Town Departments

Volunteer Application Instructions and Procedure

So, you want to be a firefighter?

The rewards of being a firefighter are exciting and extensive. However, the job is physically and mentally challenging as firefighters work in various environments.

You must have a strong understanding of the role and job requirements of a firefighter in today’s society. This will enable you to make an informed decision when submitting your application.

To be a volunteer member of the Amherst Fire Department, you must be a resident within the primary response area of the Amherst Fire Department.

Before applying, please read and understand the Firefighter Job Description in its entirety. Although much effort has been taken to ensure the list is accurate and reflects the most common duties – both emergency and non‐emergency ­– it is certainly not an all‐inclusive list. The role of the modern firefighter is constantly evolving, especially duties assigned at the various scenes that firefighters are dispatched to.

Once you have read the job description, your second step will be to complete the basic application information below and submit it. Once your application has been received, it will be reviewed by the Fire Chief and an in‐person interview will be scheduled with you at a later date.

If you are a successful applicant, you will become a Probationary Member for a minimum of one year. You will have one month to get a medical assessment completed by a qualified physician. It is your responsibility to provide a copy of the Firefighter Job Description to the physician conducting the medical assessment. The cost of having the medical assessment completed and any related tests performed is the responsibility of the applicant.

If you have any questions then please direct them by email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Volunteer Firefighter Job Description

The rewards of being a Firefighter are extensive. The work is exciting and challenging. Below you will find a summary of key components of the job.

Position Summary

The Firefighter is responsible for firefighting, rescue emergency medical and other related services. The Firefighter is responsible for rapidly, efficiently and safely performing various duties under emergency, oftentimes hazardous, conditions. The work includes routine duties in the maintenance of firefighting vehicles, equipment and fire department facilities. The Firefighter may be responsible for fire ground and emergency operations until command is assumed by an officer.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Responds to emergency calls, lays and connects hose, holds nozzles and directs water streams, raises and climbs ladders, uses extinguishers and other equipment
• Wears self‐contained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing while working in noxious and/or smoke-filled environments
• Ventilates buildings or areas to release heat, smoke or fumes
• Places salvage covers so as to protect property and prevent water damage
• Performs overhaul operations in order to ensure fire is completely extinguished
• Provides search and rescue in various forms
• Conducts fire suppression activities for structure fires, vehicle fires, forest/brush fires and other fires
• Drives and operates firefighting and emergency equipment as assigned
• Provides first responder actions to emergency medical and hazardous materials calls
• Drives, checks safety of the immediate area, brings required medical equipment
• Assesses situation/victim by taking medical history, visual and vital signs
• Conducts appropriate intervention, including CPR and other first‐aid as required
• Assists paramedics, conveys information, lifts and carries heavy patients, etc.
• Manages crowds/bystanders/victims' relatives, etc.
• Performs a variety of rescue‐related duties to protect the public and lessen the severity of injuries related to motor vehicle accidents, confined space entrapment, water hazards, industrial accidents, incidents involving hazardous materials, etc.
• Provides traffic control at the scene of motor vehicle accidents
• Responds to non‐emergency calls as required
• Maintains vital incident report information for investigative and record-keeping purposes
• Provides service assistance to, but not restricted to, the following: police, paramedics and public
• Attends on-duty training sessions and off-site training courses as necessary
• Maintains equipment in good repair in accordance with organizational policies and procedures
• Responsible for workplace safety as outlined in the Nova Scotia Occupational Health & Safety Act and organizational policies, procedures and guidelines
• Responsible for upgrading and maintaining skills/knowledge and physical requirements to current standards
• Performs related duties as required

Qualifications

• Ability to understand and communicate clearly in English (oral and written)
• Grade 12 education certificate or equivalent
• A valid Nova Scotia driver's licence (Class 5)
• A respected member of the community, including no conviction for a criminal offence
• Ability to pass a medical examination
• Behavioural Competencies:
  • Communication
  • Customer Service
  • Flexibility
  • Teamwork and Co-operation
  • Valuing Diversity

Working Conditions

• Work environment requires the ability to react quickly and remain calm under stressful situations
• Must possess agility and stamina to perform all functions of this position under adverse conditions

It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to the Amherst Fire Department. We are very proud of our department and the members that provide the service to you. The Amherst Fire Department is a composite fire department consisting of highly dedicated career and volunteer firefighters. This department aspires to serve our citizens, prevent fires, protect property, and efficiently mitigate incidents when they do occur.

The members of the Amherst Fire Department are very proud to serve our citizens and our visitors and are committed to providing excellent delivery of fire services and outstanding customer service.

Sincerely,

Greg Jones,
Director of Fire Services

Vision Statement

The Amherst Fire Department, by means of a team approach, will set measurable objectives to be reached by continuously being trained; give community support and involvement by dedicated, responsible, and reliable personnel. This will enable us to be a proactive community organization, always keeping an open mind on current social trends, while being ethical, and professional and recognizing the rights of others.

Mission Statement

The Amherst Fire Department will, under the direction of its Chief and by the means of its members, commit to providing residents the most capable Fire and Emergency Service possible, while promoting safety and quality of life.

Amherst Fire Department 1

Amherst Fire Department 2

Amherst Fire Department 3

Amherst Fire Department 4

The Amherst Fire Department is home to more than 50 volunteer firefighters, eight full-time staff and five casual staff, who are under the direction of Fire Chief Greg Jones and Deputy Fire Chief Brian Farrow.

The apparatus at the Amherst Fire Department consists of 10 units. Included in this are three pumper units, a tanker unit, a 70-foot aerial ladder truck, a rescue unit, a hazardous material unit, a command vehicle, Pumper Joe and a fully restored antique 1936 pumper truck that is the pride of the department.

Our career firefighters work shifts that consist of 24 hours on, and 72 hours off. All members of the Amherst Fire Department are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The Amherst Fire Department responds to the emergency needs of Amherst's population of about 10,000 residents. It also covers the part of the Municipality of Cumberland that is adjacent to the town. Within this area, the Amherst Fire Department responds to about 300 alarms each year. Firefighters are continuously training, attending meetings and reviewing strategies and tactics in order to be ready for that next call.

The Amherst Town Council and the community's residents are committed to supporting the Amherst Fire Department. The challenges that face today's fire/emergency services have become so complex that leadership is the single major factor impacting the continuing growth and future stability of the business. Yes, it is a business. The Amherst Fire Department is a community-based operation catering to the many needs of the community.

Greg Jones, Director of Fire Services
Phone: 902-667-0395
Fax: 902-667-2260
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

General Inquiries
Phone: 902-667-2518

Fire Inspections Division                                         
Phone: 902-667-2518

Hall Rentals
Please visit the Amherst Firefighters Association website for information on availability and to use their online booking tool.
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.        

Amherst Fire Fighters Association President       
Phone: 902-667-2518

Ladies Auxiliary President                                      
Phone: 902-667-2518

FOR EMERGENCIES CALL 911

pdf Fire Inspection Policy (21 KB)