If you are interested in our volunteer firefighter program please call 503.266.5158 or Email volunteerprogram@canbyfire.org

I was recently asked what I felt it took to be a Volunteer Firefighter at Canby Fire.  I offer the following comments:

• First and foremost you have to be willing to help others in a time of need.  I think that is one thing that each of the current Volunteers and paid staff at Canby Fire have in common.
• You have to be willing and able to donate a portion of your personal time.  This can be difficult when working 40-60 hours a week at our regular full time jobs.  We have homes and families of our own to tend to, and still have to find time respond to calls and to attend training at least 2 hours each week. 
• You have to have support and understanding from your family and friends when you have to leave them to respond to others in urgent need of assistance.   
• You have to recognize that those who care about us are concerned for our safety when we are responding to calls.  We have to reassure them that the purpose of our training is to be able to perform our duties safely to help ease their worry. 
• We need support from our full time staff.  Our Paramedic/Firefighters are second to none when it comes to emergency response.  We are fortunate to train with and learn from them.  Their experience and guidance on scene helps to ensure successful and safe operations.
• We have to be open to a ‘continuous learning’ environment.  New technologies, improved equipment, and updated response techniques are a way of life in emergency response.
• We have to make a commitment to accept each others strengths and weaknesses, and work together to provide the best possible emergency service to our community.
• We have to be willing to meet and talk with the people of our community to educate them on emergency preparedness and to advise them of the services provided by Canby Fire.
•  We have to act responsibly in our personal lives to uphold the Honor and Respect that the current and past members of Canby Fire have built in our community and surrounding areas.

Jeff Barrow
Volunteer Firefighter
First Responder