What is it like being a volunteer firefighter?

As a volunteer firefighter in our community, you will learn the basic skills required to respond to emergencies. You will also be expected to perform firefighting duties and other related work, participate in community events, respond to emergencies, and participate in training.

If you like helping people and serving your community, appreciate continuous learning and are physically fit, you may be an ideal candidate for a position as a volunteer firefighter.

What qualifications do you need to become a volunteer firefighter?

• A valid driver’s license (minimum class 5)
• A clean criminal record check
• 19 years of age
• A driver’s abstract demonstrating a safe driving record.
• Ability to communicate in English.
• Canadian citizenship or landed immigrant status.
• Normal vision and hearing and be physically and medically fit.

How can I apply?

Please feel free to contact the Fire Chief at the Town of Truro Fire Service if you want to gain more information on volunteer opportunities within the department.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need the experience to join?

A: No experience is necessary to join the Truro Fire Service. All training will be provided once your application is accepted.

Q: How much time do I have to devote as a volunteer?

A: You can expect an average of 15–20 hours of training, emergency responses, and meetings per month.

Q: Do I have to fight fires?

A: Yes, but we need members with all skills and abilities. While fighting fires is our main responsibility, there are many other positions on fire scenes ranging from traffic control, firefighter accountability, and different supportive roles.

Q: Is being a volunteer firefighter physically demanding?

A: Yes, firefighting is physically demanding. You must be able to drag a hose and carry ladders while using tools and wearing 70 lbs of protective gear.

Q: What are some of the things I might have to do as a volunteer firefighter?

A: You will need to work from heights, climb ladders, work in tight spaces, drag and carry a hose and tools and respond to and work in all types of weather.

Q: What if I get hurt while on a scene or at training?

A: All volunteer firefighters are covered by a comprehensive insurance package and WCB should they be injured in the performance of their duties, whether on the scene, at training, or at the station.

For more information contact

Truro Fire Service
165 Victoria Street
Truro, Nova Scotia
Canada B2N 1Z4

Phone: (902) 895-4437

Please visit Truro Volunteer Fire Brigade.

The Town of Truro Fire Service consists of highly dedicated and trained career and volunteer fire personnel, responding to a variety of calls for service such as firefighting, motor vehicle accidents, water rescue, and medical emergencies. The Department has an active fire prevention and inspection division covering fire investigations, public education, school programs, fire inspections, public awareness, and ongoing training within the fire industry. The Department strives to provide the greatest level of service to you - the citizen, and the community in preventing fires, protecting property, and assisting the public on any matters that arise.

Contact information

Truro Fire Service

165 Victoria St.
Truro, Nova Scotia
Canada B2N 1Z4

Tel: (902) 895-4437

If a group wishes to hold an organized parade or walkathon in the Town of Truro, they must complete an application form and submit it to Truro Public Works for approval.

  pdf (666 KB)

pdf Parade/Walkathon Application Form(666 KB)

The application form can be submitted in person or by mail to Truro Public Works at 695 Prince Street, Truro, NS B2N 1G5. Alternatively, permits may be submitted electronically to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..