HEROES WANTED!

The Ridge Volunteer Fire Department is actively seeking dedicated volunteers who are interested in joining as operational or administrative members.  As a member, you will have the opportunity to perform various technical and professional services for the citizens of St. Mary's County's First District.  With training, you will assist in combating, extinguishing, and preventing fires, patient care at medical emergencies, responding to hazardous materials incidents, responding to emergency calls, and in the operation and maintenance of Fire Department equipment, apparatus, and facilities.  Members must have the ability and dedication to educate children, residents, and business people to be aware of the need for fire prevention and protection.  Anyone age 16 or older may apply.

The Ridge Volunteer Fire Department does more than put out fires.
We save lives.

Being a part of the Ridge VFD offers many exciting benefits, including:

Free Training
You will receive access to extensive, high-quality firefighting, rescue, and EMS training through the University of Maryland's Maryland Fire & Rescue Institute (MFRI).  The training is offered year-round and covers multiple areas. These courses count towards college credits through the state of Maryland. There are also many opportunities for free training within the department.

Currently certified firefighters can be fast-tracked through the Department’s pre-basic training process to quickly access advanced training, making it easier to further your education and training.

Incentives for Volunteers
As a RVFD volunteer, you'll benefit from a number of incentives designed to recognize your invaluable contributions:

• College Scholarship Program: The St. Mary’s County Commissioners sponsor a College Scholarship Program designed to support the educational goals of active members of St. Mary’s County volunteer fire departments, rescue squads, and advanced life support units. This program provides financial assistance to qualified applicants pursuing higher academic or vocational education.

• Length of Service Awards Program (LOSAP) / Retirement: Through our Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP), you can receive retirement benefits from St. Mary's County after the age of 55. Volunteers accumulate points for attending meetings, drills, fundraising events, and emergency responses. These points can be redeemed for a Maryland State tax deduction. Additionally, LOSAP provides Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) to eligible retirees and beneficiaries, in line with the Maryland State Retirement and Pension System.

• Maryland State Income Tax Subtraction Modification: Members who accumulate sufficient LOSAP points are eligible to receive up to a $7,000 Maryland State income tax break for being a volunteer (after three years of active service).

• Volunteer Incentive Program: The Volunteer Incentive Program is an annual initiative funded by the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County to recognize and reward the vital service of volunteer fire and EMS personnel. This program offers eligible volunteers either a property tax credit or a cash stipend, with awards ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 based on the level of participation.

Financial Benefits for Volunteers
St. Mary's County provides a range of financial benefits to protect volunteers and their families:

• Disability Benefit: Volunteers injured in the line of duty may qualify for financial assistance if their injuries prevent them from performing their regular occupational duties.

• Survivor Benefit: In the event of a volunteer’s passing, the surviving spouse is entitled to 50 percent of the volunteer’s LOSAP benefits.

• Line of Duty Death Benefits: A $2,500 payment is provided to the designated beneficiary in the event of a volunteer’s death during duty.

• Scholarship Reimbursement Program: Volunteers who accumulate at least 50 LOSAP points in the previous year are eligible for reimbursement for courses related to their post-secondary education. This initiative supports volunteers who are pursuing higher education while serving their community.

Additional Opportunities: Junior Firefighters
In addition to adult volunteers, Ridge VFD also welcomes junior firefighters (age 16-18), giving young community members a chance to get involved early. This program offer teens and young adults the opportunity to learn about fire and EMS services, develop valuable skills, and prepare for future roles in emergency response.

Are you a Certified Fire Fighter? Want to see if RVFD is right for you?
Ridge VFD allows firefighters to ride as a “Guest” as long as they are certified.  The minimum requirement is Firefighter 1 and be a member in good standing of your local fire department. The Fire Chiefs of both Departments must agree to the ride along. You must bring your own gear.