How to Donate a Car for Fire Training

by Elton Dunn

fire truck image by AGITA LEIMANE from Fotolia.com

Fire departments large and small practice auto extrication so all members of the department learn how to use the Jaws of Life and remove people from vehicles after auto accidents. Donating your car to a fire department may save a life by ensuring firefighters know how to handle serious auto accidents. When you donate a car, you'll get a receipt that you can use to get a tax deduction.

Step 1

Clean all personal items out of your car.

Step 2

Locate your car title, which you will need to hand over to the fire department when you donate the car. The title must be in your name. If other people jointly own the car with you, they'll need to sign the title as well.

Step 3

Call your local fire department and ask whether they need vehicles for auto-extrication training. Many local departments have an ongoing need for cars for these exercises. If they need vehicles, ask how you can deliver the car and whether there is any additional paperwork you need to bring (aside from the title).

Step 4

Check with regional fire departments if your local department does not need cars. Continue checking with fire departments in your region until you find a match.

Step 5

Drop the car off at the fire department with the appropriate paperwork. Sign over the title to the fire department and hand it to them. If you've arranged for a tow truck to take the car, sign the title to the tow company.