Application Procedure Anyone wishing to become a member of Somerset Volunteer Fire & Rescue Company No. 1 can obtain a membership application from any SVFRC member or may download an application by clicking on the "Membership Application" icon to the right. Adobe Acrobat Reader is required to access the application form. If you do not have it installed, click here to download Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you are considering joining SVFRC, we request that you read and carefully consider the following: To be considered for membership the following application process applies:

	You must be at least 18 years of age for regular firefighter status, or 16 years of age for junior firefighter status with parental or guardian approval.
	Application must be dropped off in person.
	A $5.00 non-refundable application-processing fee must be submitted with the application.
	The application must be completed in its entirety.
	Completed application and processing fee must be submitted directly to a membership committee person or company officer.
	A physical exam by a licensed medical doctor is required and will be payed for by SVFRC.
	A police background check and fingerprinting is required.

Joining SVFRC
There are a variety of reasons that people become volunteer firefighters, but our main goal is to protect the lives and property of those we serve. At times this can mean placing one's personal safety in danger while rescuing others.

Fire companies are paramilitary organizations in that there are line officers and a chain of command. Line officers are responsible for commanding the actions of the firefighters and maintaining order at all calls.

Responsibilities include:

	Emergency calls		District inspection
	Training		Fund raising
	Work details		Company management
	Drills		Apparatus maintenance
	Meetings		Firehouse maintenance

There are many challenges in firefighting but there are many benefits as well, including providing a community service, fire prevention training, and social activities.

Commitment
Aside from the weekly time commitments, classroom training is also required. All firefighters must successfully complete Firefighter I class, which requires 120 hours of classroom and practical instruction, two nights per week. Other classes such as bloodborne pathogen training are required once per calendar year.

Application Procedure
Once your application has been handed in, company rules require that it be posted for a period of thirty days. During this time the prospective member is strongly encouraged to participate in company work details held every Tuesday night from 7:00p.m. to 9:00p.m. The company meeting is held the second Tuesday of each month. Due to company regulations, this meeting is restricted to fire company members only; applicants are ineligible to attend company meetings.

After your application has been posted for thirty days, the membership committee will contact you to set up an interview. The interview is usually short and informal. After the interview you will be asked to leave the room so the membership committee may review the information and vote on your application. If you are accepted as a member, you will be given information to help you get started. If your membership is denied, the reason for denial will be explained to you in full.

Probation
All new firefighters are on probationary status for at least 12 months after joining.