How to become a Cazenovia Fire Deptartment volunteer.

Anyone interested in becoming a member of the Cazenovia Fire Department must first complete and submit a formal application (click on "Contact Us"  tab above to get this started).  Once this application is received, it will be given to the appropriate company (Hose Company or Hook and Ladder Company) based on a alternation of applications.  Upon the company receiving your application, a meeting will be scheduled between you and a screening committee to further explain what requirements will be expected of you, to confirm you meet the required criteria for membership, and to answer any questions you may have.  The department will also conduct an arson background check on you as well as you will need to provide the department with a copy  of a recent physical. If you wish to proceed, your application will be presented at the next monthly company meeting.  At this meeting the screening committee reports their recommendation to their respective body and the company then will vote as to whether to accept or deny your application.  Once accepted by the body, the application must then go to the next village board meeting for final approval.  After the board meeting, the Captain of the appropriate company will call to advise you of the outcome and schedule a time to issue you turnout gear if accepted.

At this time you are now an official member of the Cazenovia Fire Dept. however, there are certain minimum requirements you must meet before you can actively participate in the response and handling of emergency calls. 

The first step is basic level training.  Classes are offered at various times throughout Madison and neighboring counties. The classes are taught by New York State Instructors therefore you may participate in any of these provided the enrollment is not full. 

There are two avenues in which you may proceed down based on your interest level.  After completion of either option you can then expand to the other specialty areas such as EMT, Rope Rescue, Dive Team or Ice/Cold Water Rescue.

Option #1 – is called Firefighter 1.  This class is designed for those looking to become “interior” firefighters.  In this class you will learn how to safely fight fire by entering structures, search and rescue, and firefigher survival.  This class is a 78 hour long course that involves both class room and hand-on work.  Tests are given throughout the course and must be passed in order to complete and receive credit for the class.  Also a 9 hour Firefighter Survival course is required.

Option #2 – is called Scene support operations.  This class is designed for those looking to become apparatus operators or perform firefighting tasks “outside” of structures.  This course is 27 hours.  Also a 15 hour Haz-mat first responder ops course is required.

The first four weeks of these classes are the same and are designed to give new recruits the option to switch courses without loosing hours if interests change.

***Please note completion of either class does not mean training is complete.***

Experience and continuing education are essential for firefighters to perform to the best of their abilities.  We operate as a department and we are only as strong as our weakest link.  Throughout the year many other courses are offered as well as several Cazenovia Fire Department practices.  It is important to take advantage of every opportunity to learn for your safety as well as others around you.