How to Become A Volunteer
Eligibility
Interested persons can begin volunteering as young as 15 years old. Volunteers under the age of 18 can participate in most firefighting activities and training but some duties are limited.
Junior firefighters must have written parental or guardian permission to become a member.
Persons over the age of 18 are eligible to participate in all department activities including but not limited to interior firefighting, driving trucks, and high angle rescue upon being properly trained to participate in these activities.
The need for Volunteers
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a firefighter? Have you ever wanted to volunteer in your community? From saving someone trapped in a structure fire to cutting a victim out of a wrecked vehicle to rappelling off a building to rescue someone in danger, Desoto Fire District 8 has a position for you. If firefighting is not for you and you still want to participate, there are numerous support positions available to those interested.
Training
Not a trained firefighter? No problem! DFD 8 provides training classes in every aspect of the fire service. After becoming a member of the department, new recruits can participate in all department training provided. Volunteers are welcome and encouraged to come to central station when available to train and run emergencies with the staff firefighters. Although it is not required volunteers can become certified firefighters by taking an approved class and certification test through LSU Fire and Emergency Training Institute. Volunteers can also participate other training related to the fire service such as hazardous materials training, medical training, rope rescue, and dive training to name a few.
How to Sign Up
To become a member you can fill out a membership form provided online or at our central station. All applications must be approved before admittance to the department. Once approved you will be contacted to begin your orientation with the department. If you have any questions please contact the department at 318-872-2453.
Volunteer Application
To apply for a firefighter position you must possess a current civil service score and submit an application with all the required documentation. For more information on test dates and a civil service application visit www.ose.louisiana.gov
As of January 1, 2010 starting pay for Firefighter/Operator is $28,000. Each LSU certification test besides the required Firefighter I is a $300 per year raise. Pay incentive for EMT-Basic is an additional $100 per month, for EMT-Intermediate add an additional $100, and for Paramedic certification add another additional $100 per month.
