Fire Academy at Riverside Fire & Rescue

If you’ve ever considered becoming a firefighter, this is where it begins.

Riverside Fire & Rescue actively recruits volunteer firefighters several times each year. Our academy is designed to develop disciplined, capable, and professional firefighters who are ready to serve their community with skill and integrity.

Firefighting is more than lights and sirens. It requires mental toughness, physical fitness, attention to detail, and the ability to perform under pressure. The fire service is competitive, and those who succeed are the ones who prepare themselves early. Many career departments expect candidates to hold Firefighter and EMT certifications, along with real-world experience. Volunteering with Riverside allows you to earn those certifications, gain operational experience, and build a foundation that sets you apart in the hiring process.

The Commitment

Becoming a volunteer firefighter is a serious commitment.

After successfully completing the application and selection process, recruits complete approximately 400 hours of structured training over 16–20 weeks. Our academy typically meets Monday and Wednesday evenings and all day Saturday. In addition, recruits are required to complete monthly duty shifts and attend department training.

This is not a casual program. It requires time, discipline, and consistency.

What to Expect

Academy will challenge you physically and mentally.

Recruits are held to high standards of professionalism from day one. You will train in classroom and hands-on environments, learning fire behavior, hose operations, ladders, ventilation, search and rescue, medical response, and more. You will be expected to master skills—not just memorize information.

A typical academy day includes physical training, classroom instruction, and drill ground evolutions. PT is demanding by design. We recommend applicants begin conditioning well before the academy starts.

Attention to detail matters. Uniform standards, preparation, punctuality, and teamwork are part of the culture. These expectations are not about appearances- they build discipline, accountability, and pride in the profession.

The Culture

Firefighting is a team profession.

No one succeeds alone. Throughout the academy, recruits build strong bonds through shared challenge and shared success. You will learn to rely on each other. You will be pushed. You will grow.

Graduation is earned—not given.

The sense of accomplishment at the end of academy reflects the work, commitment, and resilience required to reach that point.

Your Opportunity

Volunteering with Riverside Fire & Rescue gives you the opportunity to:

• Earn Firefighter certifications

• Gain hands-on operational experience

• Serve your community

• Prepare for a competitive career in the fire service

• Become part of a professional, mission-driven team

If you’re ready for the commitment and the challenge, we’re ready to train you.