Fire District Opens its Reserve Firefighter Program

The is opening the application period for the position of reserve firefighter effective April 1 as part of a new program to provide better service and enhance opportunities for men and women seeking a career in the fire service, the district said.

Eighteen part-time reserve firefighters will be hired over the next 18 months, said Deputy Chief Eric Nickel.

Fire Chief Marc Revere said program will save the district more than $250,000 in training costs because the reserve program is designed to serve as the full-time hiring candidate pool.

Novato Fire District Board President LJ Silverman said, “We’re looking forward to providing additional, cost-effective support staff to better serve our communities.”

Reserve programs are commonly found throughout the military, law enforcement and fire service. Reserve firefighters support and supplement district personnel in community assignments including public education events, risk reduction and fire prevention activities, administrative support as well as fire and emergency medical response. The reserves gain first-hand experience while completing training to become full-time firefighters and paramedics.

Due to the overwhelming demand, only the first 150 applications will be accepted, Nickel said. Applications can be found at www.novatofire.org beginning at 8 a.m. April 1.