How to Become a Fireman in Colorado

Volunteering as a fireman will help prepare you for a career as a firefighter.

To work as a Colorado fireman, you must be physically fit, work well under pressure and have the ability to think quickly on your feet. Before applying to become a fireman, volunteer at a local firehouse. The volunteer work will help you learn the ins and outs of fire safety and also help you determine if you have the personality and physical stamina required for such a grueling and dangerous job. While not all fire departments require applicants to be EMT-certified or attend a fire safety academy, having those certifications and educational background will greatly increase your chances of being hired.

Instructions

1. Meet the basic Colorado fireman requirements. Those requirements include a high school diploma or GED, a valid Colorado driver's license, a current CPR certification, and you must be a minimum of 18 years old when you submit your application.

2. Inquire with the fire department you wish to work for about additional educational requirements. Many Colorado fire departments require their firefighters to be certified as an EMT and attend one of the firefighter academies that are available throughout the state. Firefighter academies and EMT courses can be taken at many community or technical colleges.

3. Submit an application and pay all fees. Once your application is accepted, you will be given your first testing date. Your written test will include basic knowledge questions (math, reading writing) as well as map reading and problem solving.

4. Pass the physical exam. The physical exam will vary by fire department, however, according to the Colorado State's Fire Chief's Association website, the Candidate Physical Ability Test is the norm. Some aspects of the physical exam will include routine occurrences found in firefighting.

5. Pass the first oral interview. The oral interview is used to assess the applicant's problem solving skills and ability to think on their feet.

6. Compete the final interview. After your application is assessed, and the written, oral and physical exam is completed, you will be ranked against other applicants. Depending on where you rank, you may be invited back for a final interview. The point of this interview is to asses your personality, work ethic and moral character.

References

• Colorado State Fire Chiefs' Association: Becoming a Firefighter
• Colorado State Fire Chiefs' Association: Candidate Physical Ability Test Orientation Guide
• Fire Link: Colorado Fire Academies