Becoming A Member

The Fire and EMS service is one of the most diverse and challenging vocations today. It is this diversity that attracts so many men and women to volunteer their time. But it takes dedication and many hours of training to be ready to respond in an emergency.

Because everyone volunteers for a different reason, the Colton Fire Department Corporation, Inc. has many different positions to fit whatever it is you are looking for. Whether you are looking to be an interior firefighter helping to extinguishing a structure fire, an EMT assisting the injured, or scene support directing traffic, each member fills a vital role in keeping our community safe. We realize that firefighting & EMS is not for everyone, but believe that volunteering can be.

Don’t think you have the skills necessary? Don’t worry, we will provide you with all the training and equipment you need to be safe when helping others.

Volunteering in emergency services is not something that should be considered lightly, however the skills, friendships and experiences you take away will follow you the rest of your life.

To learn more about becoming a member of the Colton Volunteer Fire Department Corporation, Inc. see our application at the bottom of the page.

Membership Requirements:

• Members shall be at least eighteen years of age (with the exception of RAM members must be at least sixteen years of age.)
• Citizens of the United States with the ability to read, write and speak the English Language. 
• Of good moral character and sound body.
• Complete a Physical Exam.
• Complete a criminal background check for arson and sexual offences
• Complete a application interview with members of the department.

Membership Types:

We have 7 different types of membership that cover a wide range of activity level and traing requirements. To learn more about each type of membership please review our By Laws.

• Interior Firefighter 
• Exterior Firefighter 
• EMS 
• Fire Police 
• Driver 
• Associate Member 
• Restricted Active Member (RAM)
• Diver - Coming Soon 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q. What is the minimum age to be eligible to be a volunteer member?
A. To join as a full member you must be eighteen or older. We do offer a Restricted Active Member (RAM) membership for those sixteen and seventeen years of age that are interested in joining.

Q. Do I have to live in Colton to join?
A. No, you do not have to live in our service area in order to volunteer with the Colton Volunteer Fire Department Corporation, Inc. However, it will be harder to participate the greater distance you are away from our area.

Q. How much time will I be expected to give as an active member?
A. Our volunteers come from all walks of life. By day, we're IT professionals, accountants, mechanics, nurses, current and former military personnel, students, homemakers, sales representatives, parents and grandparents.  We all volunteer in our spare time and attend one meeting and one training per month.  We won't lie to you - volunteering takes time, but everything worthwhile often does.

Q. Do I have to pass a background check in order to join?
A. Yes. All applicants must successfully pass a background investigation for arson and sexual offences.

Q. Is it okay that I have no experience?
A. Yes! Most of our members come to us with no training or experience.  We will provide all of your training.

Q. How much do I have to pay for training and gear?
A.Nothing; training and protective gear are offered at no cost to members for the time you are serving. The Colton Volunteer Fire Department Corporation, Inc. cover the costs of training and protective gear for all members, based on their role (EMT, firefighter, or support).

Q. Do I need to pass a physical examination?
A. Yes, there is an extensive physical which is required once you are voted into the department. This exam ensures that it is medically safe for you to participate as a Firefighter and EMT. The physical will be performed at no cost to you.

Q. I'm interested in becoming a member but need more information. What should I do?
A. If you are looking for more information, or would just like to talk to someone about the department you can contact us using the Contact Us page.