Welcome.

The Bedford Fire Department offers a Recruit Program for Bedford youth, ages 15-17. The program introduces our youth to emergency services and the roles first responders play in our community. Participants will learn basic first responder skills and will be given ample training and support to help interested Recruits take the New York State Firefighter 1 or Emergency Medical Technician training classes. [Note: all course fees, gear/equipment and course books are provided by the Department for actively participating Recruits.]

Program Objectives:

• Introduce young adults to emergency services to inspire interest in becoming long term members of our department.

• Provide the Department with additional help in accomplishing non-emergency tasks.

• Provide leadership and personal development opportunities for Bedford Village youth.

• Empower young adults to inspire family and friends to support the Department.

Program Overview:

The Recruit program begins in September of each year. [As resources permit, a second Recruit Class may begin in January.] After completing a physical and Department-required online training (see Recruit Program Guidelines for more detail), Recruits will be introduced to a variety of topics, ranging from scene safety, communications, introduction to equipment, and basic EMS and Fire Service skills.

During initial training, Recruits are in their Probationary Period. Probationary Recruits are required to participate in drills and work details at the Firehouse every Sunday morning from 9am – 11am (holiday weekends excepted).

As Recruits demonstrate mastery of introductory skills, Recruits (16 years+) will be cleared to begin responding to 911 calls. Recruits are not permitted to respond to certain higher-risk emergency events; details will be provided when Recruits are advanced to Responding Recruit status.

Given the nature of the program and the topics covered, we require a significant commitment from our Recruits and the support of their families. Please review the Recruit Program Guidelines for more details. That document can be found at this link: BFD Recruit Program Guidelines

We hope that you will consider joining our team and look forward to receiving your application.  If you are interested, please complete the online application and someone will reach out to you via email to arrange an in-person meeting with our instructors and current Recruits.