Recruitment

Successful new recruits will attend training sessions on weekends and some week nights over several months. The program consists of certification in NFPA 1001 Firefighter I and II through classroom instruction, hands on practice, proficiency checks and written/practical testing on most aspects of structural firefighting. At the end of the training program, provincial testing under NFPA standards will be administered to each recruit.  

Certified Recruit "Fast-track" Program

From time to time, the Department may recruit certified Volunteer Firefighters.  Minimum certification required includes NFPA Firefighter Level 1 and 2 and NFPA 1072 HazMat Operations Level. 

A "fast-track" orientation and training program includes review and testing of all firefighter skills, and familiarization with Department operating procedures and equipment.  

Notice of Vacancy and Position Description

• When a recruitment period is open, a Notice of Vacancy and Volunteer Firefighter Position Description will be posted on the Employment and Volunteer Opportunities page.

Application
Those interested in applying to the Bracebridge Fire Department must complete a Volunteer Firefighter Application Form. This form can be downloaded and submitted to humanresources@bracebridge.ca. Applications can also be picked up at Fire Station 1 located at 225 Taylor Road, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Information Session
All applicants must attend the mandatory information session. The purpose of the information session is to provide an overview of the fire service, outline recruit training, job performance expectations and provide the applicant with an opportunity to ask questions.

Physical Demands Assessment
Conducted in-house, this assessment consists of various job-related tasks, which must all be successfully completed.  This Bracebridge Fire Department Physical Demands Assessment will assist potential recruits in preparing for the assessment, along with this Firefighter Physical Assessment Test Prep Guide.

Interview
Face-to-face interview with the Fire Chief, Deputy Fire Chief and other officers as deemed necessary.

Medical Examination
Medical examination by a Medical Doctor of your choice. We will provide the form for the physician to fill out at the appropriate time.

Successful Applicants will be asked to provide:

• Drivers abstract;
• A physical assessment signed by a medical practitioner; and
• A satisfactory criminal background and vulnerable sector check.

Minimum qualifications for being a part-time firefighter with the Bracebridge Fire Department include:

• Canadian citizen or legal entitlement to work in Canada as a firefighter;
• At least 18 years of age;
• Full-time resident of Bracebridge within reasonable travel time to one of our two fire stations;
• High school graduation diploma (OSSGD) or academic equivalent;
• Ability to read, write and speak English clearly under normal and stressful conditions; and
• A valid G license, with clean driving record.

Additional recommended qualifications include:

• Valid First Aid and CPR certificates;
• D license with Z air brake endorsement;
• Being capable of handling intense and sustained physical activity; and
• Preference may be given to those who have daytime availability for responses.

The training program for Volunteer Firefighters is both extensive and rewarding. Successful candidates will take part in various training sessions that take place on evenings and weekends.

Below is an example of what a previous non-certified recruit schedule looks like. 

• Application Deadline: Friday December 8, 2023
• Mandatory Information Session: Tuesday December 12, 7:00 p.m. at Fire Station 1
• Physical Demands Assessment: Saturday December 16, 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at Fire Station 1
• Swim Test: Saturday December 17, 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. at the Bracebridge Sportsplex
• Recruitment interviews and offers: Early January, 2024

Volunteer Firefighter training schedule:

Recruits will participate in approximately 50 hours of online training prior to Practical Training.  Practical Training will occur over 7 weekends and a few weeknight evenings over a 4 - 6 month period.  
Exact dates and times will be provided to the successful Volunteer Firefighter recruits.

There are many benefits to becoming a part-time fire fighter in Bracebridge, including:

• Free transferrable training provided at no cost:
  • All firefighting to NFPA Curriculum standards, rescue, CPR, first aid and other emergency and safety training,
  • Potential access to courses held at the Ontario Fire College in Gravenhurst as well as other off site training facilities.
• Protective clothing, equipment and gear are provided by the fire department.
• Uniforms are provided for you to dress and be a part of an organized and dedicated group of like-minded people.
• Payment is made for attendance at training, emergency calls and some other departmental activities.
• Leadership opportunities exist for advancement and responsibility on the firefighting and support sides of the department.
• The opportunity to enjoy camaraderie and build lifelong friendships locally and through networking with other departments.
• Social activities are held on various occasions throughout the year.
• Comprehensive insurance coverage is provided through the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board and Accident and Sickness Policy through Volunteer Firefighters' Insurance Services (VFIS) for you and your family.
• And much more.