Photo by Matt C on UnsplashFirefighters are a staple job in many communities. They take on tasks such as first aid and CPR, public education, and of course, putting out fires. Do you think you have what it takes to become a firefighter?
Step 1: Basic Requirements
Photo by Aidan Bartos on UnsplashThese could vary slightly depending on where you live, but here are some common criteria fire departments look for. If you:
Are at least 18 years old
Have a driver's license
Are able to pass a physical exam
Then you've already completed the first step towards becoming a firefighter!
Step 2: Education
Photo by Bernd 📷 Dittrich on UnsplashTo become a firefighter, you'll need either:
A high school level education
Or a GED certificate (or equivalent)
Best Colleges mentions that there are fire departments that look to hire those with an associate's or bachelor's degree in fire science.
Training at a fire academy is also a requirement. Academy training typically lasts 3-5 months and includes classroom instruction and training with live fire.
The National Fire Academy also offers their own training program which covers areas like public fire safety and education and disaster preparedness. Check out information for their online courses here.
Depending on where you want to be a firefighter, you could also be required to complete an EMT or paramedic certification.
Quiz
Which of the following are required to be considered for a role as a firefighter? Select all that apply:
Step 3: Physical Fitness
Photo by Gabin Vallet on UnsplashA firefighter's job can be very physically demanding. Firefighter candidates are put through physical examinations that can be difficult to manage if you aren't prepared.
The Los Angeles Fire Department suggests that those interested in becoming firefighters prepare themselves well in advance before enrolling in a fire academy and applying for a job at a department.
Want to see how you can build your fitness to be firefighter ready? Check out this plan from Fire Rescue Fitness.
Progressive Body Weight Workout
5 burpees
10 pull-ups/ Body Rows
15 push-ups
20 prisoner squats
25 biker's crunches (25 each)
30 planks (hold 20 seconds)
Run stairs or sprint 100-200 meters
Rest 1 minute and repeat 4 more times (for a total of 5)
Record the total time it takes to finish 5 rounds and try to improve for your next workout
Step 4: Soft Skills
Photo by Michael Jeffrey on UnsplashIn addition to physical training, there are certain soft skills that are important for firefighters to hone. These soft skills can look like:
Teamwork/collaboration: Work with your crew and other first responders to save lives. Clear communication and teamwork are vital to the job.
Written communication: Write reports on incidents that are clear and concise.
Problem solving: Find solutions to problems while under tight time constraints.
Emotional intelligence: Manage your own emotions and express yourself properly.
Decision-making under pressure: Adapt to changing situations and remain calm under pressure.
The International Society of Fire Service Instructors mentions how firefighters who exhibit well-trained soft skills not only improve upon their job as a whole, but also leave civilians feeling well taken care of.
Want to start developing your soft skills? Check out Handshake's list of soft skill examples here.
Scenario
Photo by Irene Strong on UnsplashPeter is interested in becoming a firefighter. He is 23 years old, has a driver's license, a high school diploma, and a CPR certification. Follow along with Peter as he goes through each step to become a firefighter.
Photo by Victor Freitas on UnsplashPeter starts going to the gym to prepare for the fire academy and the physical exam. Increasing his physical fitness will prepare him for the strenuous training and demanding job of a firefighter.
Photo by Natalia Marcelewicz on UnsplashPeter starts training at a fire academy. He practices putting out real fires and rescuing civilians. He also practices his teamwork skills with other students. It takes him 5 months to complete his academy training.
Photo by Andrew Gaines on UnsplashAfter completing his training, Peter applies to his local fire station. Since he meets the requirements and passes the physical exam, he becomes a firefighter!
Take Action
Becoming a firefighter takes training, hard work, and dedication. If you think you have what it takes, here are a few steps to help you get started.
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