Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
You've got questions? We've got answers. If you don't find your answer below feel free to contact us with your question.
Anyone between 18 and 99 years old, in reasonable health, and living within the Umatilla Rural Fire District may apply to be on the department. (We also have a limited number of opportunities for the right high school seniors!)
The Umatilla Volunteer Firefighters Association is a community partnership between community members and the firefighters of the Umatilla RFPD. They conduct community events for the betterment of district residents and can always use help with these events. If you'd like to join please contact them at UVFA.org
Our weekly drills (meetings) are Thursday nights from 7:00 to 9:00. It is important that you be available for these because they are where we learn to do what we do, and learn to do it together. Additionally, it will likely be necessary for you to attend some weekend classes around the region to fulfill initial training requirements. Aside from that, your time commitment is dependent upon your availability and desire. Our emergency services are, of course, unpredictable and you will choose which of these to respond to. Our community events consist of a structured schedule of planned activities and a minimum number of people to complete them.
Providing emergency services is inherently dangerous, but all of our volunteers are provided with exceptional protective equipment meeting or exceeding federal regulations; and all volunteers will receive appropriate training prior to being placed in any situation which may be hazardous.