The MLVFD is always looking for more volunteers, now more than ever!
Our department provides 24/7 emergency services, including fire suppression, motor vehicle accidents, ice rescues, smoke, and carbon monoxide alarm investigations, as well as public education to Mountain Lakes residents, and surrounding towns.
But what makes our department so special, is that we are 100% volunteer, meaning when an emergency happens, it isn’t just a random person who responds, but rather your neighbors – people you know. Whether they live next door or two blocks down, your neighbors and peers respond at a moments notice to give back to the community they too call home.
As a town and department built upon volunteerism, without the support of our fellow neighbors, the MLVFD would be unable to provide the services it does today.
For more information about how to join, explore our “Junior Department” and “Senior Department” pages, or email info@mlvfd.com.
FAQs
Who can join?
Almost anyone. Junior Members consist of 16-18 year olds and our Senior Members are 18+. Contrary to popular belief, both men and women are allowed to join.
Does it cost anything to be a member?
Absolutely not. Just your time and energy focused on helping the community. All protective equipment, communications gear, uniforms, training courses, etc. are provided by the MLVFD.
Does everyone have to run into a burning building?
We welcome anyone that would like to contribute their time and efforts to making our organization help our community.There are many roles on the scene of a fire. The vast majority do not include “putting the wet stuff on the red stuff.” We have members who just drive and operate the fire engine. Others work outside to place ladders for emergency egress. Others manage our breathing apparatus and air tanks. Others focus on accountability – tracking the movement of personnel and keeping tabs on their location and status. Still, others help with administration and non-operational activities like being treasurer or managing the website.
What are the benefits of being a volunteer?
As a volunteer, you have the ability to giveback to the community you call home, which is certainly rewarding. In addition, you get free training, make new friends, be a part of a team, and making a real difference. In addition, as a first responder, you are given tax breaks and discounts, as well as several other financial benefits.
How much time do I need to commit to be a member?
Our schedule is fairly simple. We meet twice a month on Tuesday nights at 8pm. Members are encouraged to make as many meetings and drills as possible, but we all have jobs, families, commitments outside the department, so we understand that everyone can’t make every meeting. The Tuesdays are usually divided between drills (fire suppression, search & rescue, vehicle extrication, water rescue, etc.) and one business meeting (snacks and soda provided.) Of course, we respond to calls and there’s no telling when they will come, but typically we get about one to two calls each week. Again, make those, if you can, and no worries if you can’t.
What type of training is provided?
There is quite a bit of training available. First, we have complete access to the Morris County Fire Academy in Morristown, NJ. This facility has advanced fire training structures with every imaginable safety mechanism; high capacity ventilation to clear a the entire building of smoke in 60 seconds or less, gas-powered fire simulators controlled by in-room instructors and remote instructors in a separate control room; car fire simulators, etc… The Department uses our own experienced officers/members to run our practice drills in-town. And we provide e-learning and other materials online for member review. The amount of training you would like to do is up to you.
