Become a Volunteer Firefighter
Join South Blooming Grove Fire Department & Independence Fire Company
For nearly five decades, the members of Independence Fire Company, proudly serving the South Blooming Grove Fire District, have protected our neighbors as a 100% volunteer organization. Every emergency response, training exercise, and community event is made possible by dedicated men and women who choose to serve something greater than themselves.
Volunteering is about far more than fighting fires. It means becoming part of a close-knit team committed to protecting lives, preserving property, supporting your neighbors, and making a difference when our community needs it most.
Whether you’re interested in becoming an interior firefighter, assisting with emergency operations, or supporting the department in other meaningful ways, there is a place for you. No prior experience is required. We provide all state-required training, protective equipment, and ongoing support to help you succeed.
Membership Requirements
To become a member of Independence Fire Company, applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years of age (16 years of age with Parent/Guardian Permission)
- Be medically capable of performing firefighter duties
- Successfully complete a required background investigation
- Be willing to complete New York State firefighter training and become qualified as an Interior Firefighter
Why Become a Volunteer Firefighter?
🚒 Protect Your Community
Make a real difference by helping your neighbors during emergencies and times of need.
🎓 Free Professional Training
Receive New York State firefighter training, specialized certifications, and ongoing education at no cost.
🤝 Lifelong Friendships
Become part of a team that feels more like family, built on trust, teamwork, and shared experiences.
💪 Build Confidence & Leadership
Develop skills in leadership, communication, problem-solving, and emergency management that benefit both your personal and professional life.
❤️ Serve Something Bigger Than Yourself
Experience the pride and fulfillment that comes from helping others during life’s most challenging moments.
🚨 Exciting & Rewarding
Every call, every drill, and every community event offers an opportunity to learn, grow, and make a difference.
Your Community Needs Volunteers Like You
Every member of Independence Fire Company started exactly where you are now—with a desire to make a difference. Whether you’re a student, tradesperson, healthcare worker, business owner, retiree, or simply someone looking to give back, there’s a place for you on our team.
Take the first step today and become part of a proud tradition that has protected the South Blooming Grove community since 1975. Please fill out the application below and our Recruitment Committee will review your application and contact you regarding the next steps in the membership process.
Want to learn more before applying?
We invite prospective members to visit the firehouse every Wednesday evening from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Meet our members, observe a training drill, ask questions, and see firsthand what it means to be part of Independence Fire Company.
Have questions before applying?
Visit our Contact Us page or contact the department directly. We’d be happy to answer your questions and help you determine if volunteering with Independence Fire Company is right for you.
More Than Volunteering—Become Part of a Tradition of Service
Joining Independence Fire Company is simple. Please fill out the application below to begin your journey toward becoming a volunteer firefighter.
Anything marked with an asterik (*) is a required field.
