Do I need to have experience to join?

Nope!

We do love to find applicants who have some sort of previous experience, but it is not a requirement. That being said, previous experience or certifications may be helpful and decrease the time until you are considered “operational” or otherwise able to respond to team call outs.

How long does it take to join?

Our application process takes about 1-3 months.

Step one, submit an application, background check, and child abuse clearance. Step two, be present for a phone interview. Step three, participate in a hands on training day with the team.

As long as all goes well, once these three steps are completed, you will be voted on by the officers committee and provided probationary member status. Probationary terms can vary but typically are six months.

Do I have to pay for my training and certifications?

Depends!

We require new members to get current CPR / Basic First Aid, Incident Command System - 100 (ICS-100), and SAR tech level III through NASAR (National Association for SAR) within one year of becoming a full member. The cost for these initial certifications are typically paid for by each member ( ICS training is online and free provided by FEAM).

After your basic certifications, the team aims to provide as much of your continuing education at no or low cost to our members. More advanced and technical level certification courses may require members to pay out of pocket. Scholarship programs may be available to members who wish to seek such advanced levels of training.

Do I have to buy all kinds of gear?

Yes, somethings are purchased by each member.

Most of each members personal gear is paid for by the members themselves. Personal pack and their contents are usually self purchased. Certain items may be issues out such as radios or pagers. The team has a variety of technical gear such as harnesses and helmets for use by everyone but most new members choose to purchase their own. Upon joining each member receives an equipment list of required items.