Become a Member

Join Vigilant Hose Company!

The Vigilant Hose Company is a volunteer Fire/Rescue/EMS department seeking dedicated individuals to join our team. Whether you want to fight fires, provide emergency medical care, or support operations behind the scenes, there’s a place for you here.

Why Join VHC?

• Serve your local community and thousands of visitors to the National Fire Academy, National Fallen Firefighters Memorial, and Mount St Mary's University.
• Respond to approximately 1,700–1,900 calls per year
• Operate modern, volunteer-owned apparatus.
• Gain free, high-quality training (Firefighter I, EMT, Rescue Technician, and more) through the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute (MFRI).
• Build lifelong skills, confidence, and a strong “second family” with fellow members.

Who are we looking for?

We welcome men and women of all backgrounds. No prior experience is necessary. We will train you from the ground up!

We are actively recruiting for:

• Firefighters
• EMTs and EMS Providers
• Support / Administrative Roles
• Auxiliary Members
• Explorers (Age 12-16)

Benefits of Membership:

As a member of Vigilant Hose Company, you’ll receive;

• Free Training & Certifications: All required training (Firefighter I, EMT, etc.) is provided at no cost to you.
• LOSAP – Earn financial benefits through Maryland’s Length of Service Award Program.
• Protective Gear: Turnout gear, and personal protective equipment are provided at no cost to you.
• Leadership & Skill Development: Opportunities to grow into officer positions, become an instructor, or develop specialized skills

How to Get Started:

1. Stop by the station any time for a tour (25 W. Main Street, Emmitsburg)
2. Fill out and submit an application for membership. Once application is received, someone from our recruitment team will reach out to you. Online Fillable Membership Form or Printable Application for Membership
3. Schedule Interview with our Investigating Committee

Contact Us:

Email: Recruitment@vhc6.com
Station Phone: 301-447-2728
Facebook/Instagram: @MainStreetEngineCo

Application for Membership

Complete the application form on this page — it is the company’s own membership application (the same questions as their online form), delivered straight to the company through PocketPapi. Prefer paper? Download the application (PDF).

Questions about joining: Recruitment@vhc6.com or call the station at (301) 447-2728.