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Crime & Safety

Minnetonka Looking for a few Good Firefighters

People who apply now would start sometime at the beginning of 2012 if they pass all the required tests.

Two months after the hired a new batch of on-call volunteer firefighters, the process of searching for new recruits begins once again.

“We’re constantly looking for more firefighters,” said Minnetonka Fire Chief Joseph Wallin. “I think we currently have eight openings due to retirements,” he said.

To be an on-call volunteer firefighter in the city of Minnetonka, applicants have to be “in acceptable physical condition.” Translation: they have to have the physical abilities to open a hydrant, drag a mannequin, raise a ladder and drag a hose.

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People who think they have those abilities, according Wallin, could be one of the select few who are hired by the department every year.

The application process generally takes about six months.

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“A lot of people think they know what firefighting is, and oftentimes it’s different than what they anticipate,” Wallin said.

Aside from the physical requirements, applicants have to go through an interview, undergo a criminal background check, a drug screening and a reference check. And if that weren’t enough, Wallin says candidates are also sent to a career counselor to make sure they have a personality that fits the job.

But, Wallin stressed, applicants are not required to have any experience.

“We can train people to be firefighters, but we can’t give them character,” he said. “So we’re looking for people with character to walk through the door.”

A few other requirements are necessary to receive consideration. Applicants must:

  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Have a valid driver’s license
  • Live within 15 minutes of one of Minnetonka’s five fire stations
  • Be in acceptable physical condition (see above)
  • Pass all required tests

If hired, firefighters have to attend weekly training sessions and department meetings on Tuesday nights or Wednesday mornings.

For more information on how to apply, check out the City of Minnetonka website.

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