Applicants must be at least 18 years of age to be considered for membership. Residency in St. Louis County is not required; however, non-residents must demonstrate the ability to meet attendance and participation requirements.
Rigorous background investigations accompany all accepted applications. Upon successful completion of the background investigation, applicants are then able to participate in selected squad operations in a non-member status. After approximately six (6) months as an active applicant, the applicant is brought before a vote of the membership. If accepted by a 2/3 majority vote, the applicant becomes a voting member of the unit.
New members serve a one year probationary period, during which time they are expected to complete orientation on squad practices and equipment, as well as obtain medical certification to at least the First Responder level.
Volunteer
The St. Louis County Rescue Squad is a volunteer organization.
Squad members are issued uniforms, pager, portable radio, and a limited complement of field gear. Approved expenses are reimbursed to the member.
Members are expected to:
- Attend meetings
- Respond to calls
- Train and practice to keep skills sharp
- Perform required maintenance on buildings and equipment
Members are expected to maintain a fully-stocked trauma kit in their personal vehicle, and should be prepared to "dress and go" in virtually any type of wilderness operation in any weather.
Rescue Squad membership requires a delicate balance between the demands of family, job and squad - a burden that should not be taken lightly when one considers applying for membership.
To effectively serve a 7000 square mile county (roughly the size of New Jersey), the Rescue Squad operates two regional headquarters: a Duluth office or "South Squad" and a Cook office or "North Squad".
The South Squad meets every Thursday beginning at 7:30 p.m. while the North Squad meets every Monday at 7:00 p.m. in Cook. Operational needs often require that the members of one office respond to the other's calls and for both offices to frequently work together on "joint" operations.
Membership and Application information