Main steps to becoming a firefighter? And, Qualifications?

Question

Main steps to becoming a firefighter? And, Qualifications?

Answer 1

You must be physically fit, no criminal background

Answer 2

This depends on what state you live in.  Some states want firefighters to be certified in the classes entitled "Firefighter 1 and 2".  Other states will allow fire departments to hire and train their firefighters from scratch.  Fighting fire is a noble profession.  If you are considering the job, you will need to be quite the humanitarian.  Good luck!

Answer 3

Without knowing the state you are in, the best advice I can give you is to call your local deparment and ask.

If it's a volunteer department they may be willing to take you on as a probationary member and train you on their own.

The certifications here in Michigan for a volunteer firefighter is Firefighter one and two certification, Hazmat Awarness, and at least a Medical First Responder certification.

To be a full timer, most deparments require a Paramedic license instead of an MFR license.

Also- competition for jobs is high, and any additional training you can get will be incredibly beneficial in helping you get hired.

Some additional training you can get:

Hazmat- ops, tech, spec.

Tactical medic certification

Other specialized medic training

Fire officer, fire inspector, fire instructor

Rescue diver

Confined space/rope rescue

Incident command (ICS 100, 200, 300, 400, 700/NIMS

Give you a good idea?

Bascially, if you see a class that has anything to do with rescue, fire or EMS- take it. It'll help you a ton.

Good luck.