Volunteer Opportunities

Give Back, Get Connected

Montana communities run on volunteers. Many services handled by paid professionals in larger cities depend on local people willing to step in and help. One of the most meaningful ways to become part of a rural Montana community is to give your time. Volunteering here is personal—you’ll work alongside your neighbors, and your contributions will be seen, felt, and appreciated.

The Basics: Your Home's Safety Zones

Think of three zones around your home:

  • Zone 1 (0–5 feet): Keep this area clear—no leaves, firewood, or dead plants.
  • Zone 2 (5–30 feet): Thin vegetation, space trees and keep grass short.
  • Zone 3 (30–100 feet): Remove dead branches and space trees apart.

Essential Actions to Reduce Fire Risk

  • Clean gutters and remove pine needles, leaves and debris from roofs, decks and within 5 feet of your home.
  • Store firewood at least 25 feet from structures.
  • Keep grass short and vegetation well maintained.
  • Trim tree branches away from structures.
  • Use gravel or stone directly next to structures.

Fire and Emergency Readiness

  • Get a free home fire risk assessment.
  • Make sure emergency vehicles can safely access your property.
  • Identify at least two evacuation routes from your neighborhood.
  • Store important documents in a fireproof safe.
  • Practice your evacuation plan with your household.

Quick Do / Don’t Guide

DO
  • Choose fire-resistant plants near structures.
  • Replace wood fencing near your home with metal.
DON’T
  • Store flammable items under decks or porches.
  • Allow vegetation to touch your home or deck.

Why Fire Safety Matters Beyond Your Property

Fire preparedness strengthens entire communities.
When homes are fire-safe, firefighters can focus on stopping fires instead of just defending individual houses.
Defensible space helps protect your neighbors' homes, too.
Fire-safe communities are more resilient and recover faster from wildfire events.
Many Montana fire departments are staffed by volunteers from the community; when everyone does their part, it reduces the burden on these essential services
Good fire preparation helps emergency responders do their jobs safely.

Simple Steps for Big Impact

  • ✓ Replace wood fencing with metal near your house
  • ✓ Plant fire-resistant plants close to home
  • ✓ Keep important documents in a fireproof safe
  • ✓ Practice your evacuation plan with your family
  • X Store anything flammable under decks or porches
  • X Let vegetation touch your house or deck

Local Fire Resources

Request Free Home Assessment

County Fire Preparedness

Burn Permits by County

Clean Air Centers