Join GCFD

Why join the Fire Department?

At some point, almost every kid wanted to be a firefighter when they grew up. The flashing lights, loud sirens, and big red trucks speeding off to save the day inspired us to want to become firefighters when we got older. 

Maybe that childhood inspiration still draws you to the Fire Service. Maybe you are looking for a way to help others and give back to the community. Or be part of a team or organization? 

Being in the Fire Department is a rewarding and unique experience like no other. The skills you learn, the people you meet, and the experiences you will have are like no other. You will have the opportunity to help people and make a difference in your community.  

Can I join the Fire Department?

Anyone who is 18 years or older, can pass a drug screening, and background check (no felony convictions)can join the Grand Coteau Fire Department. Even if you have no knowledge or experience of the fire service. We will provide you with the training and equipment needed to be a part of our team!

What can I do on the Fire Department?

GCFD has different areas where you can volunteer. You can be a  Firefighter, a Driver/Operator (Engineer), or an Emergency Medical Responder (EMR). You can even do all three!

Firefighter – Fights structure and vehicle fires, responds to car wrecks, and investigates hazardous situations.

Driver/Operator– Drives fire trucks to and from emergencies, operates fire pumps and specialized equipment, and sets up water supplies at fires. In our department, we call our Driver/Operators “Engineers”

Emergency Medical First Responder (EMR)- Gives first aid to citizens having breathing problems, heart trouble, chest pains, choking, drownings, or injuries in vehicle accidents.

How much time would I need to dedicate to be a volunteer?

Being a volunteer is volunteering your time to the fire department. Not everyone can dedicate as much time as others, and emergency responses can come at any time of day and night. Though we do this in our free time, people who call on us to help expect us to be trained and prepared to come to them during their time of need. To be a volunteer for the Fire Department, you need to be prepared to dedicate time to training and responding. Here at GCFD, we have regular training twice a month: The first and Third Tuesday from 6 pm to 9 pm. We also may attend training outside of regular training such as specialty classes and live drills. Minimum requirements for GCFD are that you make at least 10 trainings a year, and respond 25% of the calls within a year.

Will I be paid as a volunteer?

No, volunteers donate their time to train and respond to emergencies. Though, there are incentives like State Tax brakes, membership to state and national organizations, insurance deals, and discounts offered for certain businesses and services. If you are interested in a career in the Fire Service, becoming a volunteer firefighter is a great place to start. 

What is it like being a Volunteer?

Just ask any volunteer with any Fire Department, it is very rewarding. Being on the Fire Department is exciting, challenging, and outright fun. Training with all the cool equipment and responding to emergencies in a fire truck, there is nothing else like it.

Most of all, being a part of a team can give you a sense of purpose and accomplishment. In GCFD, we are not just a team, we are a family. 

What is the Process to joining the Fire Department?

• Fill out an Application: You can download and fill out the application in the link below. Once you have filled out the application, you can turn it in at the Grand Coteau Police Department. Applications are also available at the Grand Coteau Police Department if you are unable to download or print the application. 
• Once your application is submitted, you will be called in for an interview by our Fire Chief and Assistant Chief. 
• Once the interview is complete and your application is accepted, you will become a probationary member of the Fire Department and will be able to begin training.