Glanbrook Volunteer Firefighters: 2024 Highlights and Opportunities
In 2024, our Volunteer Fire Stations in Glanbrook demonstrated exceptional dedication, responding to a total of 812 incidents. Here’s a breakdown by station and type:
Station 18 Binbrook: 464 incidents, including 14 structure fires, 42 motor vehicle collisions, and 269 medical calls.
Station 19 Mt. Hope: 278 incidents, with 12 structure fires, 37 motor vehicle collisions, and 138 medical calls.
Station 14 Chapel Hill: 70 incidents, including 7 structure fires and 25 medical calls.
These calls highlight the critical role of Volunteer Firefighters in keeping our community safe. Their efforts range from extinguishing fires to assisting during medical emergencies, alarms, and even marine rescues.
A Growing Team
Each station is staffed by a dedicated team of volunteers:
Station 18 Binbrook: 28 firefighters
Station 19 Mt. Hope: 19 firefighters
Station 14 Chapel Hill: 14 firefighters
In 2024, recruitment efforts were limited due to unforeseen challenges, but we successfully added new members to Stations 18 and 19. For 2025, we are running two recruit classes, starting February 22 and again in the summer/fall. With several recruits already lined up, we are excited to continue growing our team.
Why Join?
Volunteering as a firefighter is a chance to serve your community in a unique and meaningful way. As Fire Chief Dave Cunliffe puts it:
"If you have interest in serving the community you live in as a Volunteer Firefighter, I encourage you to stop by your local Volunteer Fire Station in Binbrook, Mt. Hope, or Chapel Hill on a Monday night (practice night). Meet the firefighters, hear firsthand what is involved, and learn about the level of commitment it takes. If you’re ready to make a difference, visit the City of Hamilton website and apply. We are always looking for good people to join our team."
Becoming a Volunteer Firefighter
Joining the Hamilton Fire Department as a Volunteer Firefighter requires dedication, commitment, and a willingness to serve. Candidates must demonstrate personal values of trust, honesty, integrity, compassion, and empathy and show they can perform effectively as part of a team.
The role includes tasks such as fire protection and rescue services, fire inspection, and public education within established policies and guidelines. Volunteer Firefighters are compensated for attending emergency scenes, training, and performing station duties.
Training Commitment
Becoming a Probationary Volunteer Firefighter involves a significant time investment:
Training Program: A comprehensive 260-hour training program, including bi-weekly in-person training blocks (16-18 hours over weekends) and additional evening sessions during the week.
Self-Study: Several hours of mandatory self-study weekly.
Attendance: 100% attendance during the training program is required.
After completing the training, Probationary Volunteer Firefighters must respond to calls to meet the requirements outlined in the Collective Agreement.
Application Process
The recruitment process involves:
Reviewing the recruitment process information on the City of Hamilton website.
Applying online by attaching your resume and completing the mandatory questionnaire.
Applications may be disqualified if:
The mandatory questionnaire is incomplete.
Your resume is not submitted.
False statements are made on your resume or in the questionnaire.
Applications are reviewed throughout the year based on recruit training class needs and priority station staffing requirements.
Take the First Step
Whether you’re curious about the role or ready to apply, we invite you to connect with us. Your contribution can help shape a safer, stronger Glanbrook. Visit the City of Hamilton website for details and application instructions.
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