Volunteers

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)

The CERT concept was developed because citizens will very likely be on their own during the early stages of a catastrophic disaster. The purpose of the CERT is to provide a higher level of disaster preparedness if an event of this nature should occur. The initial concept of CERT was to provide public education and was not geared to supplement emergency services during a disaster. The Stockton CERT was developed and implemented in 2003 and expands the original concept to allow specific volunteers to work side-by-side with our emergency service workers. 

For additional CERT information, please call the Stockton Fire Department or view the  Community Emergency Response Team brochure.

Stockton Fire Explorers - Youth Volunteer Program

Established in 1995 in association with the Boy Scouts of America, the Stockton Fire Department developed Explorer Post #1888. The Stockton Fire Explorer Post is a youth-oriented program directed at helping young adults who have an interest in the fire service.

The program participants meet 3 to 4 times per month at the Stockton Fire Department- Company 2. Explorers are taught the basic skills of firefighting and first aid. Explorers also participate in ride-alongs throughout the city's firehouses. Much of the training is hands-on and is supervised by Stockton Fire Department personnel. Meetings also include public service projects and fund raising activities.

Explorers may participate in a bi-annual Explorer Conference sponsored by the Modesto Fire Department. This Conference includes supervised overnight stays at the Regional Fire Training Center located in Modesto, where Explorers learn what it's like to be a firefighter in an Academy setting. The Academy is hands-on and gives the Explorer a chance to interact with other Explorers from throughout the Central Valley. 

Explorers will learn how hard work, discipline, and a structured work environment in the fire service promote safety and teamwork toward successfully completing a common objective. Explorers will also gain a sense of pride in serving the community. Parents will witness the positive outcome by having their child enroll in this growing program.

Although the program is voluntary, some purchases are necessary. Navy blue pants and a black belt make up much of the cost and are required for membership.

The Explorers are always in search of energetic young men and women who are eager to learn more about the fire service. Any resident of Stockton between the ages of 16 and 20 years of age with a grade point average of 2.0 or greater is eligible to apply. If you are willing to make the commitment simply write to the Stockton Fire Explorer Post 1888 Adviser.

Be sure to include your name, address, telephone number, age, and the name of the school in which you are currently enrolled. Join the TEAM! Make a change for the better!

For additional information, view the brochure Stockton Fire Explorers or contact the Stockton Fire Department.

Stockton Fire Auxiliaries - Adult Volunteer Program 

The Auxiliary Firefighters, originally known as Auxiliary Firemen - were organized during World War II as part of a civilian defense force. Even though Stockton never suffered from an enemy attack, the 386 men who completed the six-month training program were of such value to the fire department that the program has continued to this day.

Currently known as the Stockton Auxiliary Firefighters, this group of 40 highly trained men and women carrying on the traditions of old and who help keep the spirit of Stockton's volunteer fire department alive! The Auxiliary Firefighters are on call 24 hours a day 365 days a year to provide valuable back-up to the fire department at all multiple alarm fires. The Auxiliaries train for 4 hours weekly along with 24 hours of ride-along time each month. Members are tested frequently on firefighting skills and other aspects of the fire service to ensure and maintain highly effective Auxiliary Firefighters. The Auxiliaries also participate in various public events held by the Stockton Fire Department (SFD).

Requirements

• Must be 18 years of age

• Must possess a valid California Drivers License

• Must possess and show proof of insurance for your vehicle

• Must live within a 45-minute response time to the City of Stockton

• Must be CPR certified

• Must be EMT certified within one year

How to Apply

All candidates should submit an email of interest to sfd_auxrecruit@hotmail.com. The email should include the candidate’s full name and a contact phone number.

Appointment Process

• Written exam covering the Essentials of Firefighting, 4th edition

• Physical agility exam

• Oral interview

• Background investigation (DOJ live scan, DMV printout)

Academy

All successful candidates will be invited to attend the SFD Auxiliary academy. This training period consists of 16 weeks of didactic classroom study accompanied by vigorous hands on training.

Probationary Auxiliary

All candidates successful at completing the academy will then be placed as a probationary Auxiliary. Probation is a six month period in which the probationary auxiliary attends all training sessions and participates in ride-alongs on fire apparatus.  During this time they are required to:

• Successfully complete an SFD competency book of firefighting skills

• Work toward becoming an Emergency Medical Technician

• Participate in weekly physical fitness training

• Volunteer for special events

Auxiliary Firefighter

Upon completion of probation, the Auxiliary becomes part of the rank and file. Their duties are as follows:

• 4 hour weekly drills on Wednesday evenings

• 24 hours per month (minimum) of ride along time with Engine and/or Truck companies

• Specialized training

• EMS training

• Multiple alarm fires

• Physical fitness training and testing

• Fundraising

• Community programs

• Public education

• Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)

• Continued education

Command Staff

Those members that show leadership within the organization are given the opportunity to work as peer leader in a committee called the command staff. Each is an elected position nominated by the Liaison. The positions are as follows: President, Vice President/PIO, Secretary, Safety Officer, Operations Officer, Logistics Officer, Planning Officer, Recruit Officer, and Wellness/PT Officer.

SFD Auxiliary Liaison

The SFD Auxiliary Liaison is an appointed member of the Stockton Fire Department that oversees the operation of the Auxiliary program.

External Links

There are currently no external links.

This City of Stockton webpage last reviewed on --- 3/21/2011