Application Process

Please fill out the Harrisonburg Rescue Squad Online Application HERE

 
Thank you for your interest in the Harrisonburg Rescue Squad.  As you may know, HRS is an all-volunteer emergency medical services agency that responds to approximately 9,000 911 calls per year in Harrisonburg City and parts of Rockingham County.
 
 
The above link contains our online application for membership that can be filled out at any time.  The only certification required for membership is CPR/AED, which can be obtained from places such as Sentara RMH, Emergency Prep, LC, or the Central Shenandoah Emergency Medical Services Council.  We will accept any certification as long as it encompasses Adult, Child, and Infant CPR with AED (Automated External Defibrillator) education. At time of application we also require you to submit a Cover Letter and Driving History (obtained from the DMV).
 
If you have any questions about any of the above please let us know, and we look forward to seeing you at the station in the near future!
 

The Application Process

Applications are accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis; but should be turned in by the last Sunday of each month to be considered by the next Board of Directors meeting. It can take approximately 1-3 months from the time of submitting an application and for accepted members to begin running shifts. Please plan accordingly.
 
Example Timeline: if a complete application is submitted on January 20th. Application may be presented to the Board of Directors in February, and if accepted complete Training Academy in late February and shifts starting in March.
 

Timeline

Pre-Application Submission

Participate in one (mandatory) or two (optional) observer shifts.  These can be self scheduled here. Consider whether you can commit independently demonstrate knowledge, skill and performance competencies to HRS standards within a matter of months.
 

Application Submission

Submit your complete application: Application, typed cover letter, recent DMV history, copy of current CPR card, and copies of other relevant certifications.  Please add membership@harrisonburgrescue.org to your e-mail contacts to ensure prompt communication regarding your application.
 
 

Application Consideration

The Board of Directors will consider your application and determine whether to accept you as a member. The Board of Directors typically meets the first Tuesday of each month.
 

Notification

You will be notified of the Board of Directors’ decision via the email address you provided in your completed application.
 

Training Academy

Once accepted, new members are expected to attend a Training Academy, which is similar to a new member orientation, either that month or the next. Training Academy typically occurs during an eight-hour period spread out over one weekend.
 

Probationary Period

After completing Training Academy, new members begin their shifts with HRS. Additionally, these new members are welcome at the station to answer 911 calls or perform administrative duties at any time.
During the first six months of membership, probationary members participate in training and receive significant support and feedback from HRS.