All applicants must be at least 16 years old and pass a criminal background check and drug test. The application must be accompanied by a $75 non-refundable application fee, although we will waive the fee for applicants who are already Maryland-certified EMTs or Firefighters. Applicants for operational roles (EMS or Fire) must pass a basic Physical Ability Test.

All new members must meet a set of clearly outlined performance standards during their probationary period. These performance standards include: getting medically cleared, passing a CPR class and Hazardous Materials Awareness class, getting cleared to ride as an observer on the Medic and/or the Engine, attending in-house training, attending monthly company meetings, participating in station-sponsored community events, and fundraising. There is the expectation that operational members will commit additional time to attend formal training classes during their probationary period. New members should expect to spend time at the station at least two or three times each week in order to become familiar with the equipment and procedures, get acquainted with other members, and participate in emergency responses and informal training.

Beyond enjoying a sense of accomplishment, achievement, and pride in the work they do, our volunteers also have access to our spacious and comfortable facility, including bunkrooms and living areas, and an exercise/weight room, and can enjoy free computer and wi-fi access.

Operational members may take emergency services classes tuition-free and receive gear at no charge. Qualified Fire and EMS members may live rent-free in one of our furnished live-in rooms.

Members are also eligible to receive tax deductions, scholarships, tuition reimbursement, and insurance coverage. Members who serve for 25 years or more are eligible for retirement pay through the county’s LOSAP program.

Take the first step to membership by filling out the interest form!

The fire department is a unique workplace. When you work with your fellow volunteers, you share a special bond since you rely on each other in times of crisis and during intense situations. This bond creates a camaraderie that is unlike any other. This is especially true at Chestnut Ridge Volunteer Fire Company. Our firehouse family has members of all ages and from all walks of life. After joining, if you put in the time and show an interest, you will quickly become a part of our tight-knit family and will likely form some of the best friendships that you will ever have.

• Firefighter I class takes about 3 to 4 months to complete. The classes are two weeknights (usually 7-10) and one weekend day (usually 8-3) and are usually offered every spring and fall semester
• EMT class takes about 4-5 months. The classes are two weeknights (usually 7-10) and one weekend day (usually 8-3) and are usually offered every spring and fall semester
• Both the Firefighter I class and the EMT class are typically also offered in the summer, but these classes are held daily, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. for 6 weeks (Fire I) or 9 weeks (EMT)

• As a probationary (new) member, you must meet a set of clearly outlined performance standards during your probationary period. New members should expect to spend time at the station at least two or three times each week in order to become familiar with the equipment and procedures, get acquainted with other members, and participate in emergency responses and informal training. The more time you put in, the more you will get out of the experience.
• Probationary members are also expected to assist with community events, fundraising, and keeping the firehouse and equipment clean.
• After your probationary period ends, your participation will not be monitored. It is up to you to determine how much time to dedicate to serving the community and to continue honing your skills.

• While we typically have people in the station, we have many members who respond from home for fire calls. When a fire call is dispatched, we have three minutes to get the equipment on the road.
• For the medic unit (ambulance), we operate on an attended status. This means that we have crews who “attend” the medic. If there is not a crew attending, then the ambulance is not dispatched to calls during that time.

Yes. Every firefighter and EMT, regardless of volunteer or career status, is trained to the same standards. This allows us to work together on incidents every day.

Most of our training is done through Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute (MFRI) and the Baltimore County Fire Rescue Academy. MFRI is a University of Maryland system that teaches firefighting and emergency medical classes. The training is free to our members.