SLFPD Career FAQs

Careers

Choosing a career as a firefighter is the beginning of a journey. It can be one of the most challenging, exciting, and rewarding experiences of your life.

  • Firefighting is an inherently dangerous occupation. Emergency calls may include a brush fire, structure fire, automobile accident, or life-threatening medical emergency. You have to respond to each call with urgency and professionalism.

  • Firefighting is physically demanding. Firefighters may carry 80 to 100 pounds of equipment such as hoses, axes, ladders, chain saws, and extinguishers to rescue victims and extinguish flames. The District provides time and resources during your shift to maintain the expected level of fitness.

  • Firefighters live one-third of their career in a fire station. Work shift sets are 48 hours on followed by 96 hours off. Firefighters live and sleep in dormitory-style quarters while on duty.

  • When not on a call, firefighters must constantly work at keeping the station, equipment, and apparatus in excellent condition. Much of the firefighters’ station time is spent maintaining living quarters, the fire station, and the equipment.

A career in firefighting can be a fulfilling experience offering you many advantages:

  • Be a community leader and role model;

  • The opportunity to save and change lives;

  • The satisfaction of succeeding at a challenging and rewarding career;

  • The pride in serving the people of your community; and

  • Being a part of the public safety family.

Career FAQs

Do you have a volunteer program?

No. Spirit Lake Fire Protection District is a career fire district. If you are interested in volunteering as a firefighter, rewarding opportunities exist in many of the surrounding districts.

How do I become a firefighter with Spirit Lake Fire Protection District?

The Spirit Lake Fire Protection District hires qualified individuals as needed. We look for motivated people who are committed to serving the public with enthusiasm and integrity. As with most career districts, the selection process is highly competitive and should warrant serious preparation. When vacancies occur, we conduct our own hiring process, including a written exam, physical ability test, background questionnaire, and multiple interview panels.

How do I become a certified Firefighter or EMT?

There are multiple education pathways, including at North Idaho College.

What are the minimum requirements to be a firefighter at Spirit Lake?

Spirit Lake Firefighter minimum requirements are:

  • High School diploma or GED;

  • Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of application;

  • Idaho or IFSAC Firefighter Level I;

  • Idaho or National Registry EMT-Basic; and

  • Valid state drivers’ license.

Spirit Lake firefighter fighting a wildfire with firehose