Firefighting isn't just about putting out flames. Here’s what’s really involved and what it takes to become one. Show
Although the title may suggest otherwise, firefighters aren’t always fighting fires. As the Institute for Apprenticeships & Technical Education: an organisation which oversees apprenticeship standards and assessment plans If you are thinking of becoming a firefighter, then you probably enjoy serving other people. Firefighting is a challenging career with tough physical and mental requirements, but it can also be very rewarding. What are the requirements to be a firefighter? Let’s take a closer look at what it takes to become a firefighter in your city. Basic Firefighter RequirementsFirefighter requirements may vary depending on where you live, but many of the same principles will apply in most locations. We will start with four basic requirements that apply to most regions. 1. AgeAccording to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, to become a firefighter, many departments require you to be at least 18 years old. That number can vary, however, and some departments have a maximum age as well. For example, the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) requires new firefighters to be at least 21 by the time of their time of appointment, and applicants cannot have reached their 29th birthday by the time they begin the application process. 2. EducationAt a minimum, firefighters need a high school diploma or equivalent. Many firefighters also pursue additional training and education before becoming a firefighter. Related: Beyond the Firehouse: Career Options With a Fire Science Degree 3. BackgroundFirefighters should expect to undergo a background check and have a clean history, meaning no felonies or significant criminal records. Dishonorable discharge from the military could also deter aspiring firefighters from getting hired. A good driving record might also be required. 4. CharacterFirefighters are expected to exhibit strong character, and some employers may check social media accounts for applicants. Be careful about posting material that may be embarrassing to a potential employer. Fire AcademiesEntry-level firefighters typically are required to attend several months of training at a fire academy run by their department or their state. Some firefighters also attend trainings conducted by the National Fire Academy. Trainings at a fire academy may include classroom learning and live fire training. EMS CertificationsA career as a firefighter isn’t just about putting out fires. Sometimes firefighters are the first to arrive at a scene with medical emergencies, which is why obtaining your EMS certification is helpful. Some fire departments require applicants to have EMT or paramedic certification from the NREMT before hiring them as firefighters. Even in areas where EMS training is not required, having your EMT license can give you a competitive advantage over other applicants. Related: EMS Certifications: An Overview Physical Ability TestsServing as a firefighter requires top physical conditioning as it is a physically demanding job. Fire departments often administer physical ability tests to make sure that applicants can adequately perform their job duties. For example, the Houston Fire Department conducts PATs with the following components:
Written TestsTo become a firefighter, you must also pass a written exam to prove that you have strong knowledge of firefighting. Tests can vary based on where you are taking them, so it may help to call your local department to learn what kind of test you will be taking so that you can adequately prepare. Ask if a study guide is available, as that can help you see what types of questions may appear on the test. In addition to firefighting knowledge, written tests may include questions about reasoning and other fundamental skills. You may see questions about math, logic, reading comprehension, maps and directions, and more. For a more detailed look at firefighter written tests, view the video below from FirefighterNOW: Learn More About Becoming a Firefighter TodayAdvanced coursework can help you secure a job as a firefighter and get promoted during your career. To learn more about the FESHE-recognized online education options at Columbia Southern University, view the video below featuring CSU fire and emergency services curriculum lead faculty Chief Jake Rhoades and Peter Matthews from Firehouse. Those who fight fires are trained to do their job anywhere – from forests to rural areas to urban high-rises. Firefighters work first and foremost to protect lives, and then they turn their attention to protecting property. Some firefighters choose to work their way up the ladder, so to speak, starting with volunteer work at their local firehouse, coupled with their high school diploma. Those who want to advance up the ranks faster can turn to a fire science degree that will prepare them for responsibilities at the state or federal level. Understanding different types of firefighting careers and what each entails is the first step to choosing the right path. What Does a Firefighter Do?Firefighters show up at the scene of a fire or emergency and rely on advanced tools and equipment to handle the situation. That's a very broad overview; now let's get down to the details. Firefighter Careers Basics Firefighters receive expert training that prepares them to handle a variety of emergency situations. Though fighting fires are what they are best known for (as the name implies), firefighters also handle medical emergencies, rescuing and treating the injured, educating the public and more. Their work often requires them to be on call at all hours; some respond to calls from their private homes, while others stay in the firehouse during their shifts in order to respond to calls much faster, especially in urban areas. Firefighter Careers In-Depth Though the work they do is often very much in the public eye, there is a great deal of behind-the-scenes work as well. This includes maintaining a fleet of emergency vehicles, continuous training and education, filing reports, practicing safe driving techniques, performing preventative fire maintenance and working closely with local, state and federal officials in the event of a suspicious or widespread incident. Firefighters gain more responsibilities as they move up the ranks, starting out as a probationary firefighter. The most dedicated and knowledgeable workers might reach the top level of fire chief. Show MoreFirefighter Salaries & Job GrowthFirefighter Salaries Across the USFirefighter salaries can vary widely across the United States. Some firefighters work in very small departments with limited budgets while others work in urban areas with much higher financial coffers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the 2015 median pay for firefighters was $46,870. This map can help aspiring firefighters determine potential earnings by state. Firefighter Job GrowthThe work of firefighters is absolutely integral to community safety and security. As a result, firefighters are always in demand. Employment of firefighters is expected to grow by 5 percent between 2014 and 2024. The following tools can help firefighters identify states in which they are in great demand. Steps to Becoming a FirefighterWhat does it take to work in a firehouse? There is no universal firefighter career path, but these are the steps aspiring heroes tend to follow. Get the basic requirements Firefighters must have a high school diploma and hold a valid driver's license. Though firefighters must be 18 years old in order to work, limited on-the-job training can begin at a younger age. There may be a limit on age as well, usually between 28 and 30 years old. Applicants must be physically fit and may be required to pass a criminal background check and drug screening as well. Typically, fire departments participate in recruitment fairs when they are looking to hire new recruits. They host screening events where prospective firefighters take written and physical tests. You'll need patience, since the hiring process is usually lengthy. Qualified applicants who pass the first round of tests are interviewed and often go through an additional series of evaluations and testing. To enter a training program, applicants take at least two exams: a written test and a Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) test. The written exam typically consists of around 100 multiple choice questions and covers spatial awareness, reading comprehension, mechanical reasoning, logic, observation and memory. Applicants must also pass a rigorous physical fitness test. They should be able to perform a distance run in an allotted period of time, climb flights of stairs at a rapid pace and lift and carry up to 200 pounds. In some jurisdictions, having an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) license is a requirement for firefighters, who are often called out for emergency medical situations. EMT is often a multi-level process, but requirements vary by state. Though a great deal of training is done at the firehouse to which a firefighter is hired or assigned to work, attending a fire academy offers the opportunity to focus on classroom and hands-on work. Courses tackle topics that might not be covered by firehouse training, such as hazardous materials control or anti-arson techniques. Consider formal education For those who want to go on to careers in fire science, paramedics, or advance to leadership roles within firefighting agencies, there are associate and bachelor's degree programs at colleges, universities and trade schools. If your prospective fire organization requires it, you may need to complete your EMT-Paramedic training and pass those certification exams before applying for work. Some fire organizations host accredited apprenticeship programs that combine classroom training with field internships that can take up to four years to complete. Degrees in forestry with a firefighting/environmental focus are available at the bachelor and master's degree levels. How much initial and ongoing education firefighters need is often determined by their leaders and job paths. For example, some firehouses have weekly required training for all firefighters while others have a full-time probationary period, while still others require a four-year apprenticeship. Keeping up with training is a vitally important part of the job. Note that one must usually complete regular continuing education courses to maintain their EMT licenses. Fire Science Degrees & ConcentrationsAdvertising is a large field, comprised of creative and business professionals who share one main goal: to motivate customers to buy products or services. Whether looking for an accredited online program or a traditional on-campus degree, students have plenty of options for receiving a quality education. For those unsure of which level of degree to pursue in the quest for an advertising career, the table below explains each option. Career Goal or Educational NeedsCertificateAssociateBachelor'sMaster'sOnlineI am already working as a firefighter but I would love to enhance my knowledge. I don't have the time to sit in a classroom – I have long shifts!I am ready to move into firefighting but I recognize that I need a lot of knowledge in order to pass all those tests. Besides, I would love to be able to have a ‘fall back plan' for higher education.I'm determined to make firefighting my lifelong career, and I recognize that in order to do that, I will need a strong educational background. I want to go into management and eventually retire as a fire chief.I am a seasoned firefighter, but I want to do more. I really enjoy homeland security work and I am considering the leap to a federal position--one that would allow me to venture into more exciting professional work.I am pretty sure I want to be a firefighter. I love volunteering at my local firehouse and want to enter the field as soon as possible to see if it's right for me. I need an educational route that will give me a great deal of knowledge fast.Preparing for a Firefighter Career: Fire Science Degrees & SchoolsThough many firefighters start their career with on-the-job training or apprenticeships, formal education can give job candidates and edge, especially in a very competitive area. Here are some of the education options available. Vocational/Trade SchoolThose who are seeking a certificate in fire science, fire protection or a related area, or those who are seeking their emergency medical technician credential can find it at a vocational or trade school. These schools offer certificate programs that combine hands-on work with classroom education; some offer certificates online. MilitaryThose who are trained as firefighters in the military will have the distinct advantage of knowing how to handle a huge variety of firefighting materials, chemicals and tools. Potential employers recognize the advanced training that the military can provide and take that into account during the hiring process. Community CollegeStudents who are interested in an associate degree in fire science or fire technology can find it here. Community college is home to numerous two-year programs and are typically more affordable than four-year colleges. 4-year SchoolsThose who want to earn a bachelor's degree in fire science can look to colleges or universities for the four-year programs they need. These programs focus on fire science as well as related courses, such as management and business, that might help firefighters rise up the management ladder. Master's ProgramsMaster's programs require two and three years of study and are usually--though not always--offered online. This allows students to expand their knowledge while continuing to work the demanding hours required of a full-time firefighter. Types of Fire Science DegreesFire science degrees are available at all levels of higher education. These degrees (and certificates) offer expanded knowledge for those firefighters who are already focused on hands-on training. Depending upon the degree level, students will take courses that focus strictly on a variety of firefighting techniques and required knowledge, or they will take an expanded curriculum that introduces them to management, leadership, and business concepts. Certificate in Fire ScienceCertificate programs for firefighters go by many names, but the most common are fire science or fire technology. The focus is on providing students with the basic knowledge necessary to understand how fire moves and feeds and the tools needed to best combat it in a variety of situations. Most certificate programs take one year or less to complete. Below are several courses that students may expect to find in a typical program. Principles of Fire and Emergency ServicesThis course explores the history of fire services, the various career paths available, laws and regulations, basic fire protections and working with the public in emergency situations. Skills Gained
The Legalities of Fire ProtectionFocuses on the laws that govern firefighting, statues and regulations that govern potential actions, and best practices for legal protections in the course of performing job duties. Skills Gained
Fire Investigation and AnalysisThis course examines how fires act in different environments, how flames spread and react to firefighting actions, and the aftermath of a fire loss. Skills Gained
Fire Code EnforcementA look at the building codes designed to prevent or help fight fires, including detailed information on inspections, insurance implications, and financial issues. Skills Gained
Associate Fire Science Degree or RelatedAn associate degree typically takes two years to complete. Students can choose from two separate tracks: an associate degree program, which includes general education courses and can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree, or an applied associate program, which focuses on the major and gets students into the workforce upon graduation. Either option will offer students a solid overview of the world of firefighting. Here are a few courses students may expect to see in the catalog. Terrorism ManagementFocuses on the potential actions of terrorist groups and the expected and appropriate response from emergency services personnel. Skills Gained
Hazardous Materials AwarenessAn overview of hazardous materials and how to control or contain them using typical firefighting methods. Skills Gained
Vehicle ExtractionThis class teaches students how to handle a situation in which a person is trapped in a vehicle. It includes an overview of tools and proper techniques. Skills Gained
Urban Interface OperationsFocuses on decisions that must be made quickly when dealing with wildfires that threaten urban or populated areas. Skills Gained
Bachelor's Fire Science Degree or RelatedThere are several fire science degrees at the bachelor's level. These degrees are often more specialized, allowing students to focus on one particular aspect of firefighting or emergency services. For instance, there are degrees in fire protection administration, arson and explosion investigation, fire protection and safety engineering technology, and fire service management, among others. Bachelor's degrees take about four years to complete, and includes general education courses as well as targeted fire science courses. The classes below are commonly found in fire science bachelor's programs. Fire and Emergency AdministrationThis course emphasizes the relationship between government agencies and the fire service, explores ethics and leadership, and touches on the administrative points of running a successful firehouse. Skills Gained
Fire Service Human Resource ManagementThis class focuses on hiring and firing decisions, understanding unions, deciding the placement of firefighters and emergency workers during active calls, and laws concerning employment. Skills Gained
Cooperative EducationStudents obtain hands-on training working in the field, either at a controlled fire or accident or through a typical day at a firehouse. They also participate in planned drills. Skills Gained
Fitness and ConditioningThis course targets the physical aspects of firefighting, including physical conditioning segments, agility tests, the use of protective clothing and gear, and developing stamina while in the field. Skills Gained
Master's Fire Science Degree or RelatedA master's degree in fire science is offered by only a handful of schools across the country. It is ideal for those who are already working in the field and want to enhance their hiring or advancement opportunities. Usually taking between two and three years to complete, most master's fire science degrees are offered online so that students can continue their rigorous work schedule with fire services while they pursue higher education. Below are some of the typical classes found in a master's program. Critical Issues in Homeland SecurityThis course focuses on the current issues facing homeland security, new policies and practices, and how those changes are shaped by various influencers. Skills Gained
Fiscal Financial ManagementStudents in this course learn what it takes to manage expenses, budget, complete financial statements and understand the financial environment of the fire service. Skills Gained
Advanced Crisis ManagementThis course looks at setting up a crisis response in the aftermath of a natural disaster, terrorist attack or large-scale accident. Skills Gained
Dispute Resolutions and NegotiationsThis focuses on the various ways to solve labor and personnel conflicts, from those that occur between firefighters to larger issues with unions or legislators. Skills Gained
Fire Science & Firefighter Career SpecializationsWorking as a firefighter isn't the only game in town: There are numerous other professional specialties within the realm of fire science that can lead to fulfilling careers. Some degree programs may offer academic concentrations relevant to one or more of these jobs. Here are a few of those options, along with salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Median salary: $46,870Firefighters respond to fires, handle emergency situations, and protect life and property. The job is definitely exciting, but it also comes with a high element of risk. Constant training and preparation can help mitigate the risks for firefighters and their local communities. Forestry Fire Prevention SpecialistMedian salary: $36,650These highly-trained firefighters work in forested areas inspecting for potential fire hazards, enforcing fire regulations (like appropriate burn permits or ‘burn times') and instituting control measures when it appears a fire is imminent. They keep tabs on weather conditions and report forest fires to the proper departments. Building InspectorMedian salary: $57,340Those with a strong knowledge of building codes and attention to detail might like working as a building inspector. These professionals look at buildings to determine their safety, structural soundness and compliance with a variety of regulations. Their inspections might be general or very specific. Future building inspectors may want to shortlist potential fire safety degree programs with targeted courses in fire and safety codes. Arson InvestigatorMedian salary: $56,730In the event of a suspicious fire, an arson investigator collects evidence, eyewitness accounts and other information to determine what might have caused the fire, and, furthermore, who might have been responsible. These investigators work closely with police departments and other authorities. ParamedicMedian salary: $31,980Becoming an emergency medical technician, or EMT, is a requirement for most firefighters. Those who truly love the work might invest in additional training to become a paramedic. Paramedics respond to emergencies, assess injuries, treat patients at the scene and transport them for further medical care. Components of a Successful Firefighter Career: Skills, Credentials, Tools & TechnologyFirefighters must have certain skills and traits in order to do well in the job. They must also have a strong knowledge of the tools and technology necessary to keep things running smoothly. Skills
Tools & Technologies
CredentialsMost firefighters are required to earn an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification or EMT-Paramedic certification through the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians. Those with bachelor's degrees and higher who want to further their career opportunities can earn the Executive Fire Officer certification. Additional options include Chief Fire Officer, Emergency Response Specialist and Dive Team Member certifications. Related Careers at a Glance24% Median Salary (2015): $31,980 Education/Training Required: Certificate or Training 6% Median Salary (2015): $54,790 Education/Training Required: Some College 4% Median Salary (2015): $60,270 Education/Training Required: High School Diploma 5% Median Salary (2015): $24,680 Education/Training Required: High School Diploma 7% Median Salary (2015): $60,220 Education/Training Required Bachelor's Degree 5% Median Salary (2015): $45,610 Education/Training Required High School Diploma Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics What do Related Occupations Make?Those who become firefighters are interested in serving others. Graduates of fire science programs might also go on to a career as a correctional officer, emergency medical technician, paramedic, police officer, or security guard. Firefighter and Related Job Salaries'\"Subject\";\"10th Percentile\";\"Median Salary\";\"90th Percentile\"\n\"Firefighters\";22030;45250;79150\n\"Fire Inspectors/Investigators\";33920;53990;87400\n\"Paramedics/EMTs\";20180;31020;53550\n\"Correctional Officers\";27000;39040;69610\n\"Police/Cops\";32350;55270;89310' Firefighter Degree and Career ResourcesInternational Association of Fire FightersThis is a labor union representing firefighters throughout the United States and Canada. International Association of Women in Fire and Emergency ServicesWomen are often underrepresented in firehouses and emergency services. This organization works to remedy that. National Fire AcademyA service of the U.S. Fire Administration, the Academy is home to several training programs, including online classes, designed to benefit firefighters across the U.S. National Fire Protection AssociationThis site offers a wealth of information on codes, standards, research, training and more. National Registry of Emergency Medical TechniciansThis organization certifies emergency medical technicians, a requirement for many firefighters. U.S. Fire AdministrationThe USFA website highlights training, continuing education, operations, fire prevention and pertinent data resources for current and potential firefighters. Fire Science Degree Search ToolChoosing a fire science or EMT program can be tough. This search tool lets students review various credentials and programs available in their state so that they can identify those that fit them best. Online Firefighting ProgramsIf your schedule doesn't allow for in-person classes, you can often find what you're looking for online, offering you a flexible option. |
What do u have to do to become a firefighter
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