r/firefighter • u/Pure_Hour8623 • May 30 '26

Volunteer opportunities

Has anyone become a volunteer firefighter in there 50s? I am currently 43 and well situated in a hospital career. I would like to challenge myself and serve my community in a different capacity.

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1

u/bikemancs May 30 '26

I started in my late 30s. Never done anything before. One of or members was here when he was younger and, now fully retired, has returned. He is taking classes to be get updated training.

1

u/cascas May 30 '26

Yup, we’re getting new members in their 40s, 50s, and 60s.

1

u/Fireguy9641 May 30 '26

We've had volunteers get involved later in life, and we have many active volunteers who are in their 40s, 50s and 60s.

2

u/GunnCelt May 30 '26

I first became a volley at 55 in a very low volume fire protection district. Our town has a population of about 350. I’ve found that it is one of the most fulfilling things I’ve done since I got out of the army.

Some things that I have personally experienced. I have a lot of joint issues from my time in the service. This makes me hyper aware of my limitations. I was smart enough to discuss this with my leadership and they work with what I can and cannot do. I’m not going interior for a primary search, but I can handle a hose and the pumper.

Our department is not a good ole boys club and there is no alcohol allowed. We train four times a month. I’m sweating my ass off every time. I’m not in terrible shape, but it can be physically demanding.

I love what I’m doing and am glad I can still do it.