Section I-5

Application Process

All prospective members must submit a complete application to the Fire Chief via the Recruiting Officer and have an active member of the Three Star Fire Department in good standing serve as a mentor.  The firefighter or officer acting as sponsor should know the applicant reasonably well and be prepared to speak on their behalf before the fire company’s monthly meeting.  If no known sponsor is available, each applicant may proceed in the application process.

In addition to below guidelines, the applicant must meet the minimum criteria to be considered for membership into the Three Star Fire Department and probationary firefighter status:

·        Minimum age of 18

·        Reside within the fire district of Three Star Fire Department (exceptions shall be awarded by the Chief).

·        Physically and mentally capable to perform the duties of a firefighter.

·        Complete an application form for review and approval by the Chief and command staff.

·        Be of good moral character

·        Must not be convicted of any felony charge

·        Valid Driver’s License

·        Be a US Citizen or resident alien

The procedure for applying to become a Probationary Firefighter with the Three Star Fire Department is as follows:

• A Driver’s License and Criminal background check will be submitted through the Tennessee Bureau of Investigations.  The Three Star Fire Department reserves the right to deny membership to applicants who have a history of arson and/or other felony.

• Applicant should be in good physical health and should receive clearance from their personal physician stating that the prospective firefighter is physically able to fulfill the duties of a structural firefighter as per NFPA standards.

• During the application orientation process, the candidate will be expected to adhere to all guidelines as any other Probationary Firefighters (Section I-4).

• The Chiefs and officers will meet with the applicant to discuss the duties, responsibilities, and expectations of a firefighter.  Issues to be addressed will include the applicant’s motivation, ability to make the necessary time commitment, probationary period expectations, and comfort with operating as part of a fire service organization.  The differences between the Three Star Fire Department and the association will be explained, along with the training requirements and expectations.  Responsibilities of all firefighters and officers as employees of the Three Star Fire Department and expectations in terms of personal conduct on and off the fire ground will be explained to the candidate.

• A mentor will be assigned to work with the applicant through the completion of their probationary period.

• The application will be submitted to the membership present at an appropriate department meeting for its approval and acceptance.

At this point the applicant will become a Probationary Firefighter and will be issued copies of Three Star Fire Department Standard Operating Guidelines, By-Laws, and other items as determined by the Fire Chief.  Personal protective equipment, pager and Handheld radio will be issued at the discretion of the Fire Chief during the probationary period.