The Courtenay Volunteer Fire Department is recruiting for the 2026–2027 training year and is inviting those interested to an open house next month.

Applications are now open, and the department will host the event May 28 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Courtenay Fire Hall on Cumberland Road.

The open house will give prospective volunteers a chance to meet firefighters, ask questions, and learn more about the training program and expectations.

The department hopes to bring on about 12 volunteers for the upcoming intake. Applications close June 5, with medical and fitness testing scheduled for early June, followed by interviews.

Successful candidates will begin training in September.

The 12-month program concludes with graduates earning professional firefighter certification at the same standard used by departments across North America.

Deputy Fire Chief Jonathan Welsh says the department is looking forward to meeting potential recruits and showcasing the training and facilities available.

He says the program is designed to provide the skills needed to achieve professional certification in one year and encourages anyone interested in firefighting to attend the open house and learn more.

To qualify, applicants must live within the City of Courtenay or the Courtenay Fire Protection District, be at least 18 years old, hold a valid B.C. driver’s licence, and be willing to provide a driver’s abstract and criminal record check. Candidates must also be physically fit and able to commit to weekly Tuesday night training sessions.

Training will take place at the Courtenay Fire Hall and the W.A. Lane MacDonald Fire Training Centre, with some specialized instruction conducted off-site.

Recruits will receive instruction in areas including confined space operations, auto extrication, live firefighting, first responder medical care, self-rescue techniques, wildfire response, and hazardous materials.

For more information, including how to apply, visit City of Courtenay or call 250-334-2513.