The personal rewards and satisfaction received from the fire and rescue service are often beyond description. There is a sense of accomplishment after controlling a building fire, joy and elation when a child is born, compassion for accident victims, and fulfillment in teaching fire safety. However, this business is not for everyone. In addition to a desire to help people, you also need courage, dedication, assertiveness, and a willingness to face new challenges. Often, our members are called on to perform hot, sweaty, dirty, strenuous work, sometimes in uncertain and hazardous environments.

Men and women age 16 and older who are in good physical condition and have the desire to participate in emergency fire and/or medical activities are eligible for membership. There are many levels of participation in the active membership class. They are determined by certifications obtained through various training programs. Those persons who do not have the desire to participate in emergency activities, or who cannot meet the physical requirements for active membership are encouraged to enter the service as Associate Members. These members contribute to the volunteer service in the areas of fundraising, public relations, public education, and administration — vital functions which support the Kensington Volunteer Fire Department.

Making a commitment to serve as a volunteer firefighter or emergency medical technician is a serious decision and involves a profound commitment. Your decision to join us should not be made quickly. This portion of our web site will provide the information needed to help you make that decision. Once you understand what is involved, we hope you will find that you are able to make the commitment we need to contribute to the safety of the community and its citizens. You will find that participation as a volunteer member of our service will bring personal rewards and satisfaction, raise self-esteem, and give you a tremendous sense of accomplishment for a job well done.

Types of Memberships:

Active Members: Active members participate directly in fire and rescue operations, including incident response and operation of apparatus and equipment. Men and women, ages 16 or older, that are in good physical condition and have the desire to participate in this capacity are eligible for active membership. Applicants under the age of 18 require parental consent. Once minimum training requirements have been met, an individual may continue to increase his/her level of participation by obtaining additional training through county and state programs. Members must serve one year of probation before receiving full “active” membership status.

Administrative Members: These are members who choose to contribute to the volunteer service in the areas of fund-raising, public relations and education, administration, or as a member of the “Auxiliary.” These are vital functions that support the Kensington Volunteer Fire Department and its goals. People who do not have the desire to participate in emergency operations, or those who cannot meet the physical condition requirements are encouraged to join as administrative members.

Minimum Training Requirements

All approved applicants will be required to enroll in the next available EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) class at the Montgomery County Public Safety Training Academy. This is an entry level training program certified by the State of Maryland. It is 130 class hours and all volunteers in Montgomery County – including firefighters – are required to complete this class. Several classes are usually run simultaneously but on different schedules to accommodate students’ needs. In addition, you will need to complete a 40-hour orientation program taught in each station.