Thank you for expressing interest in becoming a member of the Berwyn Fire Company. We hope this information packet is able to answer some of the questions you may have about our company. Volunteers are the backbone of the Berwyn Fire Company, and it is important that you realize what is involved in being a fire department member before making the necessary commitment. This manual is intended to describe how the Berwyn Fire Company operates and gives you some background information before you make any decisions on submitting an application. You are encouraged to discuss this information with your family and to contact the membership committee if you require additional information.

Volunteers – All Berwyn Fire Company members are volunteer with the exception of nine career staff members. They are all individuals with strong community will, and commitment to active involvement in making our community what it is today. The ages of our members range from 16 years old to those who are retired and have obtained life member status. Education levels vary from those yet to complete high school to those who have completed advanced degrees. Our members work within the community as chemists, business owners, police officers, registered nurses, career firefighters, mechanics, contractors, 911 dispatchers, school teachers, architects, medical sales and serve in our nations military.

The fire company was formed in 1894; at that time only firefighting services were provided to the community. Emergency medical services were added in 1951. Today the Berwyn Fire Company responds to over 3,000 fire and EMS calls for help each year, making us one of the busiest fire companies in Chester County. More history on the fire company can be found on our website, www.berwynfireco.org.

Obviously whenever an emergency arises, but just as important are our training sessions which are scheduled throughout the year. Fire company drills are held every Monday night and company business meetings are held on the first Thursday of every month. Training courses from local training academies are also scheduled throughout the year and all members are strongly encouraged to take part in these formal training courses.

What you can expect from the Berwyn Fire Company…..
•Training: The Berwyn Fire Company provides all the training which is needed to do the job.
•Equipment: The Berwyn Fire Company will provide all necessary equipment to do the job.
•Protective clothing: All protective clothing will be issued as necessary.
•Worker’s compensation: All Berwyn Fire Company personnel are covered by worker’s compensation.
•Communications: Company personnel will be provided with fire department pagers.

The department is administered by a board of directors through thoughtful and deliberate programs, and comprehensive training. The company is guided by means of bylaws, standard operating procedures and relationships with both Tredyffrin and Easttown townships.

•Completion of formal Fire/EMS/Fire Police training: Formal courses are an important part of the training process. It is expected that a member make all attempts at taking formal training offered at the various local academies. This training goes a long way in making the team effective and safer on emergency responses.
•Availability for emergency responses: Obviously call availability is important. We ask that if you are available to respond, please do so. The more members we have to attend an incident the better.
•Company meetings and drill attendance: These are where you will learn to most about the company and its operations. It is extremely important that company meetings and drills are regularly attended.
•Completion of yearly training requirements: Yearly training requirements are required of all members who respond on emergency incidents. These requirements are set fourth in the fire company’s standard operating procedures.
•Fundraising: It is expected that you participate in fundraising activities throughout the year to help support the fire company financially.

It's important that you understand the commitment required, prior to joining the fire company. You may hear the term, "the only thing voluntary is joining; the rest is mandatory". For firefighters, this isn't far from the truth.