Join AVFD

Care for your neighbors on their worst day.

Run medical calls as a volunteer EMT with AVFD. We provide EMT training free of charge — whether you’re exploring a healthcare career or simply want to be the person who shows up.

The Upside

Why ride with us

Ride the ambulance

Respond to medical emergencies and care for and transport patients as a certified volunteer EMT.

Free EMT training

Full EMT-B certification is provided at no cost — no medical background required to get started.

A step toward healthcare

EMS experience is a proven pathway toward paramedic, nursing, PA, and other healthcare careers.

Shifts that fit

Sign up for the ambulance shifts that work for you, at Station 7 in Gambrills or Station 3 in Riva.

The Crew

See yourself here

An AVFD EMS provider standing at the back of the ambulance
Crew members training around a stretcher beside the medic unit
AVFD providers in gear taking a break between calls
Good Questions

Common questions

Do I need medical experience?

No. We provide EMT-B certification free of charge, and you train and ride alongside experienced providers.

Can I ride while I’m still in class?

Yes — EMT students have extra opportunities to ride the ambulance to meet state licensure requirements, once you’ve cleared a physical, background check, and orientation.

Is EMS all I can do?

You can focus on EMS, or cross-train for firefighting later — that’s up to you.

What’s the time commitment?

Riding members aim for about 48 hours a quarter, on the shifts you choose.