Why Volunteer?
Across the United States, nearly 70% of all fire departments are staffed entirely or mostly by volunteers. In rural and suburban communities like El Dorado, volunteer firefighters are not a supplement to professional services — they are the service. When a neighbor's home is on fire, when a car accident closes a road, when a medical emergency strikes at 2 a.m., it is your fellow community members who respond.
Volunteering with El Dorado Fire Rescue is one of the most meaningful things you can do for the people around you. It is also one of the most personally rewarding — offering professional-grade training, a close-knit team, and the knowledge that your presence made a real difference in someone's worst moment.
Who We Are Looking For
We welcome applicants from all walks of life. You do not need prior fire or emergency medical experience. What we do need is:
- A genuine commitment to serving the El Dorado community
- Reliability — showing up when you say you will
- A willingness to learn and follow direction
- A valid New Mexico driver's license
- Minimum age of 18 years
Time Commitment
- Monthly Training — multiple training opportunities in the evenings and weekends - schedule varies
- Emergency response — Members respond to calls as their schedule allows. Regular engagement is expected.
- Monthly membership meetings
- Community events — Fire prevention activities and fundraisers a few times per year.
Equipment & Gear
The department provides all personal protective equipment (PPE) to active members at no cost, including structural turnout gear, SCBA, helmet, uniform shirts, and a radio/pager for dispatch notification.
How to Apply
- Reach out. Call 505.466.1204 or email eldoradofire@comcast.net.
- Interview. A brief, informal conversation with the district chief.
- Submit an application. Complete a written application and consent to a background check.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to live in El Dorado?
We take applications from residents that live within our response area. If you live outside our our district, we are happy to refer you to your district fire department.
I have no fire experience. Is that okay?
Absolutely. Motivation and reliability matter far more than prior experience. We train from the ground up.
Can I volunteer if I have a full-time job?
Yes — we have members in school, working full time and recently retired.
Your community needs you.
Reach out today — an officer will follow up to walk you through the application, ride-along, and orientation process. There's no obligation, and no question is too small.