In the wake of the wildfires that have touched so many of our lives, one of the most powerful things we can do is prepare together.
The City of Hidden Hills is pleased to share that the LA Environmental Protection Foundation (LAEPF) Community Brigade — in partnership with the Los Angeles County Fire Department — is actively recruiting new volunteer members from our community.
This is an opportunity to:
Receive real firefighter and emergency response training
Earn official FEMA and wildfire response certifications
Learn critical preparedness and safety skills
Serve alongside trained professionals
Help protect Hidden Hills and surrounding communities during emergencies
Whether you have prior experience or are simply motivated to serve, the Community Brigade welcomes residents who are committed, community-minded, and ready to make a difference.
How to Apply
Interested residents may apply through the LAEPF Community Brigade website:
Once on the website, select the “Volunteer Application” option to begin the application process.
Applicant interviews are already beginning, and applicants will receive scheduling information directly from the Community Brigade team after submitting their application.
FEMA Training Courses
As part of the onboarding and firefighter training pathway, applicants are asked to complete FEMA Independent Study (ICS) courses online.
These nationally recognized emergency management courses introduce the Incident Command System used by fire departments, emergency responders, and disaster management agencies throughout the country. The training helps volunteers understand how emergency incidents are organized, managed, and coordinated during wildfire and disaster response operations.
Required Courses
Highly Recommended
After completing each course, participants should download and save their completion certificates and email copies to:
Certificates must be submitted no later than June 28, 2026.
Firefighter Training
Hands-on firefighter training will be conducted by Chief Dave Updike of the U.S. Forest Service.
Participants may earn certifications in:
S-110 — Basic Wildland Fire Suppression
S-130 — Firefighter Training for Wildland Fire Operations
S-190 — Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior
L-180 — Human Factors and Leadership in Wildland Fire Service
Training Dates
Session 1
Dates: June 6, June 7, and June 13
Time: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Location: TBD
Room: TBD
Session 2
Dates: June 27 and June 28
Time: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: TBD
Room: TBD
Additional information regarding locations, uniforms, PPE, and equipment distribution will be shared directly with participants.
Physical Readiness
Designated field personnel will complete the Arduous Pack Test:
3 miles in 45 minutes
Carrying a 45-pound pack
Preparation guidance will be provided ahead of testing.
Questions
For all questions regarding applications, training, interviews, or course requirements, please contact the Community Brigade team directly:
Terri Pond
terri.pond@laepf.org
818-929-2736
Jenni Palmer
support@laepf.org
The City of Hidden Hills is sharing this opportunity on behalf of the LAEPF Community Brigade to support community preparedness and resilience efforts.