Sequim Gazette staff

Clallam Fire District 3 is looking for a few good men and women — fresh volunteers who will help those already on board as they “Serve, Respect, Prevent and Protect.”

The district is now comprised of 40-plus career firefighters and 60-plus volunteers who respond from home to stations strategically placed throughout East Clallam County and Gardiner in Jefferson County.

Becoming a volunteer firefighter includes an orientation, a physical abilities test and an interview with the district officers.

Then a candidate must pass a medical exam conducted by the department physician.

Those completing the admissions process then attend a three-month academy. The firefighting academy meets two nights a week and on Saturdays, and ends with the students fighting a live fire.

After successfully completing the academy, volunteers are assigned to a station and are mentored during a probationary period when a required percentage of training and call response must be met.

The district also has volunteer opportunities for civilians who are certified as emergency medical technicians but aren’t interested in firefighting.

Interested in becoming a volunteer? Interest cards may be filled out Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. at 323 N. Fifth Ave. in Sequim. The deadline for signing an interest card is 5 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 26.

For more information, call Capt. Steve Chinn, 683-4242 Ext. 109.