Hilden is looking for heroes

Become part of our heroic team

As a member of the Hilden volunteer fire department, you not only rescue people in need, but are also part of a strong community that sticks together and supports each other. Regardless of whether you are interested in active service or the youth fire department, you will find a wide range of opportunities to contribute your skills and develop personally.



Why you are #hildenhaft

  • You help people in need and actively contribute to the safety of our city.
  • You will learn new skills and receive first-class training.
  • You are part of a strong team that sticks together and supports each other.
  • You will experience exciting exercises and varied assignments that will challenge and develop you.
  • You make new friends and become part of a unique community.

How you can become a member of the Hilden fire department

1. find out about the various membership options on our website in the FAQ section

2. take part in one of our information events in September to find out more about the Hilden Volunteer Fire Brigade and our work.

3. fill out the contact form and send it back to us.

4 We invite you to an interview and our information event.

5 After successful admission, you will become part of our team and can complete your basic training as a firefighter over the course of a year starting in October.

Together we are strong: Become a member of the Hilden volunteer fire department!

Ready to become part of our heroic community? Then don't hesitate any longer and get in touch with us today! We look forward to getting to know you and working with you to keep our city safe.

FAQ

  • Do I have to have German citizenship?

    No, all nationalities are welcome.

  • Will the protective clothing cost me anything?

    Protective clothing and uniforms are provided by the Hilden fire department; there are no costs for the emergency services.

  • Will the training cost me anything?

    The Hilden fire department also covers the costs of your training with the volunteer fire department.

  • Where does the training take place?

    The training usually takes place for members of the volunteer fire department at various locations in the Mettmann district. The first two modules are planned for the Hilden site.

    The courses usually take place on Fridays from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

  • How long does the training take?

    The basic training is carried out in several courses and comprises a total of around 230 hours.

    The courses last approx. 4 weeks and usually take place on Fridays from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and comprise different modules. The first two modules are planned for the Hilden location. Coordination with the new members is planned.

  • Am I insured against accidents?

    Yes via the Unfallkasse NRW.

  • Which fire department is right for me?

    In principle, the station closest to the place of residence is considered.

  • Do I have to sign up to the volunteer fire department?

    You can decide for yourself whether you want to join the volunteer fire department and you can, of course, leave at any time. However, if you decide to become a member, you are required to regularly take part in exercises, operations and comradely events.

  • What if I am working?

    According to the law, the employer must continue to pay the firefighter's full salary. However, the employer can reclaim this money from the municipality of the fire department. In practice, this should also be discussed with the employer in advance.

  • When do the professional and when do the volunteers travel?

    The so-called AAO - Alarm and Deployment Order - specifies when which vehicle or unit is alerted. For everyday operations, it is primarily the full-time fire brigade that goes out. In the case of special objects with a high hazard potential, the volunteer fire department is alerted at the same time. In the event of major operations or simultaneous incidents in the city area, the volunteer fire department supports the full-time forces.

  • Why do some firefighters wear colorful vests?

    Depending on their level of training, some members of the emergency services have higher-ranking functions. For example, the head of operations wears a yellow vest, the group leader a red one, the section leader a white one and the press spokesperson a green one. This means that the contact person for a particular function is always recognizable and you don't have to search long to find them.

  • What does the youth fire department do?

    Technology, sport and fun: the youth fire department offers a lot to experience and learn, from exciting firefighting content to camps and excursions. If you want to find out what a youth flame is, learn more about new media or science or simply meet new people, get in touch with your local youth fire department.

  • Is there an entrance test or examination?

    This varies depending on the job. Basic training with the corresponding performance certificates is mandatory for use in emergency services. Proof of breathing apparatus suitability is also required for operations with breathing apparatus.

  • How will I be informed about an assignment?

    All firefighters are equipped with radio alarm receivers. These are small devices that can be alerted by the control center. The detector signals an alarm by means of an acoustic signal and vibration.

  • When is a member of the volunteer fire department on duty?

    The service currently takes place every second Sunday from 9 am to 11 am and every six weeks on a Wednesday from 7 pm to 9 pm.

    In principle, the Hilden Volunteer Fire Department alerts different standby teams depending on the size of the operation.