The La Vergne Fire Department is opening a volunteer division and is now accepting applications. Some duties will include fire suppression and fire prevention to protect life and property; emergency rescue and basic medical treatment as required; and utilizing various tools and power equipment in rescue operations.

The volunteer division will augment the full-time firefighting staff, according to Fire Chief Rick McCormick, “Having a fully qualified volunteer staff will provide more personnel on the scene of emergencies. This will also give citizens who are interested in the fire services profession training for possible future employment with the fire department.”

Qualifications for service as a volunteer firefighter include: High School Diploma or GED; a Valid Driver’s License; 18 years of age; No felony convictions; Minimum Basic firefighting (64 Hr.) and Live Burn (16hr.); CPR/AED Healthcare provider with American Heart Association or American Red Cross; Current Vehicle Basic Extrication Certification; FEMA Incident Command System ICS 100, 200, 700, & 800, and more.

“We hope to fill 10 to 12 positions,” said Chief McCormick. “I want to personally extend an invitation to members of the La Vergne Rescue Squad to apply, but I would also encourage other men and women who have a heart for emergency response to consider this opportunity.”

The Tennessee Fire Service and Codes Enforcement Academy provides firefighting training through the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance. The application deadline is May 23. The volunteers are expected to begin on July 1. For more information, contact Assistant Fire Chief Mike Culberson at 793-9115 or mculberson@lavergnetn.gov.