Join Us

The Orchard Park Fire Company is always looking for new firefighters! Anyone who resides in the Town of Orchard Park over the age of 18 may apply! There are many benefits that come with being an Orchard Park Firefighter on top of the great feeling of helping those in need!

Benefits

  • Any Firefighter or Emergency Medical Services training is at no cost to members. Upon completion of your Firefighter 1 through Erie County Emergency Services, you will receive 4 college credits from Erie Community College.
  • EMT or Paramedic School for members. Upon completion of your Paramedic, you may be eligible for an Associates Degree.
  • Free College education, paid thru FASNY Help Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • All necessary Firefighting and EMS equipment is provided at no cost to members
  • Length of Service Awards Program (LOSAP). This is a pension that is vested after 5 years.
  • NYS Income Tax Credit ($200)
  • 10% Property Tax Exemption
  • Use of our Meeting Room for events
  • Dayroom access 24/7
  • Free use of our newly updated weight room!
Firefighters

New Member Process

The Orchard Park area is served by several volunteer departments. Central, Hillcrest and Windom.

Submit an application. You will need to fill out a membership application and a standard background check form.

Complete a background check: Under New York State law, all fire departments must check an applicant's background for any arson or other convictions.

After reviewing your application, a recruitment committee member will contact you to schedule an interview.

If the membership committee recommends you, you will be sent for a medical exam, which you must pass to continue the process.

Receive approval from the membership: Following your interview and successful medical exam, the company's active members will vote on your application.

If you are accepted, you will be entered into a training program. No previous experience is required, as all training will be provided by the department.

Once you are accepted as a new Firefighter, you are enrolled in our in-house FTO (Field Training Officer) program led by a FTO Lieutenant and you will be paired with a senior Firefighter. The Probationary period takes approximately 2 years to complete. Upon completion, you will have all the necessary training to be a full-fledged Orchard Park Firefighter.

Firefighters

General Requirements

  • Age: You must be at least 18 years old to serve in an unrestricted capacity. We also offer junior programs for teenagers aged 16–18.
  • Residency: You will likely need to reside within the fire district.
  • Background: Applicants must have a clean criminal record, with no arson convictions.
  • Physical fitness: You must be able to pass a physical exam.
Firefighters

Duty Shift Program Requirements

This program is different than regular membership, specifically for people who can not answer calls daily, but still want to be firefighters members of this organization.

All members must:

  • Live within a 25-mile radius of 4222 S. Taylor Rd. Orchard Park, NY 14127.
  • Serve 5 hours per week or 20 hours per month on shift.
  • Complete training and Drill accordance with district policies.

Junior Firefighter Program

The Junior Volunteer Firefighter program is a youth program for teenagers in the Orchard Park Fire District who are interested in learning about fire and emergency services. The program is overseen by senior firefighters and offers hands-on training, mentorship, and the chance to assist with certain duties under strict supervision.

This is a steppingstone to service; the Junior Volunteer program is a recruitment tool designed to prepare young people for a future as volunteer firefighters.

In-person training:

Juniors train alongside senior firefighters during drills and classes, learning skills like hose handling, ladder techniques, and using firefighting equipment. Junior firefighters may respond to emergency calls to assist, but only within their limited scope of duties and under direct supervision.

For their safety, Junior Firefighters are not allowed to enter burning buildings, toxic atmospheres, or other dangerous areas. They are also issued distinctive green shield on their helmet, so they can be easily identified. In addition to training, Juniors may assist with support tasks on the perimeter of an emergency scene, help with station activities, and participate in community events.

Path to membership:

Participants can work their way up to eventually become full members once they are of age.

General requirements:

  • Being within the age of 16 to 18 years old.
  • Maintaining a "C" average or higher in school.
  • Obtaining parental or guardian consent to participate.
  • Adhering to strict attendance and conduct rules.

Ready?

For more information, it is best to contact the Orchard Park Fire Company directly at [email protected], as they can provide details specific to their program. Also, you can read this information flyer.

Download the application form.