Training Before Deployment

Best Practices
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While there isn’t a single, universally mandated minimum training requirement in Nova Scotia that applies to all volunteer firefighters before they can be active in the field, the expectation is that new recruits will successfully complete a basic firefighting training program as soon as reasonably possible after joining a department.

Table of Content:

After completing the initial application. A Volunteer Fire Department should keep a member as not active for emergency calls until’

  • Criminal Records Check - This is a recommendation to avoid putting the public at Risk. Recommended Frequency every 1 to 3 years.

  • Driving Abstract - recommendation to avoid authorizing potentially dangerous person behind the wheel of an emergency response vehicle. Recommended Frequency? Every 2 years.

  • Medical Clearance - Recommendation as it is also part of Fire Fighter Level 1 training. Recommended Frequency? Every 2 to 3 years.

  • Vet Past Work History & References.

  • WHMIS - Certification

  • Orientation

    • Code of Conduct
    • PPE
    • Responding to a Call
    • Scene Safety
    • Scene procedures/protocols
    • Fire Extinguisher
    • Familiarity of Truck(s)
    • Equipment Orientation

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of what the search results indicate:

  • Recruit Training is the Foundation: Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency (HRFE) explicitly states that new volunteer firefighters must successfully complete their Volunteer Firefighter Recruit Training before being permitted to carry a pager or attend calls. This training covers the basic skills required to respond to emergencies. This aligns with the general principle that new members start by learning fundamental skills, equipment, policies, and practices.
  • Firefighter Level 1 as a Goal: Several sources mention achieving Firefighter Level 1 certification as a key objective for volunteer firefighters, often within the first one to two years of joining. This level of certification, often based on NFPA 1001 standards, provides a comprehensive foundation in essential firefighting skills and knowledge. The Kings County Firefighters Association and the Nova Scotia Firefighters School offer courses for this.
  • Department-Specific In-House Training: Before or alongside formal certification, new probationary firefighters will typically undergo in-house training with their specific fire department. This will familiarize them with the department’s equipment, standard operating procedures, and the roles and responsibilities of team members. Topics covered in initial in-house training can include:
    • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
    • Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)
    • Ropes and Knots
    • Ground Ladders
    • Fire Behaviour
    • Hoses and Nozzles
    • Fire Streams
  • Progression and Further Training: Volunteer firefighters are expected to participate in ongoing weekly or bi-weekly training with their departments. This continuous training builds upon the initial skills and prepares them for a wider range of emergency scenarios.
  • Minimum Operational Requirements (Implied): While not a specific “minimum training” defined by a set number of hours or courses before any field activity, it’s implied that a volunteer firefighter would need to demonstrate a basic understanding of safety procedures, equipment operation, and teamwork before actively participating in emergency scenes. This would likely be determined by the Fire Chief and senior officers within the department.
  • Importance of Safety: The overarching principle is ensuring the safety of the volunteer firefighters and the public. Therefore, departments will prioritize providing foundational training before allowing new members to engage in potentially hazardous activities.
  • Variations Between Departments: It’s important to note that specific requirements and timelines for training might vary slightly between different volunteer fire departments across Nova Scotia. However, the general expectation of completing recruit training and progressing towards Firefighter Level 1 certification within a reasonable timeframe is common.

In summary, while a new volunteer firefighter in Nova Scotia might be able to attend certain types of calls or perform specific support roles under supervision relatively early on, active participation in firefighting and other higher-risk activities generally requires the successful completion of initial recruit training and a commitment to ongoing training, with Firefighter Level 1 certification being a significant milestone.

It’s best for prospective volunteers to inquire directly with their local fire department about their specific training program and expectations for new members.

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Becoming a volunteer firefighter in Nova Scotia is a rewarding way to serve your community. While specific procedures may vary slightly between different fire departments, here’s a general outline of the best practices for the application process, incorporating information from the provided search results:

1. Research Local Fire Departments:

  • Identify Departments: Determine which volunteer fire departments serve your residential area. You generally need to be a permanent resident within the primary coverage area of the station where you wish to volunteer. Contact your local municipality or fire service coordinator if you are unsure of the coverage area. For Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency (HRFE), you can email your civic address to volff@halifax.ca to check.
  • Check for Recruitment: Confirm if the department is currently accepting new volunteers. Some departments have ongoing recruitment, while others may have specific intake periods. Visiting the fire station on a training night is often a good way to inquire. Many departments train on Tuesday evenings, but some have different schedules (e.g., Wednesday evenings for certain HRFE stations).
  • Review Department Websites: Many fire departments have websites or social media pages with information about volunteering, requirements, and how to apply (see links in search results for examples like Amherst, Chester, Bible Hill, New Minas, and Annapolis Royal).

2. Obtain and Complete the Application:

  • Where to Get Applications: Application packages can often be picked up directly from the local fire station during a training night or from the municipal office. Some municipalities also provide application forms online for download (e.g., Municipality of Cumberland, Bible Hill).
  • Information Required: The application form will typically ask for personal information, contact details, education, employment history, relevant skills or experience (like first aid training), and references. Some applications may also inquire about your availability for emergency calls (daytime, nighttime, weekends).
  • Attachments: Be prepared to submit supporting documents with your application. Common requirements include:
    • Photocopy of your valid Nova Scotia driver’s license (minimum Class 5).
    • Driver’s abstract demonstrating a safe driving record (you may need to obtain this from the Registry of Motor Vehicles and include the receipt).
    • Criminal record check (and sometimes a vulnerable sector check), which you will likely need to obtain from your local police detachment (include the receipt).
    • References (usually 2-3 personal references).

3. The Interview Process:

  • Notification: If your application is shortlisted, the Station Captain or a recruitment officer will contact you to schedule an interview.
  • Competency-Based Interviews: Many departments use competency-based interviews to assess if you possess the necessary skills. Be prepared to provide examples from your past work or volunteer experiences that demonstrate skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving, stress management, and a commitment to values and ethics.
  • Meet the Team: The interview may also provide an opportunity for you to meet current members of the fire department and learn more about their operations and expectations. In some smaller departments, your application may be voted on by the existing members at a regular monthly meeting.

4. Medical Assessment:

  • Form Provided: If you are successful in the interview, you will usually be given a pre-placement medical assessment form to be completed by a physician.
  • Physician Review: This assessment ensures you are physically and medically fit to perform the duties of a firefighter. You are typically responsible for returning the completed form to the fire department. Some municipalities may have an approved list of physicians.

5. Physical Fitness Testing:

  • Gledhill Fitness Protocol: Many fire departments in Nova Scotia, including HRFE, utilize the Gledhill Fitness Protocol for Firefighters. This test evaluates your physical capabilities to handle the demands of firefighting.
  • Test Components: The Gledhill test typically includes events such as a ladder climb, claustrophobia assessment, hose carry/climb, rope pull, hose advance/drag, ladder lift, victim drag, and forced entry. Note that volunteer firefighters are generally not required to complete the shuttle run (Beep test) portion of the Gledhill protocol.
  • Preparation: Firefighting is physically demanding, so it’s advisable to start a physical training program before applying to improve your chances of passing the fitness test.

6. Recruit Training:

  • Mandatory Training: Once you pass the physical fitness test, you will be required to attend weekly training sessions at your assigned fire station. You will not be permitted to respond to emergency calls until you have completed the mandatory Volunteer Recruit Training (VRT).
  • Volunteer Recruit Training (VRT): This comprehensive training program typically involves both hands-on and eLearning components. It often takes place over several weekends (e.g., seven weekends for HRFE).
  • Curriculum: The training covers essential firefighting and rescue skills, safety procedures, equipment operation, and other related topics. In some areas, like Kings County, volunteer recruits are expected to achieve their Firefighter Level 1 designation within the first two years.

7. Probationary Period and Graduation:

  • Probationary Firefighter: Upon successful completion of the VRT, you will typically be considered a probationary volunteer firefighter for a specified period (e.g., one year for HRFE).
  • Full Membership: During the probationary period, you will continue to train and be evaluated on your performance and commitment. After successfully completing the probationary period and any remaining requirements, you will typically be granted full membership in the fire department.

Important Considerations:

  • Age Requirements: Most departments require applicants to be at least 18 years old for active membership. Some departments may have junior firefighter programs for individuals aged 16-17.
  • Residency: As mentioned, you generally must be a permanent resident within the fire department’s primary response area.
  • Time Commitment: Being a volunteer firefighter requires a significant time commitment for training (weekly sessions, recruit training), responding to emergency calls, attending meetings, and participating in community events. Expect to dedicate an average of 15-35 hours per month, depending on the department. The Province of Nova Scotia suggests that a volunteer in good standing attends at least 20% of annual calls, training, and meetings.
  • No Prior Experience Necessary: While any relevant skills or experience are beneficial, most departments provide all the necessary training. The most important qualification is often a strong motivation to help your community.
  • Benefits of Volunteering: While volunteer firefighters are not typically paid, there are numerous benefits, including free training, opportunities for personal development, serving your community, being part of a close-knit team, potential honorariums, provincial tax credits, and in some cases, free vehicle registration.
  • Commitment to Training: Ongoing training is crucial in the fire service. You will be expected to participate in regular training sessions to maintain and enhance your skills.

By following these best practices and contacting your local fire departments directly, you can navigate the application procedure and take the first step towards becoming a volunteer firefighter in Nova Scotia.