Fire companies are paramilitary organizations, meaning there is a ranking structure and chain of command; line officers are in charge of fire fighting/prevention operations and will issue orders to subordinates. Unless you feel the order from an officer is unsafe, you are to carry it out - regardless of whether or not it's at a fire call or a task at the firehouse. The goal is to maintain safe, appropriate and effective procedures/operations.

Fire companies are also businesses and must run like one. Budgets, bills, building/property issues and other administrative tasks are coordinated by the executive board members. Volunteers who are willing to help the executive board are typically in short supply; if this is an area of your expertise, please volunteer for related tasks!

Aside from the above organizational issues, fire companies tend to be social outlets. Franklin Park is no exception. If you participate in company events and you have a good attitude and a sense of humor, you will likely develop many new friends. Most of the members kid around and you should expect a fair amount of antagonistic remarks directed at you and others, though this is in good fun.

Feel free to discuss your questions or concerns with our membership committee, either in-person at the firehouse or via telephone.

For more information on volunteering, please click the links that appear to the left.