Brigades
Information about volunteering
What can you do? Why do it? How do I join? What is my commitment?Information about volunteering
The NSW Rural Fire Service is one of the world’s largest volunteer emergency services and here in Gosford we have a long history of volunteers helping meet the emergency needs of our community.
In Gosford our volunteers are responsible for:
- All form of fire-fighting
- Assistance in natural disasters
- Public fire education
- Bushfire prevention
- Fire suppression at motor vehicle accidents
We work closely with other emergency services in these and a variety of other incidents both locally and in other areas if requested.
What can you do?
The Rural Fire Service is a volunteer organisation. It relies on people from all walks of life to give their time to become member of the service. The minimum age is 16 years and some brigades also have junior members aged 14 – 15 years.
Being a member of the Rural Fire Service is not just about fighting fires. There are a number of roles people can become a part of including in the areas of:
- Firefighting
- Catering
- Administration
- Fund raising
- Equipment maintenance
- Logistical Support
- Radio Communication
- Bulk Water Support
- Operational Support
- Trail Bike Support
- Air base operations
- Community education
Every volunteer is given structured training to ensure the safest possible work environment and encourages members to work within their own comfort levels.
Why do it?
When you talk to any RFS volunteer they will tell you the camaraderie and sense of community is unparalleled. Working side by side with other volunteers you will soon develop friendships with others from all walks of life but with a common interest. Many even call their fellow brigade members their ‘second family’. You will find that in your brigade there is a real sense of belonging that rarely can be found outside the Service.
Added to the friendships are the new and valuable skills you will learn which will assist you in your day to day life and in your workplace. Skills that include First Aid certificate, advance driving techniques, using chainsaws and specialist communication skills.
How do I join?
You join by simply contacting your local brigade.
In Gosford we have 20 fire-fighting brigades based from the Hawkesbury River to Narara, from the Beach to Spencer and everywhere in between.
In addition to the fire-fighting brigades there are 7 support units or brigades based at the Emergancy Operations Centre at Kariong.
Each brigade has membership application forms and lots of people willing to show you around and welcome you.
What is my commitment?
As a new member you will be asked to undertake the Basic Firefighter course (BF) if you want to be involved in any firefighting activities. This introductory course ensures that even if you do not attend any incidents, you will have an understanding of the firefighting operations and be able to support firefighters in safely conducting emergency activities.
As a firefighter you will be asked to attend the brigade station for regular activities such as meetings, training and equipment maintenance.
Depending on your personal circumstances this can be as much or as little time as you can manage. The more you are involved naturally the more your skills and knowledge will develop.
For more information drop in to see your local brigade or contact us.
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