Who is eligible to join Gaston Fire & Rescue?

Membership is open to individuals aged 18+. For the Cadet Program, junior cadets can join at age 14 with parental consent to serve in a fire, rescue, or support capacity.

Is any experience required?

No prior experience is required! We provide all the training and equipment you'll need to serve safely and effectively.

What are the time commitments for volunteers?

Members are encouraged to participate in regular training sessions and be available for emergencies as often as possible. Time commitments can vary based on availability and role.

What roles are available?

We have a range of roles including regular firefighter, emergency medical responder, water rescue, community outreach, auxiliary support, and fundraising. New members start with community outreach and auxiliary duties before advancing.

How does the Cadet Program work?

The Cadet Program is open to teens ages 14–17 with parental consent. Cadets receive hands-on training, mentorship from active firefighters, and build discipline, teamwork, and real-world emergency response skills.

What training will I receive?

All members receive comprehensive training including fire suppression, emergency medical response, rope rescue, water rescue, and vehicle extrication. Certifications like CPR and EMT are offered at no cost.

Do I need to provide my own gear?

No. The department provides all personal protective equipment (PPE) and gear needed for training and emergency response.

Protect Your Community.
Serve For Life.

No experience required. We provide all the training and certifications — you bring the heart.

Apply Now — It’s FreeNo experience needed

You Don’t Need Experience.

Most people talk themselves out of applying before they ever start. Here’s the truth about the most common concerns.

“I have no experience.”

We train you from day one — fire suppression, CPR, EMT, water rescue. Every certification is provided at zero cost to you.

“I don't have much time.”

Can't make every call? That's fine. Respond when you're available — no set hours, no rigid schedule. Every run you answer still counts, and we work around your life.

“This isn't for someone like me.”

Our volunteers are farmers, teachers, retirees, and students. If you live here and care about your neighbors, you belong here.

Start Your Application

Find Your Role

We have multiple divisions — there’s a way to serve for every skill set and schedule.

Fire & Rescue

Respond to structure fires, vehicle accidents, and medical emergencies. The core of the department — trained, equipped, and ready.

Water & Dive Operations

Water rescue support on Lake Gaston, the Roanoke River, and flooded roadways. Public safety diving for search, rescue, recovery, and submerged-vehicle incidents.

Cadet Program

Ages 14–17. Hands-on mentorship, real training, and discipline that builds character. The pipeline to becoming a full member.

Auxiliary

Support the mission without front-line response. Fundraising, events, administration — essential work that keeps the department running.

Apply for Your Division

Start Serving in 3 Simple Steps

Fill Out Your Application

Takes about 5 minutes. Basic personal info, background, and what division interests you. No experience required.

Start Here

Meet the Team

We'll reach out to schedule an informal visit. Tour the station, meet current members, ask any questions.

Train & Serve

You're in. Training starts immediately. Within weeks you'll be on active calls responding to real emergencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your Community Is Calling.
Will You Answer?

Applications reviewed within 2 weeks
Training starts immediately after approval
All gear and certifications provided — zero cost to you
Your neighbors are counting on volunteers like you

Apply Now — It’s Free

No experience needed · Free gear & training · Ages 18+ (Cadets 14+)

Protect Your Community.Serve For Life.

You Don’t Need Experience.