Serving the Bridgeport Valley · Eastern Sierra, CA
(760) 932-7353 EMERGENCY: 911
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Answer the Call

Bridgeport's safety depends on volunteers willing to step up. No prior experience required — just the commitment to serve.

Make a Difference

Why Volunteer?

Volunteer firefighting isn't just about fighting fires. It's about being there for your community when they need you most — whether that's a vehicle accident on Highway 395, a wildfire threatening homes near Twin Lakes, or an elderly neighbor who needs medical assistance.

As a BFPD volunteer, you'll receive professional-grade training worth thousands of dollars, join a tight-knit team of dedicated community members, and gain skills that last a lifetime. You'll know that when you hear the tones, you're one of the people who answers.

200+
Calls Per Year
500+
Training Hours
100%
Gear Provided
$0
Cost to You
Training Path

What to Expect

Application & Interview

Submit your application and meet with Chief Way for an informal conversation about your interest, availability, and what the role involves.

Background & Physical

Basic background check and physical fitness assessment. We'll make sure you're able to safely perform firefighting tasks.

Training Academy

Complete Firefighter 1 training — classroom instruction, hands-on drills, and live-fire exercises. We cover the cost and schedule around your life.

Active Duty

Respond to calls, attend weekly drills, and continue building skills. You'll be paired with experienced members as a mentor.

Qualifications

Requirements

✓ 18 Years or Older ✓ Bridgeport Area Resident ✓ Physically Fit ✓ Pass Background Check ✓ Complete Training Program ✓ Valid Driver's License

No prior firefighting experience required. We welcome people from all backgrounds and professions. If you live in or near Bridgeport and want to serve, we want to hear from you.

Questions

FAQ

We hold weekly drills (usually Tuesday evenings, about 2 hours) and ask volunteers to respond to calls when available. There's no minimum call response requirement — we understand you have jobs and families. Most active volunteers respond to 40-60% of calls.
No. The majority of our volunteers started with zero experience. We provide comprehensive Firefighter 1 training, wildland fire training, and ongoing professional development at no cost to you.
Yes. The district provides all personal protective equipment (PPE), including turnout gear, helmets, boots, gloves, and wildland fire gear. We also provide a pager/radio for call notifications.
BFPD is a volunteer department — there is no salary. However, volunteers may receive stipends for certain training events and deployments. The real compensation is serving your community and gaining skills that are genuinely valuable.
We understand that Bridgeport has seasonal residents. While we prefer year-round availability, we'll work with you. Some members are most active during fire season (summer/fall), which is when we need the most help.
Fill out the application form below, or stop by the station at 76637 Main St. during a Tuesday evening drill. You can also call Chief Way directly at (760) 203-5929 or email bptfire@gmail.com.
Step One

Apply to Volunteer

Fill out the form below and Chief Way will reach out to schedule a conversation.

Please enter your name.
Please enter your date of birth.
Please enter your address.
Please enter a valid phone number.
Please enter a valid email address.
Please tell us why you'd like to volunteer.

Sending your application...

Application Received!

We'll be in touch within a few business days.