A Message From Fire Chief Chris King

Volunteers Needed

Seven Lakes Fire & Rescue Department is currently seeking volunteers.  The position of a firefighter is one of tremendous responsibility and individual dedication.

Being a firefighter demands a great deal from each individual, but is one of the most rewarding things you can do for your community.  Our department takes pride in serving our community, and each member carries the same pride throughout his/her career.  We are proud of our members – both past and present.  Becoming a volunteer is requires many hours of training and dedication.

When community members call 911 for an emergency, you can almost always count on volunteers arriving and carrying out professional services.  Our volunteers care about this community and stepping in for those who need a helping hand.

There is a tradition of brotherhood which has been a part of our department since its establishment.  To join in our brotherhood, join Seven Lakes Volunteer Fire & Rescue Department

What’s In It For You?

Quality Fire Training – Our department has some of the best training officers around – most with over 15 years in the service.

Stipends – Seven Lakes Volunteer Fire & Rescue offer a stipend for those members that meet certain requirements throughout each year.

Lieutenant TJ Bouchelle, Administrative Chief Cal Loy,
Chief Chris King, and Lieutenant Eric Nall.

Equipment – We take pride in maintaining the best equipment possible.  Our department currently houses 3 Engines, 1 Tanker, 1 Brush Unit, 1 Mobile Air Unit, and 2 Quick Response Vehicles.  We also take pride in keeping our members decked out in up-to-date Turnout Gear and other Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Opportunities – Our department provides opportunities for those who choose to voice their opinions regarding the advancement of our department.  We have a board of Directors which is voted into office by members at our annual meeting.  Anyone can choose to run for one of these positions.  After probation period is over (after six months), volunteers will be enrolled into the State Pension.  If a member completes 20 years of service, he/she will receive a monthly payment after the age of 55.  We also carry life insurance for our members that begins as soon as they are accepted into the department.

Awards – We offer an annual Firefighter of The Year Award as well as a Rookie of The Year Award.  These awards are voted on by members.

Expectations – No previous experience or training is required, but volunteers will need courage, dedication, and a willingness to learn new skills and face new challenges.  Volunteers will be expected to meet the minimum of 60 hours annually to continue to be in the pension program.  Although not required, members have the opportunity to become North Carolina Firefighter Certified.  Class expenses for this certification are covered by the department.  All members are expected to commit and be dedicated, attending meetings and answering calls when the pager activates.

Minimum Requirements for Membership Application

IMG_3449

Chief Chris King recognizing Firefighter Eddie Thomas for forty years of service.

  • Have attained the age of 18
  • have a high school diploma or GED equivalent
  • legal resident of the United States of America
  • Be subject to a background check, to include criminal
  • Must posess a valid NC driver’s license

Application Process – The process begins when you fill out an application and turn it into a department officer.  Once the application is reviewed, it will be mandatory that you attend 3 meetings before being voted on by membership.  Once approved, you will be placed on probation for a period of no less than 6 months.  During the probation period, volunteers are expected to attend meetings and other functions of the department.  Volunteers will be issued a pager at which time they may come to the station for emergency calls.  Volunteers response to Emergency Apparatus will be at the discretion of the officer in charge.  The probation period is a time of learning how the department operates and gives volunteers an opportunity to take training classes.

Thank you for taking the first step in becoming a member of Seven Lakes Volunteer Fire & Rescue Department.  If you have any questions, please contact the station at 910–673-8151.

Thanks,

Fire Chief Chris King