Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to have certifications to join the Rescue Squad?

Do I have to be 18 years old to join the Rescue Squad?

If I have received a background check from another business, do I need to complete another one for the Rescue Squad?

If I don't live in Smithfield, can I go to any police department and received a finger print card?

Why does the Rescue Squad need fingerprints and criminal background checks?

What can I expect after I submit the application?

What can I expect from the Interview?

Can I do a ride-along before submitting the application?

What if I am a college student and need to take off for the summers, does the squad accommodate?

BASICS

Do I have to be 18 years old to join the Rescue Squad?
 

No, the minimum age to join the Rescue Squad is 16. Members under the age of 18 join the squad as Junior Members. There are some restrictions for junior members and upon turning 18, they are moved to full member status.

If I have received a background check from another business, do I need to complete another one for the Rescue Squad?
 

Yes, you will need to get a new background check performed by the state office.

FINGERPRINTS

Why does the Rescue Squad need fingerprints and criminal background checks?
 

The Virginia Office of EMS made mandatory in July 2014 that all new employees or volunteers applying for an EMS job in the commonwealth would be required to have a federal background check. In abiding by the state requirements, fingerprints are submitted to the state, so they can run a criminal background check on all applicants. Currently, we use Fieldprint to conduct fingerprints for background screening. The process takes less than a month and upon completion, a letter is sent back to the squad and is placed in the applicant's file.

PROCESS

What can I expect after I submit the application?
 

After submission of the application, it is reviewed by the Vice President of Membership and an interview is set up with any board member or operational officer. After the interview, you will receive an email with an invitation to an orientation event. During the orientation event, you will receive more information on the rescue squad and will be given access and instructions to the scheduling system. Depending on your certification level, you will also receive a packet for precepting. After your orientation, you will be released as a probationary member for 90 days.

What can I expect from the Interview?
 

The interview is a way for the rescue squad to meet the applicant and get an idea of who they are and answer any questions they may have. It also allows us to discuss any issues that may have been brought up with the application or any missing information that may be needed to complete the process.

Can I do a ride-along before submitting the application?
 

Yes, we encourage it! A ride-along is a good way to gain experience and find out if joining a volunteer rescue squad is something you want to do. To do a ride-along, you will need a valid driver’s license or state ID card and an active BLS/CPR card (Healthcare Provider Level). Ride-along forms can be found online or at the Rescue Squad. Ride along can be completed any day of the week between 0800 and 2000 and are limited to 12-hour shifts. Overnight shifts are not available to observers.

COLLEGE STUDENTS

What if I am a college student and need to take off for the summers, does the squad accommodate?
 

Yes! We have a lot of members who are students at the surrounding schools and understand that they leave for the summers to go home. We accommodate our members with educational leave and personal time as needed.

Contact Questions

If you have any additional questions, please be sure to email them to Lt. Communications.