Any Labor lawyers or otherwise smart people????

I have a question.

I have worked for a municipal EMS/FD dept for 6 years. We are required to carry a pager while we are on call. When we are on call we are required to remain at the station or within 5 minutes of the station. We are also required to carry our cell phones which receive calls. As a back up.

We are only paid when we actually get a call. We are also required to go to weekly training 4 hours a week. The usual on call time is 2-3 12 hour shifts. We are required to maintain certifications (city pays)

My question is this.

How can the city get away without paying us when they are requiring us to do certain things. Like for example stay at the station, or within the 5 minutes area. How can this be volunteer?

Also how can they require us to carry and use our phones for city business without compensation?

My understanding of a volunteer department is VOUNTEER. Meaning when we have time or are available.

Over the past 6 years I estimate that I have worked over 7400 hours. of which I have received est. $7000


What do you guys think?