RIDE ALONG

National City Fire Department Career Interest and Ride-Along Program

The National City Fire Department (NCFD) Career Interest Program is designed as a first step to provide exposure and job expectations for individuals interested in pursuing a career as a Firefighter with the National City Fire Department. Individuals newly looking at a career in the fire service are encouraged to reach out to the #JoinNCFD team to learn more about the career and to schedule a station visit.  

The NCFD Ride-along Program is designed to give individuals on the firefighter career path a hands-on experience of real world learning and emergency response.  In order to ensure the safety of participants and the public, the program is available to Paramedics/EMTs and (or) Volunteer/Reserve Fire Service personnel who meet the eligibility criteria outlined below. 


Ride-Along Eligibility Criteria:



​​​OR

If you are ineligible based on the above parameters please reach out via email at Joinncfd@nationalcityca.gov for potential exceptions for Ride-Along scheduling.

Program Details:

1. Participants will be assigned to a designated shift with an NCFD company from 0800-1700 Tuesday-Saturday.

2. Participants will be required to follow all NCFD policies and procedures, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment and following safety guidelines.

3. Participants will be encouraged to participate in all activities assigned by the Company Officer, including responding to emergency calls, station duties, and training activities.

4. Participants will not be allowed to engage in any firefighting or medical procedures unless under the direct supervision of the NCFD Company Officer.

5. Participants will not be allowed to engage in any activities that pose a risk to their safety or the safety of others.

Completion of the application form will not guarantee your scheduling for a Ride-Along as scheduling is limited due to the availability based on the National City Fire Department Training Calendar. 

Application Process:

1. Interested individuals must submit a completed Ride Along Application and Waiver to the NCFD Ride-Along program coordinator.

2. Applications will be reviewed by the NCFD Ride-Along program coordinator and NCFD personnel to ensure that applicants meet the eligibility criteria.

3. Once approved, participants will be contacted by a Recruitment team member for scheduling based on the training calendar availability.  

Please send completed applications and attached documents to Joinncfd@nationalcityca.gov for review