Requirements
To become a member of Lakes Area Rescue, you need to meet some requirements, such as:
- Minimum Age: Applicants must be at least 16 years old. Applicants under 18 may qualify for an apprentice membership with parental consent.
- Residency: Live or work in or near Coverage Area (Within 10mins)
- Physical Fitness: Capable of handling the physical demands of rescue operations, including lifting, carrying equipment, and outdoor activity in challenging terrain.
- Driver’s License: Must hold a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
- Background Check: Willingness to undergo a background check, including criminal history and driving record review.
- First Responder Course: Complete Basic First Aid and CPR certifications and an EMSRB-approved First Responder (EMR) course or higher within the first year (if applicable).
- Training Commitment: Willingness to complete initial and ongoing training, including EMS and Wilderness Search and Rescue (if applicable).
- Meeting Requirements: Attend at least 50% of quarterly business meetings and monthly training sessions.
- Public Events Participation: Participate in public events and medical coverage that Lakes Area Rescue provides throughout the year.
- Teamwork and Communication: Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively under high-stress situations.
- Equipment Care: Commitment to properly maintain and handle issued gear and equipment.
Membership Types
Regular Membership: Ideal for those who live or work within our service area and can commit to being a full-time member. You'll need to be ready for a 6-month probation, willingness to learn and adhere to training requirements. We provide all the necessary equipment and training support to keep your certifications up to date.
Affiliated Membership: For those already serving in neighboring Fire and/or EMS departments but wish to assist with calls in our service areas. No equipment is provided, but you're welcome to join our training sessions and meetings. Maintain your primary department's good standing, and you can be a valuable part of our team.
Seasonal Membership: Perfect for individuals who can't commit year-round due to living outside the area part of the year. Similar requirements and benefits as regular members, but tailored for those with seasonal availability. You'll still need to meet training and meeting attendance expectations during your seasonal period to maintain your membership.
No matter which membership fits your lifestyle, you'll be an essential part of our mission to provide top-notch emergency services to our community. Let's work together to save lives and keep our area safe!
Our Process
Lakes Area Rescue's membership process is a comprehensive journey designed to ensure new members are fully prepared, supported, and integrated into the team. It begins with an application, followed by a brief introductory call with a Lakes Area Rescue leader to set expectations, answer any questions, and clarify next steps. Candidates then participate in a panel interview with the membership team. Upon passing the interview, they review and sign department policies and complete a background check. Successful candidates are then invited to join as probationary members and meet with their assigned Team Officer to receive probationary gear. Each probationary member is paired with a mentor or buddy to help guide them through the process. If EMS training is needed, it's scheduled at this stage. Over the next six months, members complete a probationary period and any required training. After this period and training is completed, their membership is put to a vote at the next business meeting. Once approved as a regular member, they receive full equipment, signifying their full integration into Lakes Area Rescue.
Any questions: Email: info@lakesarearesuce.com or Call: 218-432-1444