Volunteer Firefighters

Group photo of firefighters

Looking for a challenge that’s as meaningful as it is rewarding? We want to hear from you!

The Muskoka Lakes Fire Department is made up of dedicated volunteer firefighters who take pride in serving and protecting their community as part of a highly trained and respected team. Becoming a volunteer firefighter means joining a team that values skill, commitment, and community spirit.

We’re seeking community members who are:

Enthusiastic and willing to learn
Available for on-call duty one (1) weekend per month
Committed to two (2) evening training sessions per month
Eager to participate in community events, fundraisers, and public education

Ready to Get Involved?

Recruitment drives are held once a year, but those who are interested can apply any time. Applications are kept on file for one year and reviewed as positions become available.

The firefighter selection process is conducted by the Muskoka Lakes Fire Department. Successful applicants will complete our in-house 10-week recruit training program, delivered by Muskoka Lakes’ own officers. This program ensures that you learn directly from your peers while building strong connections with your station and fellow recruits.

The training combines classroom instruction, hands-on practice, proficiency checks, and written/practical testing on all core aspects of structural firefighting. At the conclusion of training, recruits will complete provincial certification testing under NFPA standards

Application
Interested candidates can apply by completing a Volunteer Firefighter Application Form, available at the Township of Muskoka Lakes Municipal Office:

Monday to Friday, 8:15 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Or you can complete the online application Volunteer Firefighter Application

Information Session
Applicants are invited to attend an information session, which provides an overview of the fire service, recruit training, performance expectations, and an opportunity to ask questions.

Next information session: Coming Soon

Interview
Short-listed candidates will participate in a face-to-face interview with Muskoka Lakes Fire Department leadership.

Minimum Qualifications

To apply, you must meet the following requirements:

Canadian citizen or legally entitled to work in Canada as a firefighter
Resident of the Muskoka Lakes area, within reasonable travel time to one of our stations
High school diploma (OSSGD) or academic equivalent
Ability to read, write, and speak English clearly under normal and stressful conditions
Clear Criminal Records Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening

APPLY HERE | Become a Volunteer Firefighter

2026 Recruit Training Schedule (10 Weeks)

Training is conducted on weekends only, and recruits are required to attend all sessions.

2026 Recruit Training Schedule (10 Weeks)
Week	Dates	Topics
1	Feb 21 & 22	PPE, SCBA, Communications, Ground Ladders, Ropes & Knots
2	Feb 28 & Mar 1	Fire Dynamics, Forcible Entry, Fire Hose, Tactical Ventilation, Foam
3	Mar 7 & 8	Standard First Aid, Search & Rescue
4	Mar 21 & 22	Fire Suppression, Building Construction, Gas Monitor, Salvage & Overhaul, Rural Water Supply
5	Mar 28 & 29	MED-A3 Marine Safety Training
6	Apr 11 & 12	Foam, Hose Management, Fire Extinguishers, Search & Rescue (Fish Hatchery)
7	Apr 18 & 19	Live Fire Training
8	May 9 & 10	Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT)
9	May 23 & 24	Auto Extrication, Fire Origin & Cause, Community Risk Reduction / SP103
10	May 30 & 31	OFM Certification Testing