www.thebackdraftmagazine.com | A Volunteer Fire Service Publication | Volume 5 | Issue 1 | Backdraft Magazine 25
If your volunteer fire department is like mine, you
could always use more members. Like most, it can
prove very difficult to attract new members. Even
harder sometimes is retaining them once you have
them. We must make the most of every opportunity
to attract and retain members.
Let's talk about recruiting. What can we do? I firmly
believe that one of the best ways to recruit new
members is through word of mouth. Friends bring in
friends just like family can bring in family. Talk it up!
Sure, ad campaigns might work, as well posters and
other announcements. But my department has had
tremendous success talking it up face to face with
people throughout our community.
TALK IT UP
There are plenty of opportunities to talk it up. Take
advantage of every one of them to discuss the role
your volunteer fire department and firefighters play
within the community. At block parties, community
events, races, and even at emergency calls you can
easily spread your message of service, dedication,
and professionalism. But don't just talk about it-
-display it. Let people know that what they are
experiencing is being provided and accomplished
with volunteers--professional volunteers--who are
always looking for others to join their ranks.
Use your firehouse to help recruit members. Show
it off! Have firehouse pride! Your firehouse does
not have to be a brand new, state-of-the-art facility
to send a professional message and attract members.
Just have it squared away and invoke the impression
of preparedness and send the message that you are
ready to respond to your citizen's call for help. Let
people see firsthand just how well-prepared you are
to respond to the emergency call. Consider hosting
a community open house where you can open the
doors and show off what you do. In my area, all
local volunteer departments host an open house in
conjunction with fire prevention week. Not only is it
a great opportunity to deliver the fire safety message,
but it is a great opportunity to show off what you do
and advertise the fact that you are volunteers and
looking for additional members.
When kids walk into the firehouse with their parents,
talk it up as you show them the equipment. In many
cases, your residents will be surprised to learn they
are actually protected by volunteers. Celebrate that
fact and talk about everything you do. At the same
By Thomas A. Merrill
The Professional Volunteer Fire Department:
Recruitment