The Riverdale Heights Volunteer Fire Department is actively seeking local and resident (live-in) firefighters, emergency medical technicians & administrative members.

Be part of one of the most progressive volunteer emergency response organizations in the nation. Training is provided and the benefits are rewarding.

Basic Requirements

Getting started with the Riverdale Heights Volunteer Fire Department is easy

At least 16 years of age
No training required for new members (Except resident members as described below)
Complete application to include full criminal background check (usually takes 4-6 weeks to complete)
Completion of basic orientation training, including CPR, Infection Control and Volunteer Recruit School (two weekends) after membership approved
Completion of Firefighter I or Maryland EMT-Basic within 18 months of membership and both (except EMS-only and Administrative members) within 36 months
Participation in our duty shift program, including one four-hour block per week and one weekend shift each month
Attendance at monthly meetings held on the first Tuesday of every month and occasional special events

General Membership Benefits

The Riverdale Heights Volunteer Fire Department provides an outstanding atmosphere with state-of-the-art apparatus and equipment and these benefits that come with being part of the DOG POUND ...

• Free Training: All firefighting, rescue and emergency medical training is provided
• Retirement: Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP)
• Scholarships: for college students through county and state organizations
• Tax Break: $3,500 Maryland state tax break incentive for volunteers
• Team: A great sense of community and serving a good cause
• Leadership: Opportunities for advancement and responsibility on both the operational and administrative side of the RHVFD
• Family: Camaraderie and lifelong friendships
  And So Much More

Residential (Live-In) Recruitment

If you are a student pursuing a higher education with experience in the fire/ems fields and you are interested in becoming part of a fast-paced emergency services environment, then becoming a live-in at Riverdale Heights may be for you.

We are located near the University of Maryland, University of Maryland University College, Prince Georges Community College, and Montgomery Community College. We are also a short Metro ride to Catholic and George Washington Universities, and are along the University of Maryland shuttle route.

General Requirements are Firefighter I, EMT-B and the ability to pass a thorough background check and physical examination performed by the Prince George's County Fire Department.

The live-in complement averages about 10 male and female members. Living space is provided free in return for responding to calls at least four nights per week, among other requirements.

Residential Benefits

The Riverdale Heights Volunteer Fire Dept. is continually accepting applications for the position of Student/Non-Student Residential Firefighter/EMT. Here are additional benefits for residential members ...

Free Room , sleeping areas, separate male/female living quarters
Experience with a busy, progressive Fire/EMS Organization
Tuition Reimbursement Program (through County/State)
and Much, Much More
Get More Information

Want more information on becoming part of the RHVFD? You can contact the station at (301) 985-4680 or (301) 985-4681, or feel free to stop by the station anytime located at 6101 Roanoke Avenue Riverdale, Maryland 20737. Just ask for any station Officer or the Membership Chairperson.

If you are a local resident or college student, you are also welcome to stop by the station at 7 p.m. on the first Tuesday of every month (our meeting night) to obtain more information, meet our volunteers, and fill out an application.