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Volunteer firefighters can obtain level one certification, which indicates they have learned basic firefighter tasks and training. This certification allows the firefighters to work only under the fire chief's direct supervision. While some states, such as Washington, consider this "Module I" certification, or Mod I, other states may refer to the certification as the Basic Volunteer Firefighter with Live Fire registration, or Basic 101. This is to differentiate between the several module courses all firefighters must take for either Firefighter I or Firefighter II certification.
Becoming a firefighter requires extensive hands-on training. Many states require firefighters to obtain certification by completing state-approved formal firefighter training and passing a series of written and practical exams. Firefighters in Illinois obtain certification through the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal. Three different levels of certification are offered.
Firefighters in the state of Texas must obtain certification through the Texas Commission on Fire Protection. Firefighters play an important role in the ongoing protection of people and property throughout the state of Texas and must, therefore, meet basic minimum certification requirements to ensure that the safety is maintained. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 310,400 individuals employed in the U.S. as firefighters in 2008. The number is expected to grow by 57,500 by 2018.
Firefighters are held to specific standards of knowledge, whether they complete their training at a college, community college or fire department-sponsored academy. Coursework is supplied by a handful of agencies. The minimum certifications to become a firefighter include Firefighter I, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or Emergency Medical First Responder, Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT), National Incident Management System (NIMS) and Wildland Firefighter.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has developed training standards for those working in the fire service, and issues certificates for firefighters who pass the training. The Firefighter 1 and Firefighter 2 Certifications use job performance requirements to measure the knowledge and skills needed as a firefighter. The Firefighter 1 Certificate covers basic fire service qualifications, while the Firefighter 2 Certificate involves more specialized areas and command.
Wildland firefighters seeking S700 level certification must first successfully complete both lower- and moderate-level training courses and be affiliated with a sponsoring agency. State and federal forestry divisions control the approval of wildland firefighter personnel.
Firefighters are trained to respond to not only fires, but also several other types of emergencies. Firefighting is complex and dangerous work that requires extensive, ongoing training. Those wishing to become firefighters should complete Firefighter Level I Certification, progressing to Level II Certification and advanced training.
Firefighters are usually your first and only line of defense in the event that a fire occurs. Because of the extreme importance and physical requirements of the job, firefighters need to undergo adequate training and receive certification.
Firefighter certification levels vary by state. Some states simply state a firefighter is voluntary, part time or full time, while others have an in-depth hierarchy. The Bureau of Labor Statistics recognizes seven job titles with different certifications.
To be a firefighter in Maine, you need to be certified and meet the necessary requirements. A candidate must be at least 18 years old to begin the process of certification.
Entry-level firefighters face strenuous requirements in the certification process. Candidates must demonstrate intellectual abilities, physical stamina, agility and a specific professional skill set. Once a candidate becomes a firefighter, he must attain certification, which is available from private institutes accredited by the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress and the National Professional Qualifications Board. Advanced certification in specialized areas according to accepted national standards are available. (Source 4)
The International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) Fighter One certification is better known as Firefighter I certification in the realm of firefighting. The IFSAC is a respected organization that accredits public fire service and higher education degree programs. Achieving Firefighter I certification through an IFSAC accredited training facility may be required in some states for employment, but if not, attending an accredited schools lends credibility to graduates seeking firefighting positions.
Department of Defense (DOD) firefighter certification is required for most firefighters wishing to work as such on a military base or installation. In fact, almost all DOD civilian firefighters have attended a variety of DOD firefighter training courses to be able to obtain their positions. Some DOD firefighters have also come to their jobs from civilian fire departments or training schools. Their training will be evaluated before certification.
The North Carolina state legislature ordered the Fire and Rescue commission to design a firefighter certification program that establishes the minimum standards of training and preparation. Anyone seeking to become a firefighter in the state can undergo this program for official certification. The commission notes however, that many fire departments often have requirements exceeding these standards, and firefighters might require additional education and/or training for their place of employment.
Minnesota Firefighter I (FFI) certification is the first level of firefighter qualification. No prior certification is required. Candidates must prepare themselves to meet various criteria that are listed in National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards, including competency in handling hazardous materials.
The state of California requires all firefighters to have state certification before volunteering or working in the field. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection establishes the guidelines for California firefighter certification
Firefighting is a strenuous job with irregular hours and sometimes dangerous conditions. Written, physical and medical exams are required before you can become a firefighter. Most firefighters must have at least a high school diploma and, in some cases, a two- or four-year degree. Firefighter certification varies from state to state. Full-time firefighters in Georgia must be certified, and volunteer firefighters can choose to get certification.
