The Chula Vista Fire Department utilizes full-time, compensated employees to fill the ranks in its Administrative, Operational, Prevention and Training divisions. There are no paid-call firefighters or fire reserves as are found around the country. Chula Vista Fire Department does recognize the value of community citizens participating in providing community service; therefore, the Department is associated with four volunteer programs.

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)

The CERT program educates people about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations.

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Citizens Adversity Support Team (CAST)

Since 1993, CAST has provided 24-hour trauma coverage for the community. Trained volunteers provide emotional support, arrange for follow-up services, serve as advocates for the rape victims, and generally assist families with their unique needs in time of trauma. The CAST program is a coalition of the Chula Vista Police and Fire departments, American Medical Service, Scripps Memorial Hospital, Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center, and Greenwood and Glen Abbey Mortuaries. Training sessions are scheduled at least once each year.

Additional information regarding the CAST volunteer program and how you may join can be found here.

South Bay Amateur Radio Society (SOBARS) 

SOBARS volunteer members lend their expertise to the City of Chula Vista Fire Department to support emergency preparedness and response efforts.  SOBARS has been an active ham radio club for 58 years with members from San Diego, National City, La Mesa, Chula Vista, Imperial Beach, Bonita and San Ysidro.  SOBARS meets monthly and has nets on Tuesday nights.

For more information, please visit www.sobars.org

Fire Explorer Post 2205

The Chula Vista Fire Explorers were developed in 1989, and are sponsored by Learning For Life. The goal of this program is to introduce young men and women to the activities related to the fire service. This training develops character, responsibility, and teamwork in the participant.  Applications are completed online and are accepted year-round.

Additional information regarding the Fire Explorers, including the Online Application, can be found here.

Chula Vista Firefighter’s Foundation (CVFF)

The Chula Vista Firefighter’s Foundation (CVFF) is an independent 501(c)3 non-profit that enjoys a close relationship with the Fire Department.  The CVFF is dedicated to providing assistance for disaster relief, safety, education and community needs of citizens of Chula Vista and surrounding area through humanitarian aid, financial support and general assistance to ensure quality of life. Comprised of active-duty firefighters and private citizens from the community, the CVFF is a 100% volunteer organization, hosting a variety of different family-friendly activities throughout the year to help bring awareness to the important causes outlined in the organizational mission.

Additional information regarding the CVFF and how you can help can be found here.