Morgan noted that all volunteer firefighters take Firefighter I training given by West Virginia University. Volunteers learn the basics - the use of air packs, how to handle hoses, which tools to use when, and the chain of command. They get additional training in classes put on in Jefferson and Berkeley Counties. Emergency calls are received by Jefferson County Headquarters. Headquarters calls the Fire Station and volunteers are called on their pagers.
All volunteers are on call at all times.
The work to be performed by volunteers on each call isn't strictly assigned. Members on hand do any job they are trained for. Morgan explained that what is done at an emergency scene is predetermined by operating guidelines -which equipment goes out first, how much equipment, and so on. There is a rescue unit with Jaws of Life and extrication tools and two ambulances. Many members of the Department are trained for both fire and ambulance work.