Questions and Answers about becoming
a Firefighter
with the Somers Volunteer Fire Department

How do I become a volunteer firefighter?

Complete an application and hand it in to anyone who is a member of the Somers Fire Department, or mail/deliver it to the Fire Station (400 Main St., Somers). They are also available through SomersNow.com, see the Somers Fire Department link.

We will read and table your application at the next monthly meeting (which is held the 2nd Monday of every month).

You will soon after be contacted by our investigation/interview committee to set up an interview with you.

Do I have to live in the Town of Somers?

No. You can be a volunteer Firefighter for Somers as long as you live within 3-miles of the Somers town line, and/or if you work in the Town of Somers.

What are the “age” requirements

You must be 16 to apply. The Somers Fire Department has a special program, the “Squad II Program”, for young adults aged 16 to 18. Once a member turns 18, they join the regular ranks of the fire department. Although there are some restrictions on Squad II Members, the restrictions are minimal and are in place for the benefit of the Squad II members (see constitution for more detail).

How much “TIME” do I need to give?

We hold training drills (some mandatory) on Monday nights. They start at 7:30p.m. and end around 9:30p.m. The 2nd Monday of the month is our scheduled meeting night , this runs from 8:00p.m. to approximately 9:30p.m. The time and duration of each emergency call is unpredictableThe bottom line is, you “volunteer” whatever amount of time you can.

Do I need experience?

No, you don’t have to be an experienced firefighter. In addition to our qualified training officers, within your first year of service you will be sent to Hartford County or Northeastern Connecticut Fire Academy to receive your Firefighter I State certificate (free of charge). We also have training drills 3 nights a month.

Do I need to have a PHYSICAL?

Yes. The department will pay for a complete physical for you through Johnson Occupational Center in Enfield. The physical includes:
  1. A Spirometer Test (breath test)
  2. EKG (cardiac test)
  3. 3 Minute Step test
  4. Drug screening test
We use these test results to determine what level firefighter you will be. The explanation of each level is as follows:
LEVEL I Firefighter: Interior Structural Fires - full firefighting duties, including using the self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
LEVEL II Firefighter: Outdoor fires with use of SCBA, without strenuous exertion.
LEVEL III Firefighter: Fire ground activity, no interior firefighting duties, no use of SCBA
 

What will “I get” from joining the Fire Department?

Free training, Incentive plan (up to $1,000 a year), Free uniforms (Turn-out “fire” gear), an on-site fitness center. You’ll meet new friends & Best of all...get a GREAT feeling by helping others in their time of need!

NOTE: See the S.V.F.D. Constitution for more detailed information