How to Become a Firefighter

Many little boys and girls have dreamed of growing up to be a firefighter. Here's how to make those dreams come true.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Career Books
• Ab Crunch Exerciser
• Career Counseling
• Health Club Memberships
• Online Career Search
• Free Weights Set
• Weight Belts

1. Be at least 18 years old, with a high school diploma or general equivalency diploma (GED).

2. Pass a rigorous test of physical strength and stamina, a medical exam and a drug screening.

3. Find out what real firefighters do. This isn't "Backdraft"; it's alternately dirty, dangerous and dull. If this is still your dream, read on.

4. Keep yourself in top physical condition. The fire-fighting exam is very demanding, as is the work itself.

5. Take basic CPR and whatever other emergency medical procedure training is available to you. A growing percentage of calls to fire departments are in response to medical emergencies.

6. Apply to take the fire-fighting exams. You can get all the necessary information from your state or local fire department.

7. Complete your local fire department's training program. Many municipal fire departments have a two- to four-month program of classroom instruction and practical training covering fire-fighting techniques, fire prevention, hazardous materials and emergency medical procedures.

8. Successfully complete your department's probationary period of employment, which can last from three to six months.

Tips & Warnings

• Some fire departments have formal apprenticeship programs that last up to five years. These can be a great way to earn while you learn.

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[parastorm]

on 9/28/2009 To become a firefighter in North Carolina, a good article to read is http://firenewsonline.com/how-do-you-become-a-firefighter.html This is for anyone, at any age that wants to be a firefighter.

[athenasuich]

on 9/24/2009 1. First, know why you want to become a firefighter.
2. Interview firefighters both women and men.
3. Research what schooling and training is needed.
4. Join a fire academy for training and skills.
5. Map out a plan and time line to reach your goal.
6. Don't listen to failure stories, instead learn from them.
7. Find a mentor or trainer (best to find a firefighter as I did.)
8. Stick it through, stay positive and remember during the tough times what your ultimate goal is and you can get there.

I am an aspiring firefighter. I am also a mother of 4 children. Follow my blog and journey to becoming a firefighter and you can see HOW I am going to become a woman firefighter.

http://fireismydesire.blogspot.com/

You can do it too!
~Athena

[reas12]

on 3/16/2009 r

[chaseatoms]

on 3/3/2009 There is a documentary movie out called "Ricky's Rib Shack, a Firefighter's Journey" It shows, better than any movie I've seen before, what it takes to become a firefighter. It follows a firefighter recruit class in Denver. This is a very intense movie. After watching it you may think twice about your choice. Check it out anyway, it is an eye opener.

[coachgirl]

on 2/23/2009 I'm on the path to becoming a Firefighter, and so far, it seems like it's a good move to go ahead and get a degree in Fire Science or what not to supplement it. Within that degree in my state are the certifications to become a Fire Inspector, Fire Investigator and Fire Officer. James, Chandra's assistant