Here’s a brief list of what Firefighters do:

• Respond to Emergencies: React quickly to fires, medical emergencies, hazardous materials incidents, and other emergencies.

• Extinguish Fires: Use hoses, extinguishers, and other equipment to put out fires and prevent their spread.

• Rescue Operations: Save people and animals from dangerous situations, including extracting them from fires, car accidents, or confined spaces.

• Provide Medical Care: Administer first aid and basic life support, and sometimes advanced medical care, until paramedics or emergency medical personnel arrive.

• Inspect and Maintain Equipment: Regularly check and maintain firefighting equipment, vehicles, and gear to ensure they are in good working order.

• Conduct Fire Prevention: Educate the public about fire safety, conduct fire drills, and inspect buildings for fire hazards.

• Respond to Hazardous Materials: Manage and contain hazardous materials spills or leaks, following safety protocols to protect people and the environment.

Here’s how YOU can become one:

Meet Basic Requirements:

• Age: Typically, you must be at least 18 years old. Some departments have higher age requirements.

• Education: A high school diploma or GED is usually required. Some departments may prefer or require college coursework or a degree.

• Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license is required, and in some cases, a commercial driver’s license (CDL) may be needed.

• Citizenship: Most departments require U.S. citizenship or permanent residency.

2. Pass a Physical Fitness Test:

• Firefighting is physically demanding, so you’ll need to pass a physical fitness test that assesses your strength, endurance, and agility. Prepare for this by engaging in a rigorous fitness training program.

3. Obtain Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certification:

• Many fire departments require or prefer firefighters to have EMT certification. Complete an accredited EMT training program and pass the EMT certification exam. In some areas, Advanced EMT or Paramedic certification might be required.

4. Complete Firefighter Training:

• Enroll in a fire academy or fire science program. Fire academies provide the necessary training in fire suppression, rescue techniques, hazardous materials handling, and emergency medical services. Training includes both classroom instruction and practical exercises.

5. Gain Experience:

• Volunteer or work as a firefighter intern to gain experience. Many departments value hands-on experience, and volunteering can be a good way to get your foot in the door and make connections.

6. Pass Written and Physical Exams:

• Written Exam: Fire departments typically require you to pass a written exam that tests your knowledge of firefighting techniques, safety procedures, and problem-solving skills.

• Physical Exam: A comprehensive physical exam will assess your overall health and fitness for the demanding duties of firefighting.

7. Undergo a Background Check and Drug Screening:

• Fire departments conduct thorough background checks to ensure candidates have a clean record. A drug screening is also usually required.

8. Complete an Interview:

• If you pass the initial screening, you’ll likely face an interview with a panel of firefighters or other officials. Prepare to discuss your qualifications, experience, and reasons for wanting to be a firefighter.

9. Attend Firefighter Recruit Training:

• Once hired, new firefighters typically undergo additional recruit training specific to the department’s protocols, equipment, and procedures.

10. Continue Education and Training:

• Firefighters are required to engage in ongoing training and education to stay current with new techniques, equipment, and regulations. This may include additional certifications, advanced training, and specialized courses.

  This is a very brief and general plan. To know your specific academic path for this career please talk to an advisor at the college or program you plan on attending!