Junior Firefighter Program
Developing Tomorrow’s Heroes:
The Millwood Junior Firefighter Program
The Millwood Fire Company Junior Firefighter Program offers a unique opportunity for local youth to step out of the classroom and into the world of emergency services.
Designed for teenagers aged 14 to 16, this program provides a safe, structured, and professional environment where young men and women can learn the fundamentals of firefighting, teamwork, and community leadership.
Our Juniors are not just observers—they are valued members of the department who train alongside our active interior and exterior firefighters, gaining hands-on experience that builds character and prepares them for a lifetime of service.
What to Expect as a Junior Member
The program is built on the philosophy of “Learning by Doing.” Under the close supervision of experienced officers and mentors, Junior Firefighters participate in:
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Fundamental Training Learn the basics of fire science, tool operation, and emergency scene safety alongside our active firefighter members.
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Apparatus Familiarization Understand the layout and equipment on our Engines, Ladder, and Rescue trucks. Get up close with the tools of the trade.
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Weekly Drills Join our Monday night drills to practice real-world skills like hose advancement, ladder placement, and radio communications alongside our active members.
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Community Events Assist with public education, open houses, and local parades—representing the Millwood Fire Company with pride in the community.
Monday Night Drills
Junior members are invited to join our regular Monday night training drills at our stations, training side-by-side with experienced firefighters.
Safety and Requirements
The safety of our Junior members is our absolute priority. The program is strictly governed by New York State labor laws and District policies.
Schedule a no-obligation visit with us—we’ll walk your family through the entire program in person.
Junior members are students first. They are prohibited from responding to alarms during school hours to ensure their education remains their top focus at all times.
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Operational Limits Per our guidelines, Junior members who have not yet completed formal Firefighter 1 training are restricted from using heavy equipment. Once they complete a fire ground safety course, they are permitted to ride apparatus to calls and provide exterior support.
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Parental Consent Applicants under the age of 18 must have written authorization from a parent or guardian. This includes consent for required background checks and medical physicals.
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Age Eligibility The Junior Program is open to young men and women between the ages of 14 and 16. Upon turning 16, members in good standing may transition to full active membership.
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Medical Physical All Junior applicants must pass a medical physical arranged by the Millwood Fire District physician prior to participating in field activities.