VOLUNTEER with UVFR!!!


Fire	Rescue	EMS

"Ask volunteer firefighters why they accepted the challenge. What was the cornerstone of their decision to become a firefighter? Each one will tell you, in his or her own words, that being a part of the Fire Department fulfills a basic and personal human need -- the need to contribute to a worthwhile endeavor and help others. As firefighters work to fulfill that need to help others, they meet the needs of their community.

We all have a need to feel important. We want to accomplish certain goals and grow as a person. We need challenge in our lives, excitement in the midst of the daily routine, and a chance to form new and lasting friendships with people who share a common goal.

Volunteer firefighting provides all those opportunities -- and more. You will enjoy a sense of achievement, increased self-respect, community and personal recognition, the rewards that come from helping others, the opportunity to perfect some skills and learn new ones. And, you'll have fun doing it. Yes, firefighting is hard work. But time spent with fellow firefighters is enjoyable and builds a sense of teamwork and accomplishment.

Firefighting is demanding. There are hours of training involved, requirements to be met, standards to uphold. And volunteer firefighters are not compensated in the traditional way for their effort. There is no paycheck, no monetary bonus, no financial incentive to work harder.

But there is a payoff. It comes from the pride you will have in yourself and in your organization. It comes from the feelings of friendship and teamwork you will enjoy. It's in the heartfelt handshake of a grateful homeowner, a mother's tear of gratitude, children's awe as they see the inside of a fire truck and talk to a real firefighter, the tremendous sense of fatigue in doing something worthwhile, the smile of a neighbor or friend in your community who congratulates you on being part of a thriving, valuable, and irreplaceable organization.

Why volunteer? Look inside yourself. If you want to help others, experience the excitement that comes from a job well done, and have pride in yourself and others like you, you'll find the answer.

Volunteer firefighting will never make you monetarily rich. But those who have come before you will tell you that no amount of money is worth the fulfillment of the basic need to be a service to others. There is no price on that. And, as you will tell others who follow you, there is no substitute for it either."

United Volunteer Fire and Rescue is always looking for new volunteers age 14 and up to help us serve the community. We will provide and pay for all necessary training.

We realize your time is valuable- that's why we have no minimum requirements for the amount of time you have to put in. You may contribute as much or as little time as you wish, and remember: you will be helping out your family, your friends, and your neighbors in your community.

If you are a high school or college student considering entering the healthcare or public safety fields, this is an excellent opportunity to gain vital experience.

It is also a great opportunity for nurses, nursing and medical assistants, and other healthcare workers to expand their field of practice and learn new skills and techniques.

Public safety classes are sponsored by the Allegheny County Fire Academy and the Community College of Allegheny County and are held at local fire stations and hospitals.

Volunteer opportunities are available in fire, rescue, EMS, support services or any combination of these. You can perform whatever duties you prefer - there is no pressure to work in an area you aren't comfortable with.

FIRE: Essentials of Firefighting, Firefighter I, Firefighter II, Smoke Diver, Interior Firefighting, Forest and Wildland Firefighting, Hazardous Materials Operations, Hazardous Materials Technician, Fire Police

RESCUE: Vehicle Rescue Technician, Special Vehicle Rescue Technician, Confined Space Rescue, Rope Rescue, High Angle Rescue, Farm Rescue, Wilderness Rescue

EMS: CPR, First Responder, Emergency Medical Technician, Paramedic, Prehospital Health Professional, Advanced Cardiac Life Support, Basic Trauma Life Support, Pediatric Advanced Life Support

We are also in need of support personnel to assist us with other vital functions such as fundraising, building and equipment maintenance, and canteen service.

If you would like to become a UVFR member, please email us or call us at 412-823-9654 for more information.