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Paid on-call / paid call Volunteer Fire Fighter / EMS worker
Mapleton Fire Dept
125 W 400 N
Mapleton, UT 84664
801-489-5655
Description
Mapleton City Fire Department is an ISO Class 3 combination Full time, Part time and Paid on-call / Paid call Volunteer Fire Department. We are an all risk Fire and Rescue Department, proudly providing Fire Protection as well as Advanced Life Support EMS to the community of Mapleton Utah.
Volunteer Category: Firefighter, EMT
Requirements
Fire / EMS Volunteerism nationwide is declining at an alarming rate and in Mapleton we too are being affected. We need Paid on-call and Paid call Volunteer Fire Fighters / EMS workers, especially those who live in Mapleton. It’s a fun and rewarding opportunity with compensation and training provided.
The Mapleton Fire Department is taking applications for Paid On-call / Paid Call Volunteer Fire Fighters and Ems Workers.
Contact the Mapleton City Offices for an application at 801-489-5655 ext. 0 or at 125 West 400 North.
General Info:
How does the Mapleton Fire Department operate?
The Mapleton City Fire Department is a combined Fire and EMS agency. It is managed by a full time Fire Chief and Full time Fire Captain Paramedic Coordinator. The department consists of a combination of full time, part time, and paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighters/EMTs.
Paid on-call volunteers are provided a nominal fee for their sacrifice and depending on certification may receive up to $60 a 12 hour shift responding from home. On-call volunteers during their shift have 5 minutes to get to the station to respond to a call. Paid on-call volunteers are also compensated for time at training.
Paid call volunteers don’t work a specific shift and are provided a nominal fee for their sacrifice when they respond to a call. Paid call volunteers are paid when they answer a page for an emergency and while attending training.
How does a paid on-call / paid call Volunteer Fire and EMS department benefit Mapleton?
Mapleton and other small communities rely on paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighters primarily due to cost. Fires and other emergencies require a large number of personnel for fire suppression, rescues, medical care, traffic control, and so on. Mapleton staffs an Engine and Ambulance daily with a combination of full time, part time and paid on-call volunteers. Mapleton City relies on paid call volunteers to respond to larger incidents, such as fires and vehicle accidents. This system provides an adequate level of service while keeping costs down. While the paid call volunteer system has served Mapleton well for the last 70 years, its continued success will require citizens who are able and willing to serve.
Why should I become a paid on-call / paid call volunteer for the Mapleton Fire Department?
There are many reasons to consider becoming a paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighter or EMT:
• Learn or improve on valuable life skills
o Emergency medicine
o Defensive driving
o Fire suppression
o Ropes and knots
o Ladders
o Radio communications
o Building construction
• Develop critical thinking and decision making skills under pressure
• Create deeper ties to your community
• Become part of a closely knit brotherhood/sisterhood of first responders
• Enjoy regular events, such as dinners, parties, and BBQs
• Sense of pride and accomplishment that comes with helping members of your community
• Prepare for a full time / part time career in the fire service
What is the difference between a career and a paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighter or EMT?
Paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighters and EMTs are held to the same certification, training, competence and professionalism standards as their counterparts. They also are required to perform the same functions, all the way from performing an interior fire attack down to medial tasks such as washing the trucks.
The main difference is the manner in which they respond to emergencies. Career firefighters and EMTs are paid an hourly wage to be “response ready” at the station and are obligated to respond immediately to any emergencies while on duty. Paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighters and EMTs may also take on-call shifts, but paid on-call / paid call volunteers respond to emergencies from home on a voluntary basis and when available (hence the term “volunteer”).
How are paid on-call / paid call volunteers notified if there is an emergency?
Paid on-call / paid call volunteers are issued a special pager, which they carry with them. When the dispatcher receives a 911 call, they will transmit a tone to activate the pagers and relay the location and nature of the emergency. Paid on-call / paid call volunteers are expected to keep their pagers on at all times 24/7 when in town, so they can be notified of a call when it happens.
In addition to pagers, volunteers have the option to download an app to their phone. While not required, the app is useful for providing directions to the emergency and letting the incident commander know how many people are responding.
How physically fit do I need to be?
Being physically fit is an essential part of being a firefighter. You don’t have to be a professional athlete, but you should be in relatively good shape as the job is very physically demanding. Firefighters typically wear 60 to 70 pounds of gear during an incident and may have to lift, drag, or carry another person. Firefighters are also required to run, hike, crawl and stand for extended periods of time. Fire fighters and EMS workers are not allowed to have any facial hair that may interfere with the seal of a mask.
If this sounds like a challenge, consider a workout routine that incorporates the following:
• Cardio – Regular cardio helps keep your heart healthy and allows your body to manage oxygen more efficiently (very important when you want your air supply to last as long as possible)
• Strength – Regular weight training strengthens your muscles and reduces fatigue
• High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) – This type of exercise alternates periods of high intensity with short periods of rest, very similar to typical fire ground activity
How dangerous is it to be a firefighter?
Being a firefighter comes with a certain amount of risk. Approximately 100 firefighters die in the line of duty in the United States each year, and it is routinely ranked as one of the most hazardous professions in the country.
The good news is that most of these deaths are preventable. Nearly 75% of line of duty deaths are related to underlying medical conditions and traffic accidents and your personal risk decreases significantly with proper diet and exercise along with defensive driving and seatbelt use. You can also reduce your risk by becoming certified, taking care of your equipment and regularly participating in training.
Is there a ride-along program?
If you are an EMT in training or would simply like to learn more about the department, you may request a ride-along. Please contact Fire Captain Paramedic Coordinator Jeremy Millet (jmillet@mapleton.org) for more details.
What are some other opportunities to get involved?
While being a paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighter or EMT can be an immensely rewarding experience, it is not for everyone. If you would like to become involved in other ways, consider the following:
• Join the Mapleton community emergency response team (CERT)
• Donate equipment or supplies to the fire department
• Follow and share the Mapleton Fire Department Facebook page
Becoming a volunteer:
What are the responsibilities of a paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighter or EMT?
Volunteers have three primary responsibilities:
• Sign up for a min of 4 nights a month to be paid on-call from your home, stay in town, and respond to all emergencies when called within 5 minutes.
• Maintain a 35% response rate for paid call volunteer pages (pages when entire department is asked to respond)
• Attend weekly trainings and maintain certifications
Volunteers may also take part in other activities, such as conducting station tours, checking and maintaining equipment, or cleaning apparatus.
What are the requirements for becoming a paid on-call / paid call volunteer?
The minimum requirements to become a paid on-call / paid call volunteer for Mapleton Fire are:
• Be at least 18 years old
• Possess a valid driver’s license
• Maintain a clean driving / criminal and drug history
• Possess a basic EMT certification (for EMS volunteers)
Do I need to have any certifications or previous experience?
Paid on-call / paid call Volunteer EMTs should possess a current basic EMT certification or be on track to receive one. Advanced EMT, Paramedic, and/or fire certifications are preferred but not required. Many of our volunteers join with no previous experience and we send them through all required training.
Do I have to be both a firefighter and an EMT?
You may join as a firefighter, an EMT, or both. Candidates who are willing to fulfill both roles provide better value to the department and will likely be given preference.
A common route for volunteers is to obtain a basic EMT certification, join the department as an EMT, and then cross train as a firefighter during their probationary period.
Will I need to drive the vehicles?
Paid on-call / paid call volunteers are expected to hold a valid driver’s license and to drive ambulances and smaller apparatus, such as brush trucks and squad vehicles. Employees are provided in house training on emergency vehicle operations, including practical driving exercises.
The engines, tender, and heavy brush are larger and more complex than the smaller department vehicles and require a separate Apparatus Driver/Operation (ADO) certification. This training is offered to the more experienced firefighters.
Do I need to pay for a uniform and gear?
The department provides all turnout gear, helmets, safety equipment, shirts, pants, boots, hats, and cold weather clothing to all employees. Though not required, volunteers often choose to purchase additional gear for themselves, such as different pants, belt, boots etc.
Do I need to pay for training?
EMS paid on-call / paid call volunteers are expected to already have a basic EMT certification or be on track to receive one. Courses and certification typically cost around $1,000. In some cases the Department may sponsor your EMS training.
Basic fire certification typically cost around $5000. Mapleton City provides this training and certification free of cost to paid on-call / paid call volunteer fire fighters. Since this represents a significant investment by the city, you will be asked to sign an agreement to stay on the department for a period of time after any sponsored training is complete.
On occasion, the department may offer to place members through additional training to help meet a specific need (e.g. Advanced EMTs or Apparatus Driver/Operators). This additional training is also paid for by the department.
Life as a paid on-call / paid call volunteer
What happens after I join?
New paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighters are given the title of probationary firefighter and issued a set of gear. During this time, the new fire fighter will be expected to complete the following training and accompanying certifications:
• CPR
• Emergency vehicle operations
• Hazardous materials awareness and operations
• Firefighter I and II
This process can take from 6 to 12 months, depending on class scheduling and level of commitment. This is by far the most time consuming phase of being a firefighter. It is recommended for fire fighters to avoid major life changes during this time, in order to focus on this process. Once the probationary firefighter has passed all of their training, they will be evaluated and promoted to the title of paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighter.
How do new firefighters fit in?
Mapleton Fire welcomes new paid on-call / paid call volunteers and is invested in their success and continued participation. The department does not tolerate hazing or mistreatment of any staff.
However, be aware that trust and respect must be earned in the fire service. The lives of your fellow firefighters may someday depend on you, and they want to make sure you are up to the task. As a probationary firefighter, you will be assigned lower priority fire ground assignments and positions on the apparatus. You will also be evaluated during trainings and on emergency calls.
Use this time to focus on your certifications, ask questions of the more senior firefighters, and be as active in the department as possible. Before you know it, you will be a full certified firefighter and operating as a regular member of the crew.
What is fire training like?
Fire school is usually 4 hour blocks, 2 nights a week plus 8 hour blocks on Saturdays for about 4 months and often takes place in Mapleton or one of the neighboring fire departments. The training initially consists of lectures and bookwork but quickly transitions to practical skills and exercises.
Certification includes live fire training, where you will be able to observe an interior fire firsthand. This is an opportunity to learn how to operate in smoke and high heat and to learn about the limits of your gear.
The training culminates in a series of written and practical tests, including a live interior firefighting exercise. Once you pass, you will receive a Utah firefighter 1 and 2 certification. This certification meets or exceeds national standards and is accepted in most parts of the country.
How does being a paid on-call / paid call volunteer work with a full time job?
Being a paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighter is compatible with most full time careers. Training takes place on nights and weekends and most volunteers are able to meet their requirements by responding to calls outside of work hours.
Some companies provide flexibility to volunteer firefighters by allowing them to respond to calls during the workday. Be sure to check with your HR department on specific policies.
How does being a paid on-call / paid call volunteer work with family life?
Being a spouse or family member of a paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighter or EMT can be challenging. By their very nature, emergencies are unpredictable and often seem to happen during the most inconvenient times. The pager can and does sound during family dinners, holidays, and at night while you and your family are a sleep. Usually there is only time for a quick goodbye before the fire fighter is out the door, and they may not return for several hours. This is not typical of most family lifestyles, and it can take some time for families to adjust to the new “normal”.
On the other hand, there are many unique and positive opportunities for spouses and family members of volunteers. The fire department holds frequent events for members and their families. Children get to ride in the trucks during the city parade, meet Santa at the fire station, and participate in other activities that their friends can only dream about. In fact, some family members enjoy it so much, that they end up being volunteers too! In fact, Mapleton has several couples and families who serve together as volunteers.
The Mapleton Fire Department is taking applications for Paid On-call / Paid Call Volunteer Fire Fighters and Ems Workers.
Contact the Mapleton City Offices for an application at 801-489-5655 ext. 0 or at 125 West 400 North.
General Info:
How does the Mapleton Fire Department operate?
The Mapleton City Fire Department is a combined Fire and EMS agency. It is managed by a full time Fire Chief and Full time Fire Captain Paramedic Coordinator. The department consists of a combination of full time, part time, and paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighters/EMTs.
Paid on-call volunteers are provided a nominal fee for their sacrifice and depending on certification may receive up to $60 a 12 hour shift responding from home. On-call volunteers during their shift have 5 minutes to get to the station to respond to a call. Paid on-call volunteers are also compensated for time at training.
Paid call volunteers don’t work a specific shift and are provided a nominal fee for their sacrifice when they respond to a call. Paid call volunteers are paid when they answer a page for an emergency and while attending training.
How does a paid on-call / paid call Volunteer Fire and EMS department benefit Mapleton?
Mapleton and other small communities rely on paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighters primarily due to cost. Fires and other emergencies require a large number of personnel for fire suppression, rescues, medical care, traffic control, and so on. Mapleton staffs an Engine and Ambulance daily with a combination of full time, part time and paid on-call volunteers. Mapleton City relies on paid call volunteers to respond to larger incidents, such as fires and vehicle accidents. This system provides an adequate level of service while keeping costs down. While the paid call volunteer system has served Mapleton well for the last 70 years, its continued success will require citizens who are able and willing to serve.
Why should I become a paid on-call / paid call volunteer for the Mapleton Fire Department?
There are many reasons to consider becoming a paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighter or EMT:
• Learn or improve on valuable life skills
o Emergency medicine
o Defensive driving
o Fire suppression
o Ropes and knots
o Ladders
o Radio communications
o Building construction
• Develop critical thinking and decision making skills under pressure
• Create deeper ties to your community
• Become part of a closely knit brotherhood/sisterhood of first responders
• Enjoy regular events, such as dinners, parties, and BBQs
• Sense of pride and accomplishment that comes with helping members of your community
• Prepare for a full time / part time career in the fire service
What is the difference between a career and a paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighter or EMT?
Paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighters and EMTs are held to the same certification, training, competence and professionalism standards as their counterparts. They also are required to perform the same functions, all the way from performing an interior fire attack down to medial tasks such as washing the trucks.
The main difference is the manner in which they respond to emergencies. Career firefighters and EMTs are paid an hourly wage to be “response ready” at the station and are obligated to respond immediately to any emergencies while on duty. Paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighters and EMTs may also take on-call shifts, but paid on-call / paid call volunteers respond to emergencies from home on a voluntary basis and when available (hence the term “volunteer”).
How are paid on-call / paid call volunteers notified if there is an emergency?
Paid on-call / paid call volunteers are issued a special pager, which they carry with them. When the dispatcher receives a 911 call, they will transmit a tone to activate the pagers and relay the location and nature of the emergency. Paid on-call / paid call volunteers are expected to keep their pagers on at all times 24/7 when in town, so they can be notified of a call when it happens.
In addition to pagers, volunteers have the option to download an app to their phone. While not required, the app is useful for providing directions to the emergency and letting the incident commander know how many people are responding.
How physically fit do I need to be?
Being physically fit is an essential part of being a firefighter. You don’t have to be a professional athlete, but you should be in relatively good shape as the job is very physically demanding. Firefighters typically wear 60 to 70 pounds of gear during an incident and may have to lift, drag, or carry another person. Firefighters are also required to run, hike, crawl and stand for extended periods of time. Fire fighters and EMS workers are not allowed to have any facial hair that may interfere with the seal of a mask.
If this sounds like a challenge, consider a workout routine that incorporates the following:
• Cardio – Regular cardio helps keep your heart healthy and allows your body to manage oxygen more efficiently (very important when you want your air supply to last as long as possible)
• Strength – Regular weight training strengthens your muscles and reduces fatigue
• High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) – This type of exercise alternates periods of high intensity with short periods of rest, very similar to typical fire ground activity
How dangerous is it to be a firefighter?
Being a firefighter comes with a certain amount of risk. Approximately 100 firefighters die in the line of duty in the United States each year, and it is routinely ranked as one of the most hazardous professions in the country.
The good news is that most of these deaths are preventable. Nearly 75% of line of duty deaths are related to underlying medical conditions and traffic accidents and your personal risk decreases significantly with proper diet and exercise along with defensive driving and seatbelt use. You can also reduce your risk by becoming certified, taking care of your equipment and regularly participating in training.
Is there a ride-along program?
If you are an EMT in training or would simply like to learn more about the department, you may request a ride-along. Please contact Fire Captain Paramedic Coordinator Jeremy Millet (jmillet@mapleton.org) for more details.
What are some other opportunities to get involved?
While being a paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighter or EMT can be an immensely rewarding experience, it is not for everyone. If you would like to become involved in other ways, consider the following:
• Join the Mapleton community emergency response team (CERT)
• Donate equipment or supplies to the fire department
• Follow and share the Mapleton Fire Department Facebook page
Becoming a volunteer:
What are the responsibilities of a paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighter or EMT?
Volunteers have three primary responsibilities:
• Sign up for a min of 4 nights a month to be paid on-call from your home, stay in town, and respond to all emergencies when called within 5 minutes.
• Maintain a 35% response rate for paid call volunteer pages (pages when entire department is asked to respond)
• Attend weekly trainings and maintain certifications
Volunteers may also take part in other activities, such as conducting station tours, checking and maintaining equipment, or cleaning apparatus.
What are the requirements for becoming a paid on-call / paid call volunteer?
The minimum requirements to become a paid on-call / paid call volunteer for Mapleton Fire are:
• Be at least 18 years old
• Possess a valid driver’s license
• Maintain a clean driving / criminal and drug history
• Possess a basic EMT certification (for EMS volunteers)
Do I need to have any certifications or previous experience?
Paid on-call / paid call Volunteer EMTs should possess a current basic EMT certification or be on track to receive one. Advanced EMT, Paramedic, and/or fire certifications are preferred but not required. Many of our volunteers join with no previous experience and we send them through all required training.
Do I have to be both a firefighter and an EMT?
You may join as a firefighter, an EMT, or both. Candidates who are willing to fulfill both roles provide better value to the department and will likely be given preference.
A common route for volunteers is to obtain a basic EMT certification, join the department as an EMT, and then cross train as a firefighter during their probationary period.
Will I need to drive the vehicles?
Paid on-call / paid call volunteers are expected to hold a valid driver’s license and to drive ambulances and smaller apparatus, such as brush trucks and squad vehicles. Employees are provided in house training on emergency vehicle operations, including practical driving exercises.
The engines, tender, and heavy brush are larger and more complex than the smaller department vehicles and require a separate Apparatus Driver/Operation (ADO) certification. This training is offered to the more experienced firefighters.
Do I need to pay for a uniform and gear?
The department provides all turnout gear, helmets, safety equipment, shirts, pants, boots, hats, and cold weather clothing to all employees. Though not required, volunteers often choose to purchase additional gear for themselves, such as different pants, belt, boots etc.
Do I need to pay for training?
EMS paid on-call / paid call volunteers are expected to already have a basic EMT certification or be on track to receive one. Courses and certification typically cost around $1,000. In some cases the Department may sponsor your EMS training.
Basic fire certification typically cost around $5000. Mapleton City provides this training and certification free of cost to paid on-call / paid call volunteer fire fighters. Since this represents a significant investment by the city, you will be asked to sign an agreement to stay on the department for a period of time after any sponsored training is complete.
On occasion, the department may offer to place members through additional training to help meet a specific need (e.g. Advanced EMTs or Apparatus Driver/Operators). This additional training is also paid for by the department.
Life as a paid on-call / paid call volunteer
What happens after I join?
New paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighters are given the title of probationary firefighter and issued a set of gear. During this time, the new fire fighter will be expected to complete the following training and accompanying certifications:
• CPR
• Emergency vehicle operations
• Hazardous materials awareness and operations
• Firefighter I and II
This process can take from 6 to 12 months, depending on class scheduling and level of commitment. This is by far the most time consuming phase of being a firefighter. It is recommended for fire fighters to avoid major life changes during this time, in order to focus on this process. Once the probationary firefighter has passed all of their training, they will be evaluated and promoted to the title of paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighter.
How do new firefighters fit in?
Mapleton Fire welcomes new paid on-call / paid call volunteers and is invested in their success and continued participation. The department does not tolerate hazing or mistreatment of any staff.
However, be aware that trust and respect must be earned in the fire service. The lives of your fellow firefighters may someday depend on you, and they want to make sure you are up to the task. As a probationary firefighter, you will be assigned lower priority fire ground assignments and positions on the apparatus. You will also be evaluated during trainings and on emergency calls.
Use this time to focus on your certifications, ask questions of the more senior firefighters, and be as active in the department as possible. Before you know it, you will be a full certified firefighter and operating as a regular member of the crew.
What is fire training like?
Fire school is usually 4 hour blocks, 2 nights a week plus 8 hour blocks on Saturdays for about 4 months and often takes place in Mapleton or one of the neighboring fire departments. The training initially consists of lectures and bookwork but quickly transitions to practical skills and exercises.
Certification includes live fire training, where you will be able to observe an interior fire firsthand. This is an opportunity to learn how to operate in smoke and high heat and to learn about the limits of your gear.
The training culminates in a series of written and practical tests, including a live interior firefighting exercise. Once you pass, you will receive a Utah firefighter 1 and 2 certification. This certification meets or exceeds national standards and is accepted in most parts of the country.
How does being a paid on-call / paid call volunteer work with a full time job?
Being a paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighter is compatible with most full time careers. Training takes place on nights and weekends and most volunteers are able to meet their requirements by responding to calls outside of work hours.
Some companies provide flexibility to volunteer firefighters by allowing them to respond to calls during the workday. Be sure to check with your HR department on specific policies.
How does being a paid on-call / paid call volunteer work with family life?
Being a spouse or family member of a paid on-call / paid call volunteer firefighter or EMT can be challenging. By their very nature, emergencies are unpredictable and often seem to happen during the most inconvenient times. The pager can and does sound during family dinners, holidays, and at night while you and your family are a sleep. Usually there is only time for a quick goodbye before the fire fighter is out the door, and they may not return for several hours. This is not typical of most family lifestyles, and it can take some time for families to adjust to the new “normal”.
On the other hand, there are many unique and positive opportunities for spouses and family members of volunteers. The fire department holds frequent events for members and their families. Children get to ride in the trucks during the city parade, meet Santa at the fire station, and participate in other activities that their friends can only dream about. In fact, some family members enjoy it so much, that they end up being volunteers too! In fact, Mapleton has several couples and families who serve together as volunteers.
40.134314
-111.5906779
