The development of volunteer services in Armenia has always been one of the important directions for applying international experience and effectively utilizing local potential. Especially in the context of preventing and responding to emergencies and disasters, the role of volunteer firefighters is increasingly growing.

The Rescue Service of the RA Ministry of Internal Affairs is coordinating the activities of the training and qualification of volunteer forces within the framework of the "Institutionalization of the Voluntary First Response Service in the Republic of Armenia" (VOLFIRE) programme .

The main purpose of the programme  is to establish and develop a volunteer first response service in Armenia, create clear standards for the selection, training and qualification of volunteer firefighters, as well as ensure their full integration into the emergency management system. This process is aimed not only at increasing the safety of the population, but also at strengthening the resilience of communities. 

By the order of the Director of RS-Deputy Minister of IA a commission was established to oversee the qualification process for volunteer firefighter. This process was organized and conducted in Garni and Meghradzor communities in Kotayk Province.

A total of 23 volunteer firefighter participated in the qualification assessment. Out of these, 20 were granted the qualification rank of “Rescuer”, while the remaining 3 reaffirmed their previous qualification rank. The volunteers earned their respective qualifications by demonstrating their readiness and capabilities to serve their communities and homeland in a challenging yet honorable mission.

The implementation of the VOLFIRE programme continues across various communities in Armenia, involving new volunteers, organizing training sessions, and conducting evaluation stages. This ongoing process not only contributes to building a safer society but also shapes the image of an active, responsible and compassionate citizen as a prepared to respond to any challenge.

The spirit of volunteer rescue in Armenia is gaining new momentum, becoming an integral part of the modern public safety system.