FAQ
How long does it take until I am a member of the OFD?
The process takes an average of 3 to 4 months. During this time you will be able to explore the fire houses, select the company you would like to join, learn more about firefighting, the Oceanside Fire Department, your company and what it means to be a member.
What is the commitment like?
The Oceanside Fire Department is proud of the commitment its members make year after year. However, we recognize that our members have other obligations in their lives that can take precedence.
A new firefighter can expect to be present for the following:
Wednesday night trainings
Sunday morning details
Commitment to attend the necessary classes to receive your firefighting credentials from the Nassau County Fire Service Academy.
A minimum percentage of 25% of your company’s alarms.
What do you mean classes?
There is a series of classes needed to become a fully interior certified Class A firefighter:
Essentials of Firefighting: A informational class taught classroom style discussing firefighting history, procedures and overall fire science.
Primaries of Firefighting: A hands-on class where you will learn, practice and demonstrate firefighting skills including fire suppression and rescue.
Hazmat awareness: An introduction to handling hazmat incidents.
CPR/AED/First aid certifications.
These classes are often offered at multiple days/times to accommodate various life and work obligations.
All the classes needed will be provided free of charge.
What do you mean percentage of alarms?
Every emergency call we receive is dispatched by our in-house dispatcher. Various factors- like the time of day, nature of call and other information received will determine which resources/companies are sent. Once the dispatcher alerts the required resources, this become an alarm members respond to.
Each alarm your company is dispatched to will be counted towards your percentage.
After every alarm you attend, you will “punch-in” to receive credit for the alarm.
As a probationary firefighter, you must maintain a 25% of alarms attended.
The percentage will decrease with your length of service.
Do we do other activities not training/fire related?
Absolutely! Each company does various social events from game day watch parties, to team building activities like paintball and ski trips.
We also do various department events to involve you, and your family. Department BBQ’s, dinners and parades happen throughout the year.