Fairfax County's volunteer fire and rescue services are an integral partner with the Fire and Rescue Department in the provision of services to the citizens. There are 12 active volunteer fire departments in the County. Volunteers are active operationally as well as administratively - with nearly 300 volunteers available to provide supplemental staffing for fire and rescue services. The volunteer organizations also raise funds to help purchase equipment necessary to provide fire and rescue services. The fire apparatus and buildings that volunteer company’s use are mostly owned by the volunteers and paid for by donations from the community. The direct result of the time volunteer firefighters put in every year, combined with the purchase of apparatus and ownership of facilities, saves the county millions of dollars a year in operating costs.

The McLean Volunteer Fire Department accepts expressions of interest for membership from individuals 18 years of age and older four times per year. The initial introductory meeting acquaints the individual with all basic requirements and commitments necessary to becoming a member. If the individual can meet these requirements, a detailed background check, conducted by the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, is carried out. Successful completion of the background check is mandatory to proceeding with the application process. A completed membership application, to include two letters of reference, two passport photos, and a $10.00 application fee must be submitted to the general membership of the department for full acceptance.

In addition to operational members, the department is actively seeking administrative members with financial, clerical, computer, fund raising, and grants writing skills.

If you are interested in learning more about volunteer opportunities please contact the department and a representative will contact you.