As we continue our unwavering commitment to serve our community, we humbly ask for your support. Whether it’s through donations, participating in community events, volunteering, or simply spreading the word about our work, every gesture counts and is profoundly appreciated. We would also like to express our deepest gratitude to all those who have already shown their generosity and belief in our mission. Together, we can ensure a safer, stronger community for everyone.
Your 100% Volunteer Fire Department
We can’t do it without you!
Ways that you can help
Donate
Volunteer
Events
Other Services
Tell A Friend!
Get Involved
The UMWD Fire Company is a 100% volunteer organization, entirely dependent on community participation to ensure the safety of our neighbors and their properties. To provide a comprehensive range of services, we require extensive support in various roles. Whether you’re interested in becoming a firefighter, joining the fire police, or assisting in support and administrative tasks, we deeply appreciate every volunteer who helps us achieve our mission of protecting the community.
Please join us and be part of something extraordinary!
Community Events
As a 100% volunteer department, funding is extremely limited and doesn’t come close to covering the costs of equipping our firefighters to protect the community. In addition to giving their time to serve, our volunteers organize various great community events to help fund our operations.
Participation in our community events is a tremendous help – we thank you for your incredible support!
Use Our Services
For over 80 years, the Upper Milford Western District Fire Department (UMWD) has been a beacon of safety and service in our community. Established in 1942 with the mission of protecting the residents of Upper Milford’s western district, our department is a 100% volunteer organization. We offer multiple other services, with every penny of proceeds going towards helping us protect our community.
Help Spread The Word!
One of the most impactful ways to support the Fire Company is by helping to spread the word about our work within the community. The more our neighbors are informed, the more they can contribute, either by volunteering, participating in community events, utilizing our services, or providing much-needed support. A simple conversation with a neighbor, a post shared on social media, or a kind word at community meetings can go a long way. By amplifying our message, you’re not only championing a safer community but also ensuring the continued growth and strength of the UMWD Fire Company. Every voice counts, and together, we can make a lasting difference.
Don't miss our upcoming community events!
As a 100% volunteer department, funding is extremely limited and doesn’t come close to covering the costs of equipping our firefighters to protect the community. In addition to giving their time to serve, our volunteers organize various great community events to help fund our operations. Participation in any of the events below is a tremendous help – we thank you for your incredible support!
Frequently asked questions
Why is volunteering important for the community?
Volunteer firefighters play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of our community, often being the first responders in emergencies and saving both lives and property. We’re on-call 24/7, 365 days per year to be there when our neighbors need help or don’t know who else to call for an emergency.
What are the requirements to become a volunteer firefighter?
Full members must be at least 18 years of age, junior firefighters are welcome if aged 16 to 17. We expect reasonable physical fitness standards and require background checks, and residency or close proximity to the station.
Do I need prior firefighting experience to join?
No! Upper Milford Fire Department welcomes new members without prior experience. In fact, we’re honored to provide comprehensive weekly training for a majority of our new members.
How much time does volunteering require?
The time commitment varies, but volunteer firefighters should expect regular weekly training sessions, monthly meetings, and to be on-call for emergencies.
Support/Administrative volunteers are needed and are welcome to contribute their time and skills as available!
Is there any training for new volunteers?
Yes! All new volunteers undergo basic firefighting training and will have opportunities for advanced courses and certifications.
Are there volunteer opportunities other than firefighting?
Absolutely! We LOVE volunteers who can contribute their skills to roles like administration, finance, community education, equipment/facility maintenance, and much more! Have a skill and want to be part of something exceptional? We’re profoundly grateful for involvement by our community!
Is there an age limit for volunteers?
While members must be at least 18 years of age (or 16 for juniors), we do not have an upper age limit for our volunteers. For safety, firefighters are expected to be in reasonable physical condition and be able to perform required tasks.
Do volunteers receive compensation or benefits?
While UMWDFD is comprised of 100% volunteers, we offer benefits such as training reimbursements, insurance coverage, and potential tax benefits. Our primary compensation is the sense of pride and fulfillment earned by being an active member of the community and assisting our neighbors when they don’t know who else to call.
How do I apply to volunteer or become a firefighter?
It’s easy! Simply stop by any Thursday after 7 p.m., or visit our Join Us page to apply.
What kind of equipment is provided to volunteers?
The fire department provides all necessary firefighting gear and equipment to ensure the safety of our volunteers and to serve the emergency needs of our community.
Are there physical fitness requirement to become a volunteer firefighter?
Yes, firefighting is physically demanding, so volunteers must meet certain fitness standards and maintain their fitness levels for their own safety and the safety of others.
How can I support the fire department if I'm unable to volunteer?
ABSOLUTELY! There are many ways to support our fire department, including making contributions, participating in community events, or even spreading the word about volunteer opportunities or fundraising events. We’re incredibly grateful for the generosity of our community and are profoundly appreciative of the support they provide.
What is the difference between a volunteer and a career firefighter?
While both career firefighters and volunteers are trained professionals, there are distinct differences between the two. Career firefighters are paid and work set shifts, whereas volunteers offer their services in their spare time without monetary compensation. Gaining emergency response skills as a volunteer is invaluable, and many paid firefighters begin their careers in such volunteer roles.
Do volunteers respond to all types of emergencies?
Yes! Volunteers are trained to respond to a variety of incidents, including fires, medical emergencies, and natural disasters. In addition, most people don’t realize that we also provide critical assistance, such as assisting ambulance and EMT crews with lift assistance, and other support.
How often are training sessions held?
Training is ongoing and is held weekly (every Thursday at 7 p.m. to ensure that all volunteers are well-prepared for any emergency.