Firefighting is an important and admirable career. However, there are certain things you need to do or have to be successful in this field. Here are four things you should know about becoming a firefighter.
1. Make Sure You Meet Requirements
There are several requirements you must meet to become a firefighter, including physical and mental fitness, having a government-issued ID and minimum age and education level requirements. Some of these requirements are the same across the board, while others may be different depending on your jurisdiction. For example, you should look up how do I become a firefighter in Texas if that’s where you live.
2. Get Fit
One of the most essential prerequisites for becoming a firefighter is physical fitness. Firefighting is an incredibly physically taxing career, so you need to be able to handle situations requiring strength and flexibility. You can take physical fitness classes and utilize workout routines designed to prepare firefighters. You should also work on maintaining and improving your mental health and workplace communication skills. Mindfulness and familiarity with communication are also vital components of a firefighter’s job.
3. Seek Education And Training
While the majority of jurisdictions require a high school diploma or GED at a minimum, many will also require or prefer applicants to have additional schooling or training. Depending on your interests and jurisdiction, there are many options available to you. You could complete an associate or bachelor’s degree or certificate in fire science, start as a volunteer firefighter or enter the military or a trade or vocational school. If you choose to get a degree, there are also options to earn master’s degrees in fire science at some schools.
4. Become an EMT
Because firefighters are classed as first responders, they need to have Emergency Medical Technician training in addition to their training to fight fires. Some jurisdictions may not require you to become an EMT, but most will. Even if your’s doesn’t, it’s still a good idea to get this type of training due to its usefulness. However, you won’t necessarily need to get certified as an EMT before applying for firefighting jobs. You can often enter an EMT training program while you’re volunteering as a firefighter or during your candidacy or onboarding period.
There are many stages of preparation and many kinds of work you need to do if you want to become a firefighter. If this is a strong goal of yours, don’t get discouraged. Continuing to work and prepare will help you achieve this goal.