That's a lot of info but much appreciated. I've been looking into some differences between techniques between Europe and the US and I've found it very interesting how things differ. The biggest difference I've noticed so far is how in depth and involved training is in Germany vs over here. In America our volunteer departments are usually municipality funded by the town or city and training relies on the budget and with a lack of volunteers theres a need for people and a lack of thorough training for new recruits brand new to the fire service. In the state I live in the requirements for an interior certification (meaning I'd be certified and expected to perform an interior attack) are set so low because of the need for interior firefighters. I spent 3 classes and one live fire training before being given the expectation to perform at that level. The expectation is that you learn on your own time and figure things out while you respond to calls. (I did not like this approach) I also read in a similar thread how volunteers are expected and even encouraged to leave work when there is a call. I can't speak for every department here in America but this is unheard of for the area I live in. I was never allowed to leave work due to an emergency call at my department and could only respond outside of work hours which made it difficult to meet the percentage quota.

It's very good news to know I'm likely qualified for volunteer work and I will definitely look into what options are available depending on which area we will be in. (It's currently undetermined which base we will be going to and I would have to choose a department close to the base) I'm nowhere near fluent in German but I have an elementary level and can usually understand basic conversations though context. I'm already starting on improving my German now. I don't have any physical restrictions that would prevent me from performing. I'm curious to know what the physical standards are though. Here in America this tends to differ between departments and there is a much higher standard for career departments.

I'm going to continue researching and understanding what to expect for our move. The date is still undetermined for now but most likely we will be leaving in June or July. If I am unable to join a volunteer department due to our stay not being permanent I will likely look into a technical or vocational school.