Rescue

Fire Company

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Join the Rescue Fire Company — Be Part of a Legacy Since 1881

Serving Cambridge and Dorchester County with Pride, Tradition, and Dedication.

Every call matters. Every member matters. For more than 140 years, the Rescue Fire Company (RFC) has stood as a pillar of strength in Cambridge. When you join, you’re not just volunteering, you’re joining a proud team built on courage, commitment, and a shared purpose.

Why Join Rescue Fire Company

When you volunteer with RFC, you become part of a family that has been protecting the community since 1881. You’ll gain real skills, lifelong friendships, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact every day.

Here’s what sets RFC apart:

  • Free Fire & Rescue Certifications through the Maryland Fire & Rescue Institute (MFRI)
  • Modern Apparatus & Equipment ready for any emergency
  • Mentorship & Teamwork from experienced firefighters
  • Community Impact with every call you answer
  • A Place for Everyone — whether you want to be on the front lines or behind the scenes

You’ll serve beside neighbors helping neighbors, all working together to keep Cambridge safe.

Find Your Fit

No matter your age or experience level, there’s a role for you at RFC.

Firefighting Path — Step Into the Action

Start as an Entry Firefighter I and train side by side with experienced mentors. You’ll earn certifications and hands-on experience that few other opportunities can offer. After certification, advance to Firefighter II, taking on interior firefighting responsibilities. Members who complete Active Check-Offs can earn Active Status, which includes driving privileges, voting rights, and eligibility to serve as a fireground officer.

Honorary Path — Serve Behind the Scenes

If firefighting isn’t your path but service still calls to you, become an Honorary Member. Help with administration, fundraising, public events, and community outreach. The work you do keeps the department strong and connected to the people we serve.

Under 18 — Cadet Member

Ages 14–17 can begin their journey early as Cadet Members. Learn fire service fundamentals, assist at community events, and train under supervision through MFRI. It’s the perfect way to build leadership, discipline, and teamwork while preparing for future service.

Member Benefits

When you join Rescue Fire Company, we invest in you. All training and certifications are covered, and members receive benefits designed to support both personal and professional growth.

  • Free MFRI Fire & Rescue Certifications
  • Gear, Uniforms, and Equipment Provided
  • On-Site Fitness Facility (24/7 Access)
  • Tuition Assistance & College Credit for Training
  • Insurance & Worker’s Compensation Coverage
  • LOSAP Retirement Program
  • Local Business Discounts & Tax Incentives
  • Annual Recognition Awards

Whether you’re starting your public safety career or simply want to give back, you’ll gain skills and experiences that last a lifetime.

Four people stand behind a table with a red “Rescue Fire Company” banner; three wear matching shirts and one wears firefighter gear. Items, papers, and a helmet are on the table. Blue bleachers are in the background.

Ready to Step Up?

Becoming a volunteer firefighter or support member at RFC is about more than answering calls; it’s about community, leadership, and family.

Join a team where your courage and commitment matter. Serve beside people who will have your back on every call and every challenge.

Join the legacy. Serve with pride. Apply today.

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Be Part of a Legacy Since 1881

Rescue Fire Company protects Cambridge and Dorchester County with a fleet of modern fire apparatus, highly trained volunteers, and a proud legacy of service. From major fires on the waterfront to life-saving medical calls in the heart of the city, RFC has been there for generations and continues to stand ready today. With a reputation built on professionalism, tradition, and heart, RFC is more than a fire company. It is a family committed to protecting the community we call home.

  • Deep Roots: Since 1881, RFC has been woven into the fabric of Cambridge, standing ready day and night to serve.
  • Unmatched Experience: From fires and rescues to medical emergencies, our members gain hands-on skills that few ever experience.
  • Family & Friendship: Whether on the fireground or at the firehouse, you will find lasting friendships, mentorship, and a second family that is always there for you.
  • Community Impact: Every call you respond to changes lives. Every hour you give strengthens your town. At RFC, you will see the difference you make.
  • A Place for You: Whether you are a student looking for purpose, a retiree wanting to give back, or someone simply seeking adventure, you belong here.
  • Back, Grow Forward: Whether you’re a student, a retiree, or somewhere in between, there’s a place for you here.
A brick sign reads "City of Cambridge Department of Public Safety, Edward E. Watkins Complex," with EMS, Fire, and Police emblems displayed beneath the text. Lush trees are visible in the background.
A two-story brick building with arched entryways, white railings, and flagpoles in front. One flag is raised. The entrance is paved, with small trees and a wheelchair-accessible parking space visible.
A fire truck with an American flag grill is parked on a highway near firefighters attending to a black car involved in an accident. Debris is scattered on the road under a blue sky with light clouds.
Four people pose indoors: three adults in black shirts, shorts or jeans, and hats, standing beside a smiling child who is wearing oversized firefighter gear and helmet. They are on a gym floor with blue bleachers behind them.
Four people stand indoors by a table covered with a red "Rescue Fire Company" cloth. Three wear navy shirts, and one, smiling, is wearing full firefighter gear. Blue bleachers and a white wall are in the background.
Two firefighters in full gear work to extinguish a house engulfed in bright orange flames and heavy smoke, as fire burns through the roof and walls near a white picket fence.
People gather around a red "Rescue Fire Company" tent at an outdoor event. Volunteers hand out items, and several children wear plastic fire helmets. Fire trucks and banners are visible in the background.
A large red and white fire rescue truck is parked on a concrete driveway in front of a brick building with several garage doors. The truck has “Cambridge” and an American flag on the front grille.
A large brick building with a green roof, cupola, and arched entrances. A red emergency vehicle is parked in front, near empty parking spaces and flagpoles. The area is clean and freshly paved.
A brick building with arched entryways and a cupola, two flagpoles with flags, and a red fire chief SUV parked in front. The parking lot is mostly empty.