Frequently Asked Questions about membership in the
Salem Blackman Volunteer Fire Department:

 

How do I learn more before I apply? 

            The easiest way is to speak to one of the department’s officers or a member of the Membership Review Board.  They will be happy to help.

How do I apply?

            First you must obtain an application form.  After fully completing the form, contact a member of the Membership Review Board.  Each applicant must submit to an interview process and two readings of their application for approval of a probationary membership.  For those wishing to participate in certain job positions, a physical ability test is required. 

What is the probationary membership?

            After a vote of by the membership of the department during a monthly business meeting, each new member is placed on “probationary membership” for a pre-determined amount of time.  During this time, the member may participate in all aspects of the department;  however, he/she may not vote in business meetings and are under a higher level of supervision in general.

I have to pass an agility test?

            If you wish to apply for a firefighting position, yes.  These positions require the individual to be in good health for the safety of themselves and those around them.  However, there are other positions available besides firefighting.  These positions do not require the same level of ability.

So how does this work?  After I get voted in, what happens next?

            In Rutherford County, the volunteer fire departments are dispatched by the Sheriff’s Department.  When a call for service comes in, the dispatcher alerts the firefighters via special fire-pagers.  These pagers activate with a series of beeps and the voice message.  You then must respond to the station.  Members will be issued a pager as the devices become available.

So I get red lights and a siren on my car, right?

            No.  The use of audible and red flashing visual warning devices are controlled and authorized by the fire Chief.  Only officers of department may use such devices in fire responses on their personal vehicles (at the Chief’s discretion.) 

How much is all of this fire gear going to cost me?

            Nothing.  The department provides the minimum gear needed for operations.  Some members choose to purchase additional or upgraded gear with their own money.  This is certainly acceptable.  Department owned fire gear must reside at the station. 

What can I expect to get to do on a fire call immediately after I join?

            New members will not be permitted to participate in structural firefighting operations until they have satisfied the standards of the department.  However, this does not mean that you will not stay busy.  You can still be a vital part of the effort by assisting outside the house as directed.  Depending on your level of skill you will be directed and supervised in these tasks. 

I don’t have any experience at all.  What kind of training do I need?

            The department will assist you in acquiring the training you need.  This will include a firefighting course taught by a state instructor culminating in a live burn exercise.  Also, you will be required to attend an EMS First Responder licensing class.  This will allow you to run medical calls with the ambulance service under our First Responder program.

So what kind of calls do we do?

            The department responds to all fire calls within our district.  In addition to this, we respond to neighboring districts for calls.  Many calls are automated alarms.  We also run a multitude of brush fires (depending on the season).  Often the department is dispatched to vehicle accidents and other special situations.  (However, separate Rescue Squads and the Special Operations Response Team serve the county for these calls primarily.)  Also, we are the only volunteer department in the county to respond to medical calls with the ambulance service. 

Do we have a lot of scheduled functions?

            No.  Members are required to attend training one weeknight per month, a monthly business meeting on a weeknight, and equipment check-offs bi-weekly.  Lastly, each member must work two shifts per month of twelve hours each (most of the time on a Friday or Saturday night).  Occasionally items will be added to this list.  However, we realize that everyone works and has families.  We will work with you to satisfy these requirements.