what you need to know before becoming a firefighter

3 Things To Know Before Becoming a Firefighter

• 1. You Have To Meet Basic Requirements Each firefighting organization has its own eligibility standards, but most require applicants that fall within a certain age range and possess a valid driver’s license, good eyesight and a high school diploma or GED. ...
• 2. You Must Pass Exams To Qualify for Training ...
• 3. You Need To Be Flexible With Training

Full Answer

What education and training is required to become a firefighter?

To become a firefighter, you will need to hold at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Once you get your high school diploma, you will need to complete a formal training program. There are different types of programs for firefighter apprentices.

What are the requirements to become a firefighter?

What other requirements might I find for a firefighter recruitment?

• Pre-Service Fire Fighter Education & Training Program Certificate OR
• NFPA 1001 Firefighter Levels I & II from a recognized institution OR
• OFM curriculum components 1,2 and 3 with examination certificate OR
• Minimum of two (2) years experience as a full-time firefighter in a municipal fire department OR

More items...

What are the education requirements for firefighters?

What Education Do I Need to Be a Firefighter?

• High School is a Must. Applicants to firefighter jobs need to be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. ...
• College Makes a Difference. Many applicants to firefighting positions have a postsecondary education in fire science. ...
• Consider Firefighter Training Programs. ...
• Look at the Salary. ...

Should I become a firefighter?

becoming a firefighter is not something you order from the menu as lives depends on firefighters by giving them the trust to their lives, however, if you desire to give all potential and commitment to learn and practise applying what you learnt to save & protect lives along with solid fearless heart, go for it.

What is important to know about becoming a firefighter?

Before acceptance into a fire academy, applicants must pass a Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT), written exam, and skill test. During training, fire academy students must learn how to extinguish fires. They also train to mitigate disasters while preserving life and property and preventing further damage.

Is firefighter easy?

Becoming a firefighter is no easy task. It requires hard work, long hours of training, dedication and a sincere desire to help others. The firefighting career field is very competitive, too. You'll be up against hundreds, possibly thousands of applicants depending on the department.

What qualities do you need to be a firefighter?

The 10 traits all great firefighters haveIntegrity. ... Physical fitness. ... Communication. ... Flexibility and adaptability. ... Dedication. ... Team player. ... Mechanical aptitude. ... Public image-conscious.More items...•

How good of shape do you need to be in to be a firefighter?

Some forms of firefighting may come with additional fitness requirements. For instance, smokejumpers must complete seven pull-ups, 45 sit-ups, 25 push-ups, and a 1.5-mile run in fewer than 11 minutes. If you plan on being out in the field at all, being physically fit is a must.

What kind of math is on firefighter exam?

It consists of fire-related story problems and formulas that call for you to use addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. There are also some problems that call for simple algebra, squares and square roots. 19.

What is the hardest part of being a firefighter?

Firefighters are susceptible to burns, smoke inhalation and crush injuries from collapsing structures. They can suffer from heat exhaustion, as well as long-term job-related illnesses such as asthma, persistent coughing, heart disease, cancer and lung damage.

What are the disadvantages of being a firefighter?

Here are five cons that may accompany a firefighter's job:Constant training. Firefighters undergo extensive and constant training throughout their careers. ... Long shifts. ... Dangerous job. ... Mentally demanding. ... Physically demanding.

What are the pros and cons of being a firefighter?

Pros and Cons of Becoming a FirefighterPro: Sense of Fulfillment in Your Career. ... Con: Unusual Shifts. ... Pro: You Get Paid to Sleep on the Job Sometimes. ... Con: Constant Training and Chores. ... Pro: Public Approval of Your Job. ... Con: Dangerous Job Duties. ... Pro: Good Benefits and Job Security. ... Con: Pay Isn't Great.More items...

Do firefighters get paid well?

As a Trainee Firefighter you'll earn a salary of £27,750 pa including London Weighting. Once fully qualified, your salary will increase to £37,032 p.a. Firefighters also receive great benefits including a pension scheme, childcare support, interest-free loans, training opportunities and a flexible working arrangement.

How tall is the average firefighter?

A movement is now on foot to return to the old standard of height for members of the New York Fire Department. This was five feet, seven inches, and about eleven years ago the standard was raised to five feet seven and a half inches.

How much weight do firefighters carry?

The average weight of basic firefighter gear is around 45 pounds. This includes boots, pants, coat, gloves, hood and mask. However, the weight can vary greatly depending on what extra gear a firefighter decides to carry with them.

How many pushups do firefighters have to do?

Overall, 155 of the 1,104 firefighters were able to break 40 push-ups in a minute, and only 75 couldn't manage 10. The highest amount of firefighters, 389 to be exact, fell somewhere between 21 and 30 push-ups for a minute — slightly short of that ideal threshold.

Is it fun being a firefighter?

Some of the most fun I've ever had in my life has been with my fellow firefighters on shift! Between stirring up trouble and throwing down on some 911 calls both fire and medical the good times are ALMOST nonstop. The thing to remember is the people you work with in the fire service become way more than just coworkers.

Is being a firefighter stressful?

Firefighters are often thought of as heroes, bravely rushing into a dangerous situation to help others without a thought for their own safety. But experts say they often pay a mental and emotional price. Post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, substance abuse and suicide are common problems among firefighters.

How hard is it to get into the fire service?

It's really difficult to become a firefighter. A constant story from many firefighters is that it can take many attempts before you're successful. You need to find out when the fire service you're considering to apply to is likely to have its next recruitment period.

Do firefighters get paid well?

As a Trainee Firefighter you'll earn a salary of £27,750 pa including London Weighting. Once fully qualified, your salary will increase to £37,032 p.a. Firefighters also receive great benefits including a pension scheme, childcare support, interest-free loans, training opportunities and a flexible working arrangement.

Q. What does a Firefighter do?

You can expect to see Firefighter racing to the nearest accident or emergency. Most Firefighters also help rescue animals and people from dangerous...

Q. How long does it take to become a Firefighter?

Even though this is a very dangerous job, it doesn’t take that long to become a Firefighter. Most Fire Academies require only a few months of train...

Q. Is there a demand for Firefighters?

There will always be a demand for Firefighters throughout the country. However, it seems that the demand has slowed down since the existence of fir...

Q. How much does it cost to become a Firefighter?

That depends on how much education you want to receive. Some people earn an Associates are Bachelors degree in fire science, which can cost around...

Q. What is the average salary for a Firefighter?

As a Firefighter, you can expect to make a decent living in the United States. Most Firefighters make around $54,000 a year. However, when you are...

How long does it take to become a firefighter?

Often times, going to Fire Academy is enough to become a Firefighter. This can take several weeks or up to a couple of months to complete. In Fire Academy, you will focus on classroom work as well as hands-on skills.

How old do you have to be to be a firefighter?

In order to work as a Firefighter, you need to have at least a High School diploma and be 18 years old. As competition intensifies, some Firefighters are earning an Associates or Bachelor’s degree in fire science. This can take from 2-4 years, depending on which type of degree you decide to get.

What is the physical ability test for firefighters?

This test will help show how physically capable you are of doing the rigorous activities that a Firefighter must face. Typically, fire stations require aspiring Firefighters to take the Candidate Physical Ability Test. This test is broken up into several parts. First, you will need to climb several flights of stairs.

How much do firefighters make?

Most Firefighters make around $54,000 a year . However, when you are just starting out in the career, you can expect to make less. New Firefighters make around $35,000 a year. It’s possible to make up to $100,000 as a Firefighter with experience and education.

What do firefighters do?

However, Firefighters do much more than just fight fires, they also find and rescue victims, help in emergency situations, treat sick people, help with chemical spills, and teach citizens about fire safety. Some Firefighters can be found teaching classes to youth, new Firefighters, and communities as well.

Why are firefighters important?

Firefighters are an important part of our society; they help keep us safe and are always there when there is an emergency.

What type of person would make a great firefighter?

If you are the type of person who always puts others first, then you may be just the type of person that would make a great Firefighter.

How to find out more about firefighter career?

Take the time to visit your local fire stations, especially those that are a part of the fire department you are applying for . Talking to firefighters is a great way to find out more about the career and specific department as well as any programs they may have such as cadet positions, reserve firefighter or other opportunities.

How do I find out which fire departments are testing?

How do I find out which departments are testing? A great place to start is to sign up for firerecruit.com and be advised of firefighter opportunities across the country. Don't rely on word of mouth or solely on your own efforts. Most departments test very infrequently.

How often do you have to take a test to get a job?

Although some departments test every six months, most departments test every two or three years ; some large metropolitan departments may go as long as six to 10 years between tests. The test you did not hear about and did not apply with may have been the one. Taking tests is the only way to get hired, so knowing whose testing and taking the tests is obviously of utmost importance.

What should a new captain teach you?

They should be teaching you things like fire behavior, building construction, tool and equipment operations and maintenance, etc. How does one gain life experience? By getting out of their comfort zone, exploring a variety of vocations, gaining various job skills and most importantly gaining their independence.

What is the Red Cross looking for in a resume?

The American Red Cross is always looking for volunteers and CPR instructors.

Do fire departments require EMT certification?

The great majority of departments are requiring an EMT certification to apply and more than 90% will require this certification after hire. Since most fire departments run upwards of 70% or more emergency medical-related responses, it only makes sense for them to require this as a prerequisite.

Do you have to work on 911 to become an EMT?

Work experience as an EMT on a 911 ambulance is also extremely beneficial, and is often required for many paramedic programs. If you have decided on this career path, get enrolled in an EMT class and consider paramedic school only if you have a genuine interest in EMS and want to work as a paramedic.

What do you need to know about firefighting?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), you’ll be expected to know or be willing to learn how to: 1 Suppress and extinguish fires with hoses, pumps and additional apparatus. 2 Evacuate fire structures and treat victims 3 Drive and operate emergency vehicles and pump engines 4 Maintain firefighting equipment 5 Participate in public education

How many hours does it take to become a firefighter?

Fire Administration guidelines. The National Fire Protection Association also offers a 110-hour certification course.

What is the psychological exam for firefighter?

A psychological exam will cover personality traits specific to performance as a firefighter. Your oral interview typically covers short-term and lifetime career goals, your vision as a life in firefighting and why you’re choosing that specific agency or department.

What do you need to know about fire suppression?

Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), you’ll be expected to know or be willing to learn how to: Suppress and extinguish fires with hoses, pumps and additional apparatus. Evacuate fire structures and treat victims. Drive and operate emergency vehicles and pump engines. Maintain firefighting equipment.

What is the process of hiring?

Your hiring process will typically include a written examination, oral interview, background investigation, drug screening and physical aptitude/agility exam. You’ll be asked to provide an extensive job history, academic record, credit history, and a list of personal references.

Where do firefighters work?

Remember, firefighters not only work for local departments, they take jobs with wilderness firefighting agencies, state fire organizations, with the construction trades, fire-equipment manufacturers and suppliers.

Do firefighters have to be physically fit?

Firefighters work long hours under stressful conditions. They are typically more physically fit than people in profession s other than law enforcement or athletics. Get in shape. You’ll be required to pass a strenuous physical examination at the time you apply for work as a firefighter.

How old do you have to be to be a firefighter?

For most position you will need to be 21 years of age and have a valued and current driver’s license. you will also need to pass a comprehensive background check and a medical evaluation. There could be education requirements as well as medical training requirements. These are some of the standard requirements. What is important for you as the firefighter candidate is that you read to job posting thoroughly and verify that you meet or exceed all the requirements.

How long is the firefighter academy?

Most departments will send you, the new recruit, to a 12 to 16 week firefighter training academy. This is a knowledge packed and physically demanding process that will hone you into career firefighters ready for your first day on the rig. This Academy will be pass/fail. Being prepared mentally and physically is a must. But I also want to stress that the department that has hired you wants to see you succeed! The days of washing candidates out “just because” are long over. If you work hard and apply 100% effort you will do fine.

What is the physical fitness test for firefighters?

A More common physical fitness test is the Candidate Physical Ability Test, better known as the CPAT test. This physical fitness test consists of 8 stations consisting of firefighter related steps. It is a timed, pass/fail test. Click here to read my post that focuses on the the CPAT testing process.

What to do when you make mistakes in recruiting?

When these mistakes are brought up during the process, don’t lie. Take ownership of your missteps. Disclose to the recruiting board how you’ve changed and how you’ve dealt with change. .

Is it hard to become a firefighter?

Becoming a firefighter is no simple task. It requires difficult work, extended periods of preparation and training, devotion and an earnest craving to help other people.

Do you need a high school diploma to become a firefighter?

At the very least you will be required to have a high school diploma or GED. We are also starting to see Fire Departments requiring high education of a 2-year associate degree. Most however, will give preference points for higher education but not require it.

Is the firefighter test serious?

The firefighter testing process is serious, as well. You’ll be facing hundreds of candidates applying to one department. How might you stand out and where do you begin?

1. You Have To Meet Basic Requirements

Each firefighting organization has its own eligibility standards, but most require applicants that fall within a certain age range and possess a valid driver’s license, good eyesight and a high school diploma or GED.

2. You Must Pass Exams To Qualify for Training

Before beginning a training program, you have to demonstrate that you’re a suitable candidate through written and physical tests. The written exams cover basic skills such as problem-solving, logic, math, reasoning, spatial orientation, oral and written proficiency and recollection.

3. You Need To Be Flexible With Training

Each organization has different training requirements, and many place prospective firefighters in programs at colleges or fire schools.

What do firefighters need to know?

Now, we’ll take a look at some of the other essential qualities that you’ll need once you’re on the job. 1. Always Respect The Public. Firefighting isn’t a hero’s job or a role that allows you to tell others what to do, it’s a job that focuses on service.

How long do you have to work to be a firefighter?

You need to get to work at least 30 minutes before you’re due to go on shift. This gives you time to work out what you will be doing and to get familiar with any equipment that you’re going to be called upon to work with during the day.

What is the Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance?

The Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance is an organization that is working to provide firefighters with the resources they need to manage their mental health and stress. 14.

What does it mean when you are new to the fire department?

When you are new, you want to show up and introduce yourself to everyone that you see. That means a handshake and a straightforward, “Hi, I’m Firefighter YOURNAME. It’s nice to meet you, today,” when meeting other firefighters. This is an important way to begin developing relationships with your peers.

Why do we do fire drills?

It is a way to practice the response of individuals within an organization (and often in other responding organizations too) to ensure that in the event of a fire, the best possible safe outcome occurs.

What does it mean to be a firefighter?

That’s what it really means to be a firefighter, to be part of a strong community that cares for and develops each other to ensure the safety of each other and the safety of the public.

Do firefighters die for their work?

While, it is true that firefighters may occasionally lose their lives in the commission of their duties – they’re not expected to die for their work. The number one priority for you as a firefighter is safety – that is your own safety, your crew’s safety, and the public’s safety.

How long does it take to get into fire school?

No one seems to tell you this when you’re in fire school. Going through the process takes time. It can take anywhere from 2-8 months depending on the city/district you are applying for.

What to ask yourself if you see your social media profiles?

A good question to ask yourself is ‘If I saw my social media profiles, would I hire me?’

Is it stressful to join the fire service?

Going through the process of joining the fire service can be long, stressful and a roller coaster of emotions. There are several questions to ask yourself before jumping into this career. Here’s 5 important tips to remember when working your way through the process.