouse and across the fire service.

Ready to Step Up?

Join Abingdon Fire Company as a volunteer firefighter and help protect the lives, property, and future of our community.