How to Become a Fireman in London

Firemen are a respected profession in the United Kingdom. You have peoples' lives and property in your hands. It takes about 600 hours of training for just the first level of a fireman's career.To become one of those heroic fireman, then there is a lengthy screening and qualifying process you must go through. Passing the test on the first try is a rarity. You must enter the testing process completely trained and prepared for what you are about to face.

Things You'll Need

• Excellent physical strength and shape
• Quick thinking mind with problem solving abilities
• 4 year degree in Fire Science

Instructions

ow to Become a Fireman in London

1. Obtain a four-year degree in Fire Science or a Paramedic license to get ahead of your competition for a fireman position in the UK. Jobs as a fireman in the UK are very competitive and any advantage in training will show you are serious about the position.

2. Complete the Fire and Rescue Service application if you are at least 18 years or older. The Fire and Rescue Service application will collect essential information on your background and research any criminal background on your record. These forms are for screening purposes and not an actual application to allow you to become a firefighter in the United Kingdom.

3. Be thorough on your application. If you are not careful, more than 90 percent of the applicants wash out in this first step. After you have made it through the application screening, then you can take the psychological test.

4. Be prepared to take the 3-hour psychological test that is in three sections. This sectioned test screens applicants for their ability to work with numbers, their comprehension of information and problem solving abilities. If you pass the psychological test, they will send you off to the physical testing.

5. Take the first of two general medical screening tests. This first medical test will allow you to perform the physical part of the testing process. If you pass this first medical test, you can go onto the six part physical test that will assess your abilities in enclosed spaces, a ladder climb, ladder lifting, fire equipment assembly and carrying equipment.

6. Take the one-on-one interview. This personal interview will consist of questions to judge your character, ability to solve problems and other subjective matters. Pass this test, you will take your second and final medical test.

7. Pass your final medical test that is conducted by a general physician and you will be on your final step to become a fireman in the UK. A hearing test, step test, lung capacity test and physical stamina test will be administered during this physical.

Tips & Warnings

• Before applying, get in top physical shape. Hire a trainer or join a gym to get your body in top physical condition. Give yourself three to six months to get in top physical shape.

• The life of a firefighter is on the line every day. Be prepared to risk your life for others. Discuss this situation with your family so they understand what you will be going through.