The Dalton Fire Department only takes applications for new firefighters once or twice a year, and a new application period is set to open in August. For the first time, the department will host a career fair and open house in July to give firefighter candidates a chance to learn more about the department and what it takes to be a Dalton firefighter before they apply. The department's "Discover Your Calling" event will be held on Saturday, July 19th at DFD Station 2 on Abutment Road from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm.
The department's goal for the event is to spread the word about the application period in August and also raise awareness of the benefits of a career in the fire service. Candidates will learn about the application process to become a Dalton firefighter, which includes background checks and physical fitness testing. Prospective applicants will also meet members of the fire department who will explain the pay scale and benefits, how firefighters work with a shift, the department's career advancement opportunities, and also tour the department's facilities. There will also be a demonstration of the physical agility and readiness test that all applicants are required to pass before they are hired.
"We're going to have all the parts of the test set up so they can see what it takes," said Cameron Cantrell, one of the DFD's training instructors. "For example, one aspect of the test is hoisting a section of hose to the top of the burn building. So, if you think you might have a hard time doing that, now is the time to practice. We'll let (the candidates) try it, and because they'll have about a month until the applications close, they have time to work on it."
The starting pay for new firefighters at the DFD is $56,500 a year. Dalton firefighters are on duty for 24 hours and then off for 48 hours, giving employees the flexibility to continue their education or work side jobs when they're not on shift.
"I always tell (applicants), hey, go to technical school and get a plumbing or electrical certification or something similar that you can do on your days off," said Lt. Donnie Blankenship, the DFD's Prevention Division coordinator. "You can work here at the fire department and get the benefits and then go there and you end up making a lot of money."
To join the Dalton Fire Department, candidates must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or general equivalent. However, anyone can attend the career fair to learn more about a future in the fire service. The department will be accepting applications for new firefighters from Aug. 1-15.
To attend the July 19th event, visit daltonga.gov/discoverdfd to sign up.