Interested in becoming a Volunteer Firefighter?
The Pecan Grove Volunteer Fire Department is a combination department with paid part-time and volunteer firefighters. Our volunteers consist of members of the community who give their time to serve and protect the public.
PGVFD welcomes volunteer applicants with a TCFP fire certification to apply at any time, and brings in applicants without a firefighting background once a year.
The application period for 2027 will be open from October 1st to December 1st, 2026. Don’t delay, apply today!
Our members meet once a week (typically Tuesday at 7:00pm) for training and meetings. Those who continue with us and show initiative are given the opportunity to attend a local fire academy. After completion, they are eligible to work shifts (10, 14, or 24 hours in duration) and receive a stipend.
Please read through our helpful FAQ section below which goes over common questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is required to be a volunteer firefighter in Pecan Grove?
1. You must be 18 and up OR turning 18 during your probationary phase 2. You must be a citizen of the United States and/or have the legal right to work 3. You must have a valid Texas Drivers License 4. You must not have any felony convictions or charges, convictions for crimes of moral turpitude, lower-level crimes which prevent you from being licensed/certified as a firefighter or EMT, or an excessive history of unsafe driving. We perform a background check on all applicants. 5. You must have adequate physical fitness to perform essential training and ultimately job-related functions of firefighting and EMS. We recommend consulting with your primary care provider before starting such activities 6. Most importantly, you must have the desire to serve your community, and a willingness to learn and work hard to achieve your goals.
How does volunteering with PGVFD work?
Unlike many other volunteer departments, Pecan Grove VFD is a combination department with both paid and volunteer firefighters. They work alongside each other during set shifts. After completing training, you would choose which shifts to sign up for, and you would spend that time at the fire station. We host training once a week and a business meeting once a month.
When can I start?
If you have a TCFP fire certification, please reach out to us! We can likely bring you in at any time throughout the year. If you are not certified, we would bring you in as part of a larger group. Applications open in October, close in December, and you would begin with us in January of the following year.
How do I get on the truck?
Our department has a high standard for training. You will need to complete a fire training course (academy) first. The one we use will help you to earn a TCFP certification – the same one required by all paid departments in Texas. Typically, you would be ready about 1 year from when you start with us. If you join us and already have your TCFP, on average it takes 3 months to get you voted in and through the process.
Do you require volunteers to become EMTs?
Yes. To become a full member with our department, you must become certified as an EMT (emergency medical technician) or higher in the State of Texas. This is also required by TCFP and nearly all paid departments. We have volunteers who have progressed to be Advanced EMTs or even Paramedics. Members of PGVFD are eligible to be reimbursed for the cost of attending EMT school.
I want to become a paid firefighter/EMT. Can you help?
Yes! The certifications and training you will receive here will directly transfer to most paid departments in Texas. However, we do require that you give us 1 year of service after attending fire school, and 1 additional year if we reimburse you for EMT school.
Is it difficult?
Yes. Firefighting and EMS involve work that is often difficult and occasionally dangerous. We provide quality training and equipment to reduce the risk as much as possible. It is important for you to be aware of the challenges that come with this field, and we go over them during the introductory period.
What are the rules for participation?
Our department has a high standard for attendance, and we understand that means we’re not a good fit for everyone. We require at least 75% attendance at our weekly trainings and monthly business meeting. There are also occasional public relations events for you to assist with. Once you begin doing shifts, you would need to complete at least 3 per month to remain in good standing. Day shift or night shift count as 1, a 24-hour shift counts as 2.
I’m not 100% sure this is for me. What can I do to check things out?
Please reach out to us and we would be happy to talk with you about any questions/concerns. We’ll help you figure that out and give you every chance to succeed.
Who can I reach out to?
Please use the form below, and someone will get back to you as soon as possible. Typically, our Admin Captain handles all issues related to the volunteer membership.