People of any age can gain practical experience by serving in the THW as a Federal Volunteer – or ‘Bufdi’, as they are known informally. This could be a placement in the volunteer-run local sections or in the staffed administration centres at the THW Headquarters, State Associations or Regional Offices.

BFD volunteers are also offered the chance to complete the operatives’ full THW Basic Training. This teaches them technical rescue techniques, how to use specialist tools and equipment, and the basic information on civil protection in Germany.
During the placement, seminars on political education and personal development also help them reflect on their practical experiences. This education and mentoring helps expand their horizons, also ensuring they have much to offer potential employers in the future.

There are flexible arrangements in place for hours of work, enabling them to take part in events, volunteer operatives’ evenings and the various BFD-specific events.