Volunteer firefighting is among the most demanding things you can do — and among the most meaningful. Whether you're 18 and looking for a calling, or 55 and looking for a way to give back, there is a place for you on the Clay Fire roster.
Fill out the application below or stop by either station. Initial conversation, no commitment.
Meet with department leadership. Membership is voted on at a regular department meeting.
Begin a structured probationary period with department-led training, gear issue, and orientation.
Complete state Firefighter I or EMS certification and join the roster as a full active member.
Certified for interior structural firefighting. The crews going through the front door — pulling lines, forcing entry, search and rescue.
Operations outside the structure — water supply, hose advancement, ventilation support, and crew accountability.
Become an EMT or paramedic. Respond to medical calls, vehicle accidents, and rescue operations across the district.
Operate apparatus on emergency response. Train as a certified driver responsible for getting crews to the scene safely.
Ages 16–18. Training and supporting operations under supervision. The entry point for the next generation of Clay Fire.
A lifetime recognition earned through years of dedicated service. Once a member of Clay Fire, always part of the family.
Please take a few minutes and fill out this form. False or misleading statements may be cause for rejection or dismissal after appointment. We'll review your submission and reach out shortly to discuss volunteer opportunities within the department. Thank you for your interest.
No. Most of our members joined with zero firefighting or EMS experience. We provide all training, all certification, and all gear. The only thing you bring is a willingness to learn and to show up.
It depends on your role and how active you choose to be. Operational firefighters typically commit to weekly drill nights, monthly department meetings, and being on call as their schedule allows. Support members can contribute as little as a few hours a month. We work with what you can give.
Clay Fire is a volunteer department — there is no salary or hourly pay for responding to calls. However, New York State offers a Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP) that provides retirement-style benefits for active members based on years of service.
Zero cost to you. The department provides all turnout gear, SCBA, helmets, boots, tools, and any required certifications. State-certified Firefighter I and EMS courses are paid for and scheduled by the department.
Firefighting is physical work — there's no getting around that. But our members range from people in their twenties to people well into their sixties. There are roles that match every level of physical ability, and we will help you find where you fit.
So do most of our members. Volunteer fire departments only work because regular working people make time for them. We schedule training to be accessible, and call response is "as available" — you respond when you can, not at the expense of your job or family.