Benefits of Joining the Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company

Becoming a member of the Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company provides more than just the opportunity to serve your community. Members gain access to valuable benefits, professional training opportunities, and a strong sense of belonging within a dedicated team.

BAVFC operates three fire stations where members can respond to emergencies and spend time with fellow volunteers:

• Forest Hill

• Patterson Mill

• Downtown Bel Air

Each station is equipped with modern facilities and amenities designed to support our members both on and off duty. In addition, the department, county, and State of Maryland offer several benefits to active volunteer members.

 

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Retirement Program (LOSAP)

Harford County provides a Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP) for eligible volunteer fire and EMS personnel.

Members who complete 25 years of service and reach age 55 are eligible to receive a monthly pension stipend from the county.

Current benefits include:

• $300 per month after 25 years of service

• An additional $6 per month for each year beyond 25 years of service

• Maximum benefit of $450 per month

Members with 5 to 24 years of service, including at least five consecutive years of active service, are eligible for:

• $12 per month for each year of service

• Maximum benefit of $288 per month

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Maryland State Income Tax Credit - Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP)

Eligible volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel in Maryland may qualify for a state income tax credit. Members with at least three years of qualifying service may receive a tax credit of up to $7,000.

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Town of Bel Air Resident Property Tax Reduction

Members who live within the Town of Bel Air and pay municipal taxes may qualify for a $500 reduction in their town property taxes as a benefit of active membership.

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Personal Protective Equipment

All operational members are issued the personal protective equipment necessary to safely perform fire and EMS duties. This equipment is provided at no cost to the member and includes items such as turnout gear, helmets, gloves, and other safety equipment.

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Dress Uniform Provided

Bsed on years of service, the company will provide each member with a Class B Uniform (Dress Shirt). cover the full cost of the Class A dress uniform (Dress Shirt, Pants, Jacket, Hat) for members. The Class A and B uniforms are worn during official ceremonies, parades, and department events.

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Modern Station Facilities

All three BAVFC stations provide comfortable and functional facilities for members, including:

• Full-size bunk rooms

• Separate bathroom and shower facilities for men and women

• Fully equipped commercial kitchens

• Living rooms and recreation areas

These spaces allow members to rest, train, and spend time together while on duty or responding to calls.

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Live-In Program

Our newly remodeled Bel Air station has enhanced our current live-in program capabilities offers individuals an opportunity to serve the fire company and community in exchange for free housing. The Bel Air station offers eight private rooms, Jack and Jill bathrooms shared among two bedrooms, laundry facilities, kitchen, day room, and station gym. 

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Incentive Program

The Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company offers several incentive programs which all members that meet eligiblility requirements can participate in. Members can either choose to receive pay per duty hours OR a 529 College Savings Plan that directly pays for college tuition and associated costs. Current maximum incentive award is $1,750 per month, up to $21,000 a year.

Additionally, fire suppression members are also eligble for a 12-hour shift, Weekend, and Holiday Coverage duty service award program that rewards members quarterly for each 12-hour shift, weekend shift, or shift occuring on a holiday that they fulfill.

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Harford County NextGen Student Loan Repayment Assistance Program

The Harford County Government offers a student loan repayment assistance program for members pursuing educational opportunities up to $5,000 per year for up to 4 years of college, for a total of up to $20,000. More information can be found at here.

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Company dedicated Training Facility

The Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company has a dedicated training facility located onsite of our Forest Hill station that provides valuable opportunities for members to conduct forcible entry, search and rescue, hoseline deployment/management, vehicle extrication, roof operations, and many other training topics. 

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Free WiFi Access

Members have access to free WiFi at all BAVFC stations and facilities.

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Professional Training Opportunities

BAVFC provides extensive training opportunities for its members. Many courses are offered in-house, and the department may cover the cost of approved external training programs.

The State of Maryland also provides fire and EMS training at no cost to volunteer members. These courses are taught by accredited instructors and lead to the same professional certifications earned by career firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and paramedics.

Members have access to dozens of courses that support skill development, career advancement, and leadership training.

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Camaraderie and Lifelong Connections

One of the greatest benefits of joining the Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company is the camaraderie that comes with being part of a dedicated team.

Members build lasting friendships and share experiences that create lifelong memories. Volunteering can also become a family opportunity, with positions available not only in operational roles but also within the Auxiliary Division and administrative support functions.

No matter your skills or interests, there is a place for you to contribute and serve alongside others who are committed to protecting the community.