How To Become a Firefighter

There is nothing more noble and respectable than saving lives. Check out this video on how to become a

firefighter and see if this profession is for you.

Did you know that some of our Founding Fathers were fire fighters?

Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, Samuel Adams and Thomas Jefferson all served as volunteer firefighters.

Being a firefighter is unlike any other job; you won’t be sitting at your desk and filing reports all day.

In fact, you’ll get to use your training and knowledge to help people in life-threatening situations.

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So, here’s what you need to know about how to become a firefighter.

• In order to apply, the first thing you have to do is finish high school. And if that doesn’t work out, you can also apply with a GED certificate.

• And remember, you must be over 18—and in some states, 21—when you apply.

Health Requirements

• Next up are the health requirements. Now as you would’ve guessed, firefighting requires stamina, agility and the ability to think on your feet. So if you want to become a firefighter, stay fit and healthy!

Bill Glanz, the director for media relations with the International Association of Firefighters, recommends that applicants go

through EMT training to improve their prospects.

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There are two levels of EMT training

• Basic and Paramedic

• Going for a certification may seem like a drag. However, you need to keep your eye on the prize and remember that being a licensed paramedic improves your chances of getting hired as a fire fighter.

The next step will be to prepare for the entrance exam.

• Every department across the country has its own testing standards, so the best thing you can do is to get in touch with your local firefighting department.

Physical Ability Test

Some candidates may also be asked to take the Candidate Physical Ability Test, which is used by over a 1000 departments

in the US. It is designed to test your fitness, strength and agility.

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But wait, that’s not all.

There will also be a thorough background check, a drug test, and an interview.

A Quick Reminder

While these guidelines have been generalized for all fire departments in the US, there may be some variations regarding entry requirements and minimum age limits that you will have

to check up on before you apply.

Being hired by your local firefighting department does not mean that you can start putting out fires right away. Even after getting

hired, you won’t be a firefighter until you complete your department’s testing and training requirements.

You will be required to go through a medical exam and a rigorous training program that may last up

to three to four months.

• Firefighting skills are typically instructed by a state approved fire academy that also helps applicants learn lifesaving skills.

Some fire departments have accredited apprenticeship programs that can last for up to 4 years.

Lastly, being a firefighter isn’t all hard work and no pay.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, firefighters earned an annual median salary of $45,250 in 2012, while the top 10% received more than $79,150 in compensation during the same year. Firefighters also receive generous insurance policies and

retirement packages.

So you think you have what it takes to jump into a burning building and save precious lives?

If yes, then a career as a firefighter may be just what the doctor ordered.

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