The Application Period For 2010 Is Now Closed.
Please Check Back in Dec 2010 For Our 2011 Academy.
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We are seeking honest, hard working people of good moral character to be our Firefighters. If you think you have what it takes to join us, please read the following information:
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What Is A Reserve Firefighter?
All of Intermountain's Firefighters are Volunteer Reserves. Reserve Firefighters perform many of the same types of work as full time, career firefighters do. Intermountain Reserve Firefighters do their job for the satisfaction of providing community services and do not receive a pay check. Similar to full-time, Reserve Firefighters also work 24-hour shifts. This ensures the district is always covered and membership participation is equitable. Reserve Firefighters train an average of 20 hours per month.
The socialization within a reserve fire Department provides its members with a strong sense of community, solidarity and identity. Teamwork, personal investment, and self-sacrifice are the basis of the social framework of a reserve fire Department. Each member knows they may someday put their life in the hands of a Department brother or sister. Espirit de corps and brotherhood lies within every firefighter whether expressed verbally or not.
What Are The Duties Of A Reserve Firefighter?
Firefighting requires each individual member to perform a variety of duties and are responsible for responding to calls within the District. This can range from structural firefighting, wildland firefighting, removing severely injured people from auto accidents, treating people who have been victims of crimes, to delivering babies. The conditions that you work under vary greatly and are often adverse in nature. During firefighting and rescue operations, firefighters must wear personal protective equipment which weighs approximately 40 lbs. The physical and mental demands of firefighting are rigorous. Providing emergency medical services is another major role for Intermountain Fire and Rescue Department.
As a Reserve Firefighter you will frequently experience emergency medical service activity. Reserve Firefighters are trained as an Emergency Medical First Responders or Emergency Medical Technicians. As a First Responder you will administer varying degrees of emergency medical aid to injured people under extreme conditions involving trauma, illness, and personal tragedy.
What Are The Physical & Mental Functions Of A Reserve Firefighter?
Carry a ladder weighing approximately 75 pounds then raise and extend the ladder.
Assist victims down ladders and carry fire hose and other heavy equipment up and down ladders or stairs.
Move and advance a charged hose line, into a burning building, while standing or crawling on the floor.
Hold a flowing hose line for long periods of time and to shut off a flowing line while maintaining control of the hose line.
Enter a building under adverse fire conditions, which might include smoke, extreme heat, and no visibility, in full protective clothing including air pack with face piece.
Search for fire victims (sometimes searching by feel only), walking or crawling and if a victim is found drag or carry the victim to safety.
Work in high places, open places and confined places.
Operate a power saw in awkward positions, such as cutting on a sloping roof, and cutting from a ladder.
Use a variety of tools to remove walls and ceilings, requiring pulling and pushing motions with arms extending overhead for long periods of time, or to force entry into a building.
Perform fire and emergency medical duties while exposed to extreme cold and/or wet environmental elements.
Operate power extrication equipment to assist in patient removal from motor vehicles.
Lift and carry patients over rough or uneven terrain for considerable distances.
Bend, strain, stretch, contort, push, pull, twist, carry, walk with weight, or lift to remove a victim from a motor vehicle and place the victim on a stretcher.
Drive light duty vehicles and large fire apparatus during both the day and night, using depth perception and peripheral vision in emergency situations, in congested traffic and in unsafe road conditions caused by factors such as fog, smoke, rain, ice and snow.
Complete firefighter emergency rescue functions and tasks which are very physically demanding over a period of time without breaks, recovering quickly when given a short break.
Respond to an alarm, wake, and go from a sound sleep to full activity and exertion in a matter of minutes.
Perform basic emergency medical functions, once trained, such as performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation for extended periods of time.
Provide emergency medical response, remain calm, and be exposed to various diseases.
Hear and orally respond to verbal orders, calls for assistance, and radio communications, as well as the ability to hear, identify and appropriately respond to various sounds in an environment of substantial background noises, such as sounds produced by structural collapses, back draft, flashover, breaking glass, other Firefighters, sirens, traffic and victims.
Shout orders, warnings and responses when necessary.
Maintain composure and confront stressful situations, and withstand the effects of repeated exposure to traumatic situations.
Read, learn and remember new and updated detailed complex information, such as hazardous materials information, medical information, or changes in policy or procedures, and the ability to apply information in a logical manner.
Identify hazardous materials codes by color.
Communicate with a diverse range of people and deal with verbal and physical confrontations.
Interview people and to gather information on their medical history or circumstances surrounding an incident.
Prepare incident reports, inspection reports and medical reports either by hand or computer, using proper, detailed descriptions and appropriate grammar.
Other duties as required of the position.
What Are The Min Qualifications For A Reserve Firefighter?
Individuals who wish to apply as a Reserve Firefighter with Intermountain Fire Department must have the following qualifications:
High school graduate or have passed the GED Requirements.
Possess or obtain a valid driver’s license and show an acceptable driving record.
At least 18 years of age by the date of appointment.
Successfully pass a comprehensive background check.
Successfully complete a medical, physical and drug screen.
Do I Need To Live In Ramona To Join?
No, we have Reserve Firefighters that live in Orange County, Oceanside, and Chula Vista. Since Reserve Firefighters do shifts and respond directly from the station, there is no need to live in or near the covered district.
How Are Reserve Firefighters Selected?
There are number of criteria used in the selection of Reserve Firefighters. Some of these criteria are applied on a Pass/No Pass basis and others are applied on a weighted basis (providing preference based on specific applicant characteristics). The components of the evaluation process are as follows:
Minimum Qualifications: Pass/No Pass
Physical Abilities Exercise: Pass/No Pass
Oral Interview: 75 points passing/100 possible. Ranked and selected according to score.
Do I Need Any Fire Fighting Experience?
No, while previous fire fighting experience can be helpful, it is not required. During the Intermountain Basic Firefighter Academy you will receive all the necessary training you'll need to be a Reserve Fire Fighter.
What Is The Physical Ability Test (PAT)?
The physical ability test is a continual test designed to assess a person’s endurance and ability to perform basic strenuous tasks that Firefighters must perform. The exercise is a series of eight tasks, which are simulations of actual tasks that are performed on the job.
This is a timed event and the applicant will have a total of 12 minutes to complete the exercise. The physical ability exercise is scored on pass/no pass basis.
Any of the following can disqualify and applicant:
- Not completing all tasks
- Not following directions
- Inability to complete an individual station and/or stopping or resting
- Running during or in between stations. (except hose advance)
- Taking longer than 12 minutes to complete
Applicants must perform the tasks wearing a firefighter’s turnout coat, gloves, helmet and self-contained breathing apparatus (backpack and cylinder). The total weight of the protective equipment worn during the exercise is approximately 44 pounds. You will greatly increase your chances of passing the exercise if you have done adequate preparatory physical training. Physical training should emphasize cardio-respiratory (heart-lung) fitness, strength, and muscular endurance. Most people can improve their level of physical fitness though an intensive training program that includes running (or other aerobic exercise). and weight training to improve muscular strength and endurance.
Following is a description of the eight tasks that applicants must perform in order to complete the physical ability test. Click the links to view a video demo of that event. The full length video of the entire course is also found below:
TASK #1: HALYARD RAISE This task simulates the firefighting activity of raising the fly section of a 24’ extension ladder. A horizontal bar mounted in a stationary position equipped with a pulley, rope halyard and locking device are used to simulate a ladder halyard assembly. With thumbs pointed downward, employing a continual hand over hand motion, hoist a rolled 2-½ section of fire hose upward until the roll strikes the top of the pulley assembly. Then using a controlled motion without allowing the rope to slide through the hands lower the hose roll to the ground. This shall be repeated a total of (5) times.
TASK #2: JOIST WALK - TOOL CARRY As a firefighter your job will many times involve walking on uneven surfaces while carrying a variety of different tools and equipment. Pick-up the rescue saw provided and straddling a 14’ ladder walk down the outside beams of the ladder. At the end of the ladder you are to turn around (without touching the ground) and walk back to the stating point stepping on each rung. Place saw on the ground.
TASK #3: LADDER CARRY Now you high shoulder the 14' ladder and carry it around a circular course of cones. The ladder must be fully controlled at all times, especially while picking up and putting down the ladder.
TASK #4: HOSE STACK A table has two stacks of 3 rolled 2 1/2" hoses (6 rolls total). You must take each hose roll and restack them on the ground across a nearby line, then return the rolls to their original position.
TASK #5: VICTIM RESCUE The dummy drag measures your ability to pull/drag a victim weighing approximately 170-lbs a distance of 75 feet. Grasp the handles of the harness and draw them toward you chest. Using your body as a counter balance, drag the simulated victim using your legs, and not your back. The task is complete when the end of the prop crosses the finish line.
TASK #6: HOSE ROLL Carefully roll two 50' lengths of hose into neat rolls. This maybe your only chance to catch your breath. But if you don't start your rolls tight, it can end in a nightmare of a mess.
TASK #7: HOSE PULL The hose advance is used to measure your ability to drag a 150’ dry uncharged 2-½ inch attack line. Grasp the nozzle and drag it 200 feet to the line indicated. Once there, you must turn around and pull in the full length of the hose. All of the hose must end up within the bounds of an approx 8' x 4' marked area.
TASK #8: TIRE HAMMER Last event! Strike the tire 30 times with a sledge hammer. Doing half the swings left handed and the other half right handed. Swings must go above shoulder level to count. Then you're all done!
Video: PAT Demo - "Full Circuit"
Video: PAT Part II - "Your Turn"
This information regarding the physical ability test will be made available to each test candidate prior to the event.
How Many Reserve Firefighters Will Be Selected?
The Department will select up to 25 applicants for participation in the Intermountain Fire and Rescue Department Basic Firefighter Academy.
What Type Of Training Will I Receive?
This Intermountain Basic Firefighter Academy covers fire behavior, firefighting, hazardous materials, self-contained breathing apparatus, hose lines, water streams, ladders, basic knots, wildland firefighting, communications, and emergency vehicle operations.
Instructors will evaluate trainees, through manipulative skills evaluations and multiple-choice written examinations, on a regular basis throughout the program. Successful completion of the Basic Firefighter Academy is required for service as a Reserve Firefighter. All of your academy training will go toward a 'Firefighter I' certification.
How Long Is The Academy?
The Academy is approximately 5 months long and includes 400+ hours of training. Academy classes are held Tuesday and Thursday evenings 5:30pm-10pm, every Saturday 8am-5pm. There are a couple special event days such as live Fire Control scheduled on Sunday's 8am-5pm. The Academy has a break during major holidays.
Where Are Academy Classes Held?
Most classes are held at Intermountain Station 85. Other classes are held at specific locations around San Diego as determined by the class schedule.
Will I Receive My 'Firefighter I' From Intermountain?
After completion of the Basic Firefighter Academy, successfully passing the Skills Assessment Tests, and have logged the appropriate amount of on shift time (usually one year), you can apply for a Firefighter I state certificate from the Fire Chief.
When Does The Next Intermountain Academy Start?
The next Academy is TBA. We are always accepting applications for our academy.
What Are The Costs?
The only costs associated with becoming a Reserve Firefighter with the Intermountain Fire and Rescue Department is the cost of your initial physical examination, DMV printout, training manual, and uniform. The Department will provide all other equipment such as personal protective clothing.
The active members of the department have elected to have a $10 per month station dues to pay for station luxuries - these include Satellite TV, and station food supplies. Items purchased by this station dues fund are voted on by station members.
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What Are The Medical Training Requirements?
All Reserve Firefighters must maintain a current CPR card. Also within 6 months of joining the Department Reserve Firefighters must receive and stay current as a First Responder or Emergency Medical Technician. The Department has staff instructors who often do Department classes for CPR and First Responder certifications.
Where Can I Get An Application?
You can download the application forms here: IFRD Application Form and SDCFA Application Form. Please fill BOTH out completely. These forms require Adobe PDF Viewer. Or Visit The Station to pick up a hard copy.
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When Is The Deadline To Apply For The Next Academy?
The application period for 2010 is closed. Please check back in the winter of 2010 for our 2011 academy.
What Is The Step-By-Step Application Procedure?
1. Please read the information on this Web Site.
The information here is designed to answer many of your questions and give you an idea of what to expect as a member of the Intermountain Fire and Rescue Department.
2. Make sure you meet all the minimum Reserve Fire Fighter Requirements.
3. Print an IFRD Application Form and SDCFA Application Form, fill BOTH out completely. These forms require Adobe PDF Viewer.
4. Obtain your DMV print out (driving record) valid within one month of the date of application.
5. Mail your application forms accompanied by your DMV printout to:
Intermountain Fire and Rescue Department
Attention: Personnel Officer
P.O. Box 1362
Ramona, CA 92065
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Once received, the application will be kept on file for six months. The applicant will be responsible to update the Department with changes as necessary. When an opening occurs, a member of the Recruitment Committee will contact you to advise you of the date, time and location of the physical ability test.
6. Background Investigation
Intermountain Fire and Rescue Department will obtain background information on each applicant in several ways. First, the applicant's driving record will be checked. Second, the applicant's credit will be checked. Third, the applicant will be required to complete a criminal background check through a designated law-enforcement agency as approved by the Department, In addition, personal references as well as employment information will also be verified.
7. Physical Ability Test - TBA
The physical ability test is a continual test designed to assess a person’s endurance and ability to perform basic strenuous tasks that Firefighters must perform. For more information see: What is the Physical Ability Test?
8. Oral Board Interview - TBA
The Department will invite candidates who meet the minimum qualifications, and pass the physical ability test, to an oral board interview. This oral board is a structured interview process with a panel of raters. The Department will conduct the interviews to determine the candidate’s technical knowledge, oral communications skills, interpersonal sensitivity, judgment, decision-making skills and adaptability. If you are among the group of candidates invited to the oral board interview, the Department will contact you and give you all the necessary details regarding the date, time, and location of your interview.
9. Physical
Each Firefighter candidate approved by the Interview Committee will be required to complete a medical and physical evaluation to determine if the candidate can perform the essential functions of the position. Cost for the physical examination will be at the expense of the applicant and can be done by a doctor of your choice. Appointment as a Reserve Firefighter is contingent upon passing this physical. The physical evaluation is to be completed by a Licensed Physician and returned within two weeks notification of passing the oral interview.
10. Acceptance as an Intermountain Fire and Rescue Firefighter!
Upon successful completion of the above items, you will be scheduled for the next Intermountain Academy. The Reserve Academy is typically held over a four-month period (depending on scheduling). The Academy is designed as an informative process providing basic training in the field of fire suppression, rescue, and emergency medical aid. Our goal is to create an environment for you to succeed.
Applicants who have already completed a State Certified Firefighter I program may not be required to attend the entire Reserve Academy. Candidates can apply for a "skills challenge" to demonstrate their fire fighting, EMS, and other skills. Upon passing the challenge, candidates may bypass certain academy classes. However, State Certified Firefighter I applicants will be mandated to attend all "Department specific" classes in order to learn Departmental policies and procedures.
After completing the Academy or passing a "skills challenge", Reserves are assigned to a shift under the supervision of a company officer. Reserves typically work an average of four shifts a month.
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