Volunteer Fire Department

Our Department

Marathon Emergency Services consists of 1 Full-Time Fire Chief, and up to 40 Volunteer Officers, Firefighters, and Dispatchers. Our volunteer officers have the responsibility of being our front line supervisors and also assume other roles including training officer, fire prevention officer, mechanical officer, PPE/communications officer, and OSARVA officer.

The Department operates under the direction of the Fire Chief who is responsible to the Mayor and Council through the CAO.

Marathon Emergency Services Department runs an annual recruit program that hires and trains new members. There is also a Cadet Program for students aged 16-18 that allows students to receive their volunteer hours while receiving world class training that will benefit them in their future endeavors.

The fire services in general has evolved over the years to include many functions other than fire response. This holds true for Marathon Emergency Services as we respond to an average of 80-100 calls for service per year.

Qualification Criteria

Minimum of 18 years of age
Physically fit
Successfully completed Grade 12 or equivalent
Hold valid Ontario Drivers Licence (Class “DZ” preferred)
Willing to abide by rules and policies outlined by the Marathon Emergency Services Department

To apply to join our team, fill out our online application!

Volunteer Firefighter Application

(paper copies available at the Town Office)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a cost to the required training?

There is no cost to the individual Cadet, Recruit or Firefighter. The Department provides most of the training in house and will cover the costs for any external training required. You also receive an honorarium for time spent training.

How much do I have to pay for protective clothing?

All required protective clothing is provided by the Department.

I am covered by insurance?

All of our members are covered under WSIB when working for the department. There is also addition insurance coverage provided to all members through VFIS (Volunteer Firemen's Insurance Service Inc.).

Are Volunteer Firefighters paid?

Volunteer Firefighters receive an honorarium for hours worked for the Department.

How much time can I expect to devote to being a Volunteer Firefighter?

Due to the nature of our job it can fluctuate week to week, month to month and year to year. Members are required to make a minimum of 80 hours per year of training and 25% of emergency calls. On average you can expect to spend 4-5 hours per week.

How often will a Volunteer be on call to respond?

Our town relies on volunteers to respond to every call for service there is. Therefore we need to ensure adequate number of members available 24/7/365. We expect all of our volunteers to respond when they are available but we do understand that not everyone is available every second of every day. A minimum of 25% emergency response is required.

How quickly does a Volunteer Firefighter have to respond to a call?

It is expected that all available members respond immediately upon receipt of a page as seconds can count when we are dealing with lives and fires! Of course we expect all of our members to follow the rules of the road and arrive safely at the fire station.

How long do emergency call outs last?

On average a call out would be an hour but that may be extended into multiple hours for complicated situations or structure fires.

What will I learn in training?

A firefighter is taught all aspects of the job including: fire response, medical assistance, rescue, truck and equipment operation, etc. In the volunteer service all members will be able to fill different roles.

Is there a medical examination prior to acceptance?

Yes, a medical form will be provided by the Town of Marathon for your family doctor to complete.

*This cost is covered by the municipality.

Will there be physical testing prior to acceptance?

Yes, our physical fitness committee will put all potential recruits through a series of physical tests to ensure they are capable of performing the duties of a firefighter.

*No prior firefighting experience is required to complete the tasks.

Is a criminal record check required prior to acceptance?

Yes, a criminal record check with vulnerable sector is required prior to acceptance.

*This cost is the responsibility of the applicant.

Is a drivers abstract require prior to acceptance?

Yes, a driver’s abstract is required prior to acceptance.

*This cost is the responsibility of the applicant.

How are recruits integrated with current members?

The recruits will attend weekly training with current members and respond to emergencies with regular members as training is obtained. Recruits will be separated during recruit training sessions that take place on alternative dates.

Is there a social aspect to being a member of the Volunteer staff?

The Department is committed to community contributions that members take part in that include Public Education events, Parades, BBQ’s, station tours, etc. There is also a Firefighters Association that organizes fundraisers and social events.

Interested in joining the Volunteer Fire Department but have more questions? Contact our Fire Chief!