Guilderland's Volunteer Fire Departments
VOLUNTEER TODAY!
OUR
MISSION
AT THE HEART OF GUILDERLAND’S SAFETY AND RESILIENCE ARE THE DEDICATED VOLUNTEERS WHO ANSWER THE CALL—NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS IN TIMES OF NEED. OUR MISSION IS TO PROTECT LIVES AND PROPERTY THROUGH RAPID EMERGENCY RESPONSE, FIRE PREVENTION EDUCATION, AND UNWAVERING COMMUNITY SERVICE.
WE ARE COMMITTED TO FOSTERING A STRONG, INCLUSIVE, AND WELL-TRAINED TEAM OF VOLUNTEERS WHO SERVE WITH INTEGRITY, PROFESSIONALISM, AND PRIDE. THROUGH RECRUITMENT, EDUCATION, AND OUTREACH, WE STRIVE TO INSPIRE THE NEXT GENERATION OF VOLUNTEERS, ENSURING THAT GUILDERLAND'S FIRE SERVICE REMAINS STRONG FOR YEARS TO COME.
TOGETHER, WE ARE MORE THAN FIREFIGHTERS-WE ARE A COMMUNITY UNITED BY SERVICE, READY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
PERKS
THE TOWN'S VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENTS DEPEND ON VOLUNTEERS AND PLAY AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN PROVIDING FIRE PROTECTION TO OUR RESIDENTS, BUSINESS, SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY. WHEN VOLUTEERING AS A FIREFIGHTER YOU RECEIVE UP TO DATE TRAINING, RETIREMENT AND TAX INCENTIVE.
WHY VOLUNTEER?
Guilderland's volunteer fire departments are the backbone of our community's safety. By stepping up to serve, you're not just answering calls-you're making a real impact, gaining valuable skills, and becoming part of something bigger than yourself.
Volunteering with the Guilderland Volunteer Fire Departments is more than just answering calls-it's about being part of something bigger. It's about stepping up for your community, gaining valuable skills, and joining a team that feels like family.
COMMON CONCERNS & THE REALITY OF VOLUNTEERING
- “I Don’t Have the Time to Volunteer.”
Reality: Volunteering is flexible! We understand that life is busy with work, family, and other responsibilities. That’s why we offer different roles and time commitments to fit your schedule. Whether you can respond to calls, assist with community events, or support behind the scenes, every effort makes a difference.
Did you know? Many volunteers commit just a few hours a month-some even serve in administrative or support roles that don’t require emergency responses.
2. “I’m Not Comfortable Running into a Fire.”
Reality: You don’t have to! Not every volunteer is on the front lines. We need members for:
- Fire Police (traffic control & scene safety)
- Administrative Support (fundraising, event planning, records management)
- Junior Firefighter Programs (for younger volunteers to get involved early)
- Community Outreach (education & fire prevention programs
Did you know? You can contribute in ways that match your comfort level-every role matters.
3. “I’m Not in Shape/I’m Too Old.”
Reality: Age and fitness level vary across our department. If you’re interested in firefighting, we provide training to help you prepare. If physical activity isn’t for you, there are plenty of support roles that don’t require strenuous activity.
Did you know? Many of our volunteers join at different stages of life, and every role, from operational to administrative, is crucial.
4. “I Thought This Was a Paid Job.”
Reality: Guilderland’s fire departments are 100% volunteer-based. Our members dedicate their time to serve the community-not as full-time employees, but as neighbors helping neighbors.
Did you know? While it’s a volunteer role, there are benefits like free training, leadership opportunities, and potential tax incentives for active members.
5. “I Don’t Know Anyone.”
Reality: We’re a welcoming group! Every department provides mentorship and training, so you’ll never feel like you’re in it alone. Plus, we host social events and teambuilding activities to help you get to know fellow members.
Did you know? Many volunteers join without knowing anyone at first-now they call the department their second family!
BE A HERO IN YOUR COMMUNITY
Guilderland's Volunteer Fire Departments are the first line of defense in emergencies, but we can't do it without dedicated community members like you. Volunteering as a firefighter-or in one of the many other available roles-is an opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives while gaining valuable skills, friendships, and a sense of purpose.
READY TO BEGIN YOUR VOLUNTEER JOURNEY?
SIGN UP TODAY