Volunteer Firefighter - Highlands County Fire Rescue

Overview

Highlands County Fire Rescue (HCFR) was formed October 2, 2018 by resolution of the Highlands County Board of County Commissioners. The newly formed combination paid/volunteer department consolidated operations of the previous 10 independent volunteer fire companies under the County system. Highlands County EMS was also consolidated into the new HCFR.

HCFR is an all‑hazards response organization. Volunteers and staff respond to 911 calls for a variety of emergencies, including but not limited to structure, brush, vehicle, and trash fires; motor vehicle wrecks; shootings, stabbings, and other injuries; heart attacks, strokes, COVID, and many other illnesses; hazardous materials incidents; technical rescue calls; individual life assists; and non‑emergency assistance such as cats in trees or investigations for odors and sounds.

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Complete the application process
• Appear in person at a local fire station or headquarters to receive , uniforms, and firefighting gear (no charge to you)
• Complete New Hire Orientation (no cost and no prior training required)
• Regularly attend meetings and internal training
• Volunteers must be capable of responding to the station for calls; volunteers generally live close to the assigned station
• Receive $5.00 for every call responded to, paid quarterly
• Participation in the length of service award program (specific amount details to be provided)

We do not discriminate on the basis of age, race, sex, religious belief, color, national origin, disability/handicap, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetics, or any other legally protected group/class. We are proud to be a drug‑free workplace. Screening tests for illegal drug use may be required as a condition of employment.