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Volunteer with us!

Firefighters extinguishing a massive blaze with a powerful water stream.

Answer the Call. Be the Difference.

Become a Volunteer Firefighter – Serve Your Community with Pride

Rusk County Emergency Services District #1 (ESD #1) supports 13 volunteer fire departments across our county – and we need people like YOU to help protect our neighbors, families, and friends.

Being a volunteer firefighter isn’t just about answering calls – it’s about making a difference when it matters most. Our volunteers are the heart of our fire service, responding to emergencies, saving lives, and keeping our community safe.

Why Volunteer?

  • Give Back to Your Community: Few things are more rewarding than helping your neighbors in their greatest time of need.
  • Learn New Skills: We provide training for firefighting, medical first response, rescue operations, and more.
  • Build Lifelong Friendships: Join a team of dedicated men and women who share your passion for service.
  • Be Part of Something Bigger: Your efforts make Rusk County a safer place for everyone.

What We’re Looking For

We welcome anyone 18 or older who is willing to train, commit to helping during emergencies, and work as part of a team. No prior experience is required – we provide the training and equipment you need.

Ways to Serve

  • Firefighter: Respond to fires, vehicle accidents, medical calls, and other emergencies.
  • Support Roles: Help with community education, fundraising, logistics, and department operations.
  • Junior Firefighter Programs: (for teens) Learn early, get hands-on experience, and prepare to become a full firefighter at 18.

What to Expect

Volunteering requires commitment – but the rewards are great. You’ll receive:

  • Free Training & Certification through the State Firefighters’ and Fire Marshals’ Association (SFFMA)
  • All Required Gear & Equipment at no cost
  • Insurance Coverage while on calls and in training
  • Ongoing Education & Leadership Opportunities

How to Get Started

  1. Fill Out an Interest Form - Contact us at info@ruskcountyfire.org
  2. Meet Your Local Fire Department – We’ll connect you with the station nearest you.
  3. Complete Training & Join the Team – We’ll walk with you every step of the way.

Your Community Needs You

Fires don’t wait. Emergencies don’t wait. Your neighbors are counting on someone to answer the call – and that someone could be YOU.

Join Rusk County ESD #1 and help protect what matters most.

📞 Contact Us:
📍 Rusk County ESD #1 Office & Training Center
1515 Whippoorwill, Henderson, TX 75652

Outfitting a firefighter costs $9,410, including helmet, breathing apparatus, jacket, pants, gloves, and more.
A 2014 graphic from the International Association of Fire Chiefs outlining the cost of outfitting a firefighter with personal protective equipment and the necessary tools of the job.

 

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