What are the Firefighter Job Requirements in Taylor, Michigan?

It takes months of training to join the Taylor, Michigan fire department.

The fire department in Taylor, Michigan is the second largest in suburban southeast Michigan, according to Fire Chief Stephen Portis. Second only to Dearborn's team, the Taylor fire department works with about half the manpower of the larger department. This means that not only are the Taylor firefighters extremely hard-working, but they have to be trained in all the latest technology and methods in order to work effectively. The days of joining a rig as a volunteer to get experience are gone. Today's Taylor firefighter must pass a battery of professional classes in order to get hired into the department.

Past Practices

In the 1970s and earlier, Taylor firefighters were just that. They fought fires and responded to fire emergencies. Other situations like medical emergencies and hazardous waste spills were handled by private companies. Today's Taylor firefighters are trained in multiple disciplines, from hazardous material disposal to medical emergency response. Fire crews are capable of handling any emergency that may arise in the city without calling in outside specialists.

Medical Training

Before applying for a position in the Taylor, Michigan fire department, candidates must successfully pass a paramedic training course. Paramedic students must have a high school degree before joining the program, and generally attend full time. Paramedic programs run from one to two years, and cover advanced medical skills through coursework and fieldwork. Paramedic training is commonly held at community colleges or technical schools, and students must pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians exam to be certified as a paramedic after graduating.

Firefighter Training

Potential firefighters in the Taylor fire department must pass Firefighter 1 and Firefighter 2 training classes after being hired. These classes are supervised by the Michigan Office of Fire Fighter Training, and are standardized courses held throughout the state. Candidates who successfully pass both Firefighter 1 and 2 classes are eligible to continue working at the Taylor fire department.

Continuing Education

Like their colleagues in any other fire department, Taylor firefighters must remain physically capable of doing the job required of them. Members of the team join continuing education classes in diverse subjects such as hazardous materials management and further paramedic training.

References

• Chief Stephen Portis, Taylor Fire Department, Taylor, MI
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics
• Department of Labor, Energy and Economic Growth: Office of Firefighter Training