Recruitment
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Thank you for your interest in joining the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company.
The Volunteer Fire Company offers exceptional and exciting opportunities for men and women seeking the benefit of helping others. Volunteering as a firefighter or EMT will open up unlimited opportunities for advancement and the chance to make a real difference in the community and develop life long friendships.
The Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company (OCVFC) is the Volunteer Division of the Ocean City Fire Department. The Ocean City Fire Department (OCFD) is a full-spectrum life safety agency protecting people who live, work and play in OC. We are a combination department of volunteer and career personnel. We have 200 + members in the Volunteer Division and 100 + members in the Career Division, including the Office of the Fire Marshal and our support staff. Our department responds to approximately 6,000 calls each year. Many of these occur during the busy summer season. We provide services to the 10 & 1/2 mile stretch of beach area, West Ocean City, and also provide mutual aid to Worcester County, Maryland and Sussex County, Delaware.
Thank you for your interest in joining the fire service. Remember, this profession takes time, dedication, and the willingness to make sacrifices.
Frequently Asked Questions
-What is the minimum age to be a member of the Volunteer Fire Company?
18 years of age
For younger individuals (ages 14-17) who have interest in the fire service, they may join the cadet program. Click here to see the Cadet Program page.
-What is the process to become a member of the Volunteer Fire Company?
1. After completing the application and returning it to fire headquarters the first step in the process is the criminal background check.
2. Once the background is complete and approved you will be sent for your initial physical.
3. When the physical results are returned to the department with approval from the physician you will be scheduled for an interview with the Board of Directors and Chiefs.
4. After the interview, the Board of Directors will return with a vote accepting or rejecting your membership. You will be contacted by the Secretary of the Board and advised of your status.
5. If you were advised that you have been accepted into the volunteer fire company – you will be contact directly to complete the rookie school process and for your introduction to new membership.
The entire process can take between 2-3 months to complete depending on when your application is submitted, the speed of return of the background check, and availability of appointments with the medical center.
-What are the membership types?
As of 2026, Active membership is now open to individuals living both in Ocean City and elsewhere. All active members are required to earn 50 points annaully to maintain active status. Members who serve in an active capacity for 15 or more years may request Life Membership, and those who serve in an active capacity for 25 or more years may request Gold Badge Membership.
Click here to see an explanation of the "Points System"
-I am NOT a full-time resident of the Ocean City’s first due fire district. Can I be a member?
YES! As of 2026, we have opened up our active membership to all applicants, regardless of where they live. All members are required to meet the same activity requirements annually.
-I am a Town of Ocean City employee with previous fire training. Can I be a member of the Volunteer Fire Company?
YES! Any city employee may apply for membership and respond to calls once accepted.
-What is "Rookie School"? Do I have to complete it in order to be able to ride?
Yes. All new members must complete Rookie School in order to be riding members. There is a shortened version for those with previous experience. Click here to read about rookie school.
-Can I be a “Live-In” member at the firehouse?
Yes. Click here to see the Live-In Program Page for more information.
-Does the Volunteer Fire Company offer EMS only membership?
The OCVFC is not currently offering a specific EMS-Only membership. Feel free to reach out to use using the form at the bottom of the page if you have any questions.
-Once I become a member are there any yearly requirements that I must meet to stay a member (in addition to coming to calls)?
Yes. You must maintain your minimum required points, attend annual SCBA training (if SCBA certified), or attend annual driver’s training (if driver certified).
Click here to see an explanation of the "Points System"
-Will I be provided with uniforms and gear?
Yes. Duty uniforms, turnout gear, and basic equipment (flashlights, safety vests, work gloves, etc.) will be provided at no cost to you.
-Will I be provided with training?
Yes. You will be provided with all appropriate training via the department’s training program and through the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute (MFRI). All MFRI training is offered for free to members of fire departments in the State of Maryland.
Contact Information
Ocean City Fire Department
Downloads:
Contact Us
Regular Business Meeting
7:00 PM
Regular Business Meeting
7:00 PM
Board of Directors Meeting
7:00 PM
Regular Business Meeting
7:00 PM
