Fire Rescue Cadet Post 850

The Walton County Fire Rescue Cadet Post 850 is available for teens and young adults aged 14 to 19 years of age who have completed the 8th grade up to High School Seniors.

The purpose of the program is for young men and women considering a career in fire rescue and emergency services, to partner with Walton County Fire Rescue to gain practical training and experience through education, community involvement, and public service.

The program is primarily geared to middle and high school students, fire rescue cadets are introduced to fire fighting and rescue techniques through a regimented course of instruction based on teamwork and responsibility.

Emphasizing personal accountability, discipline, and respect for chain-of-command, the program features training in fire suppression, first aid and CPR, apparatus use, emergency medical response, mitigation of hazardous materials, and other areas. Cadets can experience the responsibilities of first responders through the Ride-Along program as they accompany firefighters and paramedics on actual emergency calls. Monthly meetings offer cadets instruction and real-life experience alongside professional firefighters and rescue personnel.

The program emphasizes community involvement: cadets participate in a variety of educational and public service projects that benefit Walton County residents and help build confidence and self-esteem among cadet ranks. Candidates must have the approval and cooperation of a parent or guardian and consent to a background investigation.

The program term is from August through July. Meetings are held every Tuesday (during summer break) and the first and third Tuesday of every month thereafter from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Cadets will receive:

  • The opportunity to develop skills, knowledge, and abilities in preparing for emergency service careers.
  • Training from fire officers, paramedics and firefighters.
  • Basic firefighting skills and first responder training.
  • Ride-alongs with Fire and EMS units.
  • Teamwork, self-confidence and leadership skills.
  • Participation insurance for each individual.
  • Walton County Fire Rescue Cadet t-shirt.
  • Opportunities to earn community service hours for participation in prescheduled specified events.

Selection Criteria:

  • Male or female between 14-19 years of age, or a senior in high school.
  • Law-abiding citizen with no criminal background.
  • Enrolled in school or participating in home school education.
  • Able to maintain a GPA greater than 2.0.
  • Involvement in extracurricular activities.
  • Commit to one meeting a month during the program term.
  • Commit to participation in yearly county events.
  • Preference will be given to returning cadets.
  • Cadet sponsorship and continuing education opportunities will be available to cadets who graduate from the program.

For more information on requirements of the program click here.

Apply today by downloading the full application here and emailing it to [email protected].

You can also complete the appliccation online by creating a profile on PoliceSafetyApp and filling out the Fire Cadet application here.