Bedford Township,
Michigan                                       

Becoming A Fire Fighter

Following September 11, 2001 pride and respect for the service is at an all time high. Within the service pride is a lifelong achievement. Serving your family, neighbors, and community is a very noble and rewarding decision. With such honor also comes great deal of commitment and responsibility .The following is a brief description of the process and expectations Bedford fighters have made a part of their lives.

COMMITMENT

Volunteering your time to your community is an important factor to consider with your application for membership. Department guidelines require each member to take part in a series of classes, training, and certification renewal. The state of Michigan requires all active fighters to complete  Fighter I and II training, Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations training, Health Provider CPR, and Basic Medical Responder Training within your first two years of membership. Likewise, the State of Michigan requires regular departmental drills and training related to specific operating procedures and equipment unique to each department. Bedford Township also requires EMT -basic certification and a clean driving record. General guidelines require each member to participate in regular drills and participation in 25% of alarms per 3 month period with final discretion of participation in the hands of the District Chiefs, Battalion Chiefs, Deputy Chief and or Township Chief.

PROBATION

All new fighter candidates who are successful through preliminary application processes will be placed on a minimum of nine months probationary duty. During probation, members are required to complete twenty special probationary drills designed to familiarize each prospective member with procedures and equipment. Probationary members must also attend a minimum of one traditional drill per month. Probation is set at a minimum of nine months with additional time at the discretion of departmental officers. The fIrst nine months of prospective membership are very important as they pass very quickly and provide the best means of orienting candidates for the rewarding choice each has made.

MEMBERSHIP
Not unlike probationary candidates, recognized department members have a great responsibility bestowed upon them. Members who have yet to complete I & II training or EMT -B certification must actively pursue these requirements within their first two years of enrollment. Those who have already secured required certification are expected to stay up to date with licenses and training. Failure to do so can result in probation or termination at the discretion of the line officers.

Members in good standing can enjoy the benefits of the "Brotherhood" of fighters. Each station regularly schedules family events, recognition events, and community events providing fun and enjoyment beyond the day to day alarms and responses to community emergencies. With the commitment to help your community, new friendships and trust from your fellow fighters grows. Personal pride and respect from the community are common benefits Bedford fighters enjoy. The term "Brotherhood" is likewise more than just a cliche. As each member possesses their own trades and skills, working side by side daily toward the same goal creates an unquestionable bond and willingness to help each other in times of need. This brotherhood is not reserved to Bedford fighters alone. Throughout the world fighters respect each other for the actions we take, training we endure, and safety we provide.

Congratulations on your decision to consider the service. It is a choice full of rewarding and satisfying opportunities. Good luck in the pursuit of your newfound interest.

The first step in becoming a Bedford fighter is completing an application for membership. Applications are distributed at each of the active stations and at township hall all year .Our busier recruitment periods include the Bedford Trade Fair held at Bedford Senior High School typically in March and at our Department Open House events typically during National Safety Awareness week in October. Applications are readily accepted at each of these events as well.

After completing application for membership, candidates will be contacted for interview. A physical examination will be required at a medical facility arranged by the department. Following a background check and contact with listed references- candidates will proceed to a physical agility test as described in the following information.

THE CPAT: Candidate Physical Agility Test

The "CP AT" is a nationally recognized standard of fighter testing as it relates to the physical demands of the occupation. The CP AT tests candidates in eight basic skill areas with a time limit of twelve minutes. Candidates are required to wear long pants, and comfortable shoes. A weighted vest (50 Ibs.) will be provided to simulate regulation gear and air packs. Gloves and a safety helmet will also be provided to reduce the risk of injury while testing.

EVENTS INCLUDE:

50 FOOT hose unroll and roll to starting point .150 FOOT hose rag and pull

Equipment carry

Ladder stand and raise

Forcible entry and ventilation simulation (56 repetitive blows with sledge hammer)

Stair climb and hose pull .Orientation and confined space maze .Body drag (165 pound mannequin).

BECOMING A BEDFORD VOLUNTEER FIGHTER
Should you have further questions regarding, testing dates, information, or any other related items please ask when you pick up an application form or email Mike Leggio, recruitment coordinator at the following address <email link> . We will make every effort to respond in a timely fashion.

Upon completion of the application process, medical screening, and background checks. More detailed information will be provided with regards to each event. Included with the detailed information will be a suggested workout program to help you prepare safely.