How to Become a Volunteer Firefighter in South Carolina

Becoming a volunteer firefighter is a rewarding experience.

The fire departments of South Carolina, as with many others around the country, rely on the devotion and sacrifices made by volunteer firefighters. Volunteer firefighters come from all walks of life and can range from students to recent retirees who want to give something back to their community. Becoming a volunteer firefighter in South Carolina is a process that takes time and dedication.

Instructions

1. Ensure that you pass the standard qualifications for a volunteer firefighter in South Carolina. All South Carolina volunteer firefighters must be over 18, have a valid driver’s license, be legally allowed to work in the United States and be able to pass a basic criminal background check. Failure to pass any of these qualifications will lead to disqualification.

2. Contact your local fire department and ask for an application form. Go to the South Carolina State Firefighters Association's website (scfirefighters.org) to obtain a comprehensive list of fire departments in your vicinity.

3. Complete the application form and return it to your local fire department. Submit to a background check. Receive the results of the background check, and if you have passed, wait to be interviewed. Become accepted as a provisional volunteer firefighter.

4. Complete the mandatory training as volunteer firefighters in South Carolina are not permitted to battle fires or undertake duties before basic training is completed. Some fire departments conduct the training with in-person classes; others do so via computer classes that allow the volunteer firefighter to train at his own pace.

References

• Become a South Carolina Volunteer Firefighter
• South Carolina State Firefighters Association