North Gaston Volunteer Fire and Rescue is powered by the volunteers who show up, train, and respond when the community needs them. Every member plays a part in carrying forward work the department has done since 1960.
Dennis Cash
Chief Dennis Cash leads North Gaston Volunteer Fire and Rescue, guiding the department's volunteers in their work for High Shoals and the surrounding area.
Joining the Team
Our membership is built entirely on volunteers who commit their time to serve the community. Anyone interested in becoming part of the team can learn more about the application process and requirements on our Volunteer page.
Interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter? Visit our Volunteer page to find out how to apply, or get in touch through our Contact page.
Volunteering with North Gaston Volunteer Fire and Rescue means becoming part of a proud tradition of community service that has been active since 1960. Every member, from the newest recruit to the most seasoned firefighter, contributes to the department's mission of protecting lives and property in High Shoals and the surrounding area. The team operates on a foundation of loyalty, honor, and dignity, responding to emergencies with professionalism and care. Volunteers come from all walks of life, united by a shared desire to make a positive difference. Whether answering medical calls or fighting structure fires, each member plays a vital role in keeping the community safe.
Training is a cornerstone of service with North Gaston Volunteer Fire and Rescue. New members receive thorough instruction in firefighting techniques, emergency medical response, and safety protocols before ever stepping onto the apparatus floor. Ongoing education continues throughout a volunteer's tenure, ensuring skills remain sharp and up to date with evolving industry standards. The department holds regular meetings and training sessions, creating an environment where members grow individually and as a team. This commitment to preparedness means that when an emergency call comes in, every responder knows exactly what to do, acting swiftly and effectively to protect those in need.
The benefits of joining the department extend far beyond the personal satisfaction of helping others. Volunteers gain valuable hands-on experience, build lasting friendships, and develop leadership skills that serve them in all areas of life. The department fosters a strong sense of camaraderie among its members, who train, respond, and grow together as one cohesive unit. Being a volunteer firefighter also instills discipline, problem-solving abilities, and the confidence to handle high-pressure situations. For those seeking to give back to their community while building meaningful skills, this is an opportunity to achieve both goals in a supportive, mission-driven environment.
Anyone interested in becoming part of the team can begin by learning about the application process and what the department expects from its members. The department welcomes individuals who are ready to commit their time and energy to serving others. No prior firefighting experience is necessary, only a willingness to learn and a desire to help. The leadership, guided by Chief Dennis Cash, is dedicated to developing each volunteer into a capable and confident responder. By stepping forward to serve, community members help ensure that North Gaston Volunteer Fire and Rescue continues to provide exceptional emergency services for years to come.
Learn More
Read about our department's history and mission on the About page, and see our volunteers in action on the Gallery page.