So You Want to be an Colona Fire Fighter What do fire fighters do? Colona fire fighters today do much more than just fight fires. We provide rescue services; handle hazardous chemical emergencies; and conduct fire prevention, investigation and inspection activities. Colona firefighters also do most of the cleaning and maintenance work required to keep our tools, equipment, buildings, and apparatus ready for immediate response. The citizens also depends on Colona fire department to provide emergency medical services before the ambulances arrive. What are the minimum requirements? You must be 18 years of age. You will need to be a high school graduate, or equivalent, and not have been convicted of a felony crime. Colona fire department is a drug free workplace with a zero tolerance policy in effect. You also must be a resident of Colona or reside in our fire district. How do I begin the process? Go to the fire department, there is always someone there Monday nights from 6-9, or call 309-792-3231. Ask for an application, fill it out and return it to us. What happens next? After your application is reviewed to determine if you meet the minimum  requirements, you will be asked to attend a meeting with the officers and they will go over the rules and regulations and what is expected of you if you are hired. A background check of your character and criminal records will be conducted and a drug test will be administered. So you've been accepted, what's next? You will begin a probationary period of two years. The first three months of the probation will be non-active probation where you will not be allowed to go on any calls. You must attend every practice. You will be assigned a senior firefighter who will help you complete a list of basic skills. Once you have completed these skills and three months have elapsed, and at the officer's approval, you will be put on active probation. You will be assigned a pager and a blue light for your vehicle and be allowed to go on calls. Within the remaining year and nine months of your active probation you must obtain your Illinois State Firefighter II certification and obtain a non-CDL drivers license. You must also attend atleast 50% of practices in order to be considered active. If you have completed all of the requirements you will be a fully recognized firefighter with the Colona Fire Department. Good luck! Fire fighting and emergency service is a rewarding activity. However, it requires a certain amount of sacrifice and willingness to endure some unusual and difficult circumstances. You'll need to be a real team player.