Operational members provide service at the scene of an emergency

Operational Training Process

After submitting an application and being approved by the organization you become covered under our insurance and are able to participate in station activities and training. However, in order to ride on the equipment and respond to emergencies, you must complete four steps:

Physical: Applicants need to pass a complete physical exam, provided through the Public Health Office of Fairfax County. This exam should be scheduled as early as possible.

Volunteer In Station Training (VISIT): Station orientation consisting of two classes which include written and practical exams.

Level I Training: This is additional training provided at the Fairfax County Fire & Rescue Academy. The series of these classes are offered every other month, and take about three weeks to complete. The classes meet twice a week (currently on Tuesdays and Thursdays) with an occasional Saturday or Sunday.

HIPPA training and qualification: Independent on-line study course requiring 4 hours of study multiple examinations.

After completing these four items, you may ride as a "Volunteer Recruit" on Emergency Response Vehicles. The primary role of recruits is to observe the emergency operations and learn. With time, the Recruits may be asked to participate at the scene, but should not take action without direction. The next step is to take EMT Basic class.

EMT-Basic: This is a four month class that meets at the Fairfax County Fire & Rescue Academy. If you already have a Virginia State EMT from another source, you don't need to take this class, but you should make sure you learn Fairfax County's EMS protocols.

Virginia Emergency Vehicle Operator's Course (VEVOC): This consists of two days of classroom instruction with a written exam. Approximately 3 weeks after passing the written exam you will take a practical driving exam. The exam will be either on an ambulance or a fire engine.

In order to participate as a "Minimum-Staffing" qualified firefighter you need to complete NFPA Firefighter I/II which is a 6 month course. Classes are on most Tuesday and Thursday evenings, and many Saturdays and/or Sundays.

As you can see, the requirements for becoming an EMS care provider or Firefighter require a substantial amount of time and effort. You can expect that it will take you one year to become an EMT, and two to three years to become a Firefighter. Applicants should consider the amount of dedication they have and how likely it is that they will be in the area for five to ten years.

Request and application now!