(a) For the purpose of workers' compensation coverage in cases of injury to or death of an individual, volunteer firefighters of certified fire departments, other than municipal fire departments, who meet the requirements of this section are county employees and shall receive minimum compensation. Their survivors shall receive death benefits in the same manner as regular county employees for injury or death arising out of and in the course of their activities as firefighters.
(b) Volunteer firefighters requesting workers' compensation coverage shall annually file with the county clerk evidence that:
(1) The firefighter has met the minimum training standards recommended by the Arkansas Fire Protection Services Board; and
(2) The volunteer firefighter is a member of a certified fire department other than a municipal fire department.
(c) A member of a fire department under § 20-22-806 who does not engage in firefighting is eligible for workers' compensation under this section.