Membership Requirements

Becoming a volunteer firefighter in your local community is one of the most rewarding and selfless decisions you can make. At Briaroaks Fire Department, our training programs are comprised of both practical application and in-class instruction. Trainees learn to handle various rescue tools, such as extinguishers, axes and ladders, and other equipment we use in our duties. Along with firefighting techniques, you'll be instructed in preventing fires, handling hazardous materials (HAZMAT), and performing emergency medical procedures.

Basic Requirements For Membership

1. Must reside in Johnson County or Tarrant County, Texas
2. Must be at least 21 years of age
3. Must have a high school diploma or GED
4. Must not have any felony convictions
5. Must not have any class "B" or higher misdemeanor convictions within last 5 years
6. Must have acceptable background investigation and driving record
7. EMS only applicants must have Texas EMT-B or above certification
8. Firefighter applicants must attain Texas EMR or above certification within 6 months

Maintaining Active Membership

1. Unless excused, must attend all regular scheduled meetings
2. Must maintain acceptable level of participation
3. Must respond as part of assigned shift unless exempt or on approved trade
4. Must meet department training requirements (initial and continuing education)
5. Must adhere to all rules and regulations of the department
6. Must maintain acceptable driving record
7. Must maintain liability insurance on personal vehicles
8. Must continue to meet all Basic Requirements for Membership

Application Process

We accept new membership applications four times a year — during February, May, August, and November. Here's what to expect once you apply during an open application period:

1. Submit a complete application. Your application must include copies of your required documents (driver's license, high school diploma or GED, and similar items). If you've served in the military, please include a copy of your DD-214. Applications that are missing documents or have blank fields can't be accepted, so double-check everything before you turn it in.
2. Pass the Physical Assessment Test (PAT). The PAT is held on the last Saturday of each application period, and you'll be given a scheduled arrival time. You'll have two attempts to pass and move on to the next step.
3. Interview with the membership panel. Applicants who pass the PAT sit for a standardized panel interview. Your answers are scored, and a minimum passing score is required to continue.
4. Complete your background check and drug screen. A membership committee member will enter your information into our background-check provider's system (Intellicorp), and you'll receive an email with instructions. Complete your background-check information and schedule your drug screen to keep moving forward.
5. Finish your required training. You'll be notified in writing of the training to complete before your application goes to a vote. The required courses are NIMS 100, 200, 700, 800, and Courage to Be Safe, and you'll submit a certificate of completion for each one.
6. Application readings. In keeping with our Constitution & By-laws, your application is read at our regular meetings on the first and second Tuesdays of the month, with a third reading at the monthly business meeting on the third Tuesday. If your background check and drug screen are acceptable and all training certificates are in, your application moves to the membership for consideration.
7. Membership committee report. After the third reading, the committee shares a general impression of you with the membership — things like your level of interest, how promptly you completed each step, and your training progress.
8. Membership vote. A vote is taken of the members present, including those attending online. If two-thirds vote to accept, you become a probationary member of the department effective immediately.

Probationary members serve a 90-day period, after which the membership votes again on regular member status. Any applicant who isn't accepted will be given the reason why.