Do you feel that special calling to run into the danger while everyone else is running away?  It's an experience that cannot be easily described. Once you've done it, you'll understand. When you lock eyes with any other firefighter, from any jurisdiction, you instantly feel that mutual respect and bond that results from your common experiences - an experience that you will remember through your lifetime.. "Yeah, I did that!"

What does it take?
You can train to become a Firefighter. No prior firefighting experience is required. All training and related equipment is provided free. While the minimum age is 16 to begin your training you must be 18 and certified before you may participate in any fireground operations. Additionally, all MCFRS career and volunteer firefighters are required to certify and maintain their Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) status.

Training generally takes about 12-14 months or longer through classes conducted at our Public Service Training Academy located in Gaithersburg, Maryland.  As a qualified firefighter, you will be assigned to a fire apparatus vehicle and either supplement career and other volunteer staff.