Firefighter Cadet Program

Become a Firefighter Cadet

Ever wondered what it's like to be a firefighter? Our cadet program lets teens train with the Custer Volunteer Fire Department, learn real firefighting skills and earn volunteer hours while serving their community.

WHO CAN JOIN

Students ages 14 to 17.
Application required. Every cadet submits an application.
Parent signature. A parent or guardian must sign the application.
Good standing at school. Cadets must stay in good standing with their school.
No illegal activity. Illegal activities are not allowed.

WHY JOIN?

Serve your community while earning volunteer hours.
Learn CPR, First Aid and essential firefighter skills.
Get Fire Department apparel.
See what firefighting is really like and find out if it is the path for you.
Do lots of cool stuff.

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE CADET PROGRAM?

Call Craig Johnson

Email the Department

Firefighters spray a hose line on a burning debris pile during live fire training

What Cadets Learn and Do

Cadets train alongside our firefighters and get hands-on experience.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

Tools of the trade
CPR and First Aid
Teamwork on and off the fireground
Hydrants and hose lays
Fire extinguishment
Vehicle extrication
Forcible entry
Roadway scene management

WHAT YOU WILL DO

Train and prepare to become a firefighter.
Join trainings, meetings and special events.
Go on emergency calls as your schedule allows.
Help on scene with fire extinguishment, traffic management and more.
Serve at community events like parades, the 4th of July and the Beetle Burn.

HOW OFTEN WE MEET

At least once a month for a meeting or training.
Extra training for specific skills may happen more often.
Occasional special events throughout the year.
As requested by the department.

Firefighter uses a hydraulic rescue tool on a pickup truck during vehicle extrication training

Typical Cadet Responsibilities

Anything to make it easier for our firefighters to be effective.

ON SCENE

Hydrant tagging
Hose lays
Throwing ladders
Tool presentation
Air tank replenishment
Traffic management
Truck replenishment

EQUIPMENT AND SUPPORT

Thermal imaging and gas detectors
Exhaust fans and ventilation
Lighting and generators
Radio communications

Custer firefighters watch a member climb a ladder at the station during training

How to Join

Ready to get started? Here is how to become a cadet.

1. GET AN APPLICATION

Contact Craig Johnson at (847) 732-9604 to get a cadet application.

2. SIGN IT

A parent or guardian must sign the application.

3. TURN IT IN

Return your completed, signed application to Craig Johnson. He will follow up with next steps.