No. HEFD provides the training and certification you need. Recruits complete a program leading to NFPA 1001 Firefighter Level I and Level II and NFPA 1072 Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations.
Become a Volunteer Firefighter
Now Accepting Applications
The Highlands East Fire Department (HEFD) is recruiting volunteer firefighters to protect the communities we all call home. Our firefighters are neighbours, co-workers and friends who answer the call when residents and visitors need help. If you want to make a meaningful difference in Highlands East, we invite you to apply.
No Experience Necessary
You do not need prior fire service experience to apply. Recruits are enrolled in a comprehensive firefighter certification program leading to:
- NFPA 1001 Firefighter Level I
- NFPA 1001 Firefighter Level II
- NFPA 1072 Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations
This is the same training and certification delivered in a college pre-service fire program. HEFD instructors deliver the program locally, and recruits train alongside experienced firefighters.
Get Paid for Your Time
Volunteer firefighters are paid for their time responding to calls for service and for training.
Who Can Apply
We are accepting applications for people working or living in the Municipality of Highlands East. Applicants must possess the following minimum qualifications:
- All applicants must be 18 years or older at time of application.
- All applicants must have a valid G Ontario driver's licence at time of application.
- All applicants must live or work in an area served by our fire stations.
We may ask for additional qualifications within the application form.
Areas Served
HEFD serves the Municipality of Highlands East from five fire stations:
- Station 1, Cardiff (2747 Monck Road)
- Station 2, Highland Grove (1014 Meteorite Road)
- Station 3, Gooderham (1043 Community Centre Road)
- Station 4, Wilberforce (2259 Loop Road)
- Station 6, Paudash (26538 Highway 28 and Lagoon Road)
What You Will Do
Volunteer firefighters respond to a wide range of emergencies and support the department in the community. Duties include:
- fire suppression;
- extrication at motor vehicle collisions;
- first aid, CPR and defibrillation;
- fire prevention and public education;
- apparatus, equipment and station upkeep;
- regular and specialized training; and
- regular meeting nights.
How to Apply
- Complete the form. Submit the online volunteer firefighter application form.
- Application review. The fire department reviews your application.
- Next steps. The department contacts you to discuss the steps that follow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need firefighting experience?
Are volunteer firefighters paid?
Yes. Volunteer firefighters are paid for their time responding to calls for service and for training.
Most volunteer firefighters hold full-time or part-time employment elsewhere.
Volunteer firefighters take part in regular meeting nights, ongoing training and emergency response. All uncertified firefighters are required to complete the department’s minimum mandatory certification training program, which consists of substantial self-study in preparation for the in-class and practical skills training dates which are delivered during one full weekend of time per month for six months during the first year on the department.
Which station would I be assigned to?
Station assignment is generally based on where you live or work.
Will I need a medical or background check?
You will require an OPP criminal record check, a current driver’s abstract, and a letter from a doctor noting that you are physically able to perform the duties of a firefighter. The municipality will reimburse you for the costs of obtaining these documents.
Questions?
Contact the Highlands East Fire Department through the municipal office by calling 705-448-2981 or by emailing info@highlandseast.ca.