Recently decided to become a Firefighter....where do I start?

[prspctvftr3]

Just recently I have decided to become a Firefighter, and I am nt quite sure where to start...I have already started attending a junior college in my area a few years back, taking a few semesters off here and there while I worked, and I was curious as to where to go from here. I have just recently applied to a Fire Academy as well, but I am not sure if this is the route to go. Is there a cheaper way? This Academy is expensive. I would greatly appreciate any response that can help guide me. Thank you in advance for any reply!

If you would rather send me an email, my address is cicero33333@yahoo.com

Thanks again

[Craig210]

Well, alot depends on where you are from. More information might be needed to point you in the right direction.

[ff4christjd]

I agrre that more info is needed... but one thing i might recommend is that you take an emt-b class, that is offered thruogh your local community college and see if being an emt is something that you're ok with because most of our calls in the fire service are approximately 78%....
I think you chose an awesome profession.

[ff4christjd]

I agree that more info is needed... but one thing i might recommend is that you take an emt-b class, that is offered through your local community college and see if being an emt is something that you're ok with because most of our calls in the fire service are approximately 78% medical calls
I think you chose an awesome profession.

[prspctvftr3]

thank all of you for your input...are any of you from Illinois so that I may recieve more specific info? thanks again, Adam

[S8ER95Z]

I am (albany) but I am just joining.. so I need info too. :)

[joelshakmn]

I would start by joining your volunteer department.

[mikiestation72]

I would start by joining your volunteer department.
__________
Good idea, thats what i did .. they will put you thru all the training you need.

[chrism8922]

First off, congratulations on choosing an incredible profession!

I'm not familiar with the programs available in your part of the country, but where I live (Southern California), there are a number of Community Colleges that offer Fire Academies with about 10 classes as prerequisites. Those Fire Tech classes are a good place to start. You can also take a 1 semester EMT class, which gives you the option to start obtaining EMS experience on an ambulance if you choose.

The Fire Academy, in my opinion, is the single best starting point to begin your lifelong education as a Firefighter. From there, a good option would be to continue taking college classes as you build EMT experience, which will then allow you to attend Paramedic School - also costly and a giant commitment, but well worth it so you can stack up against the competition (and there's a lot of it!).

There is a huge list of qualities that departments will look for in a new recruit, so keep your eyes and ears open, learn the culture of the Fire Service, have a good attitude and thick skin, and start checking off the boxes. Don't forget to keep physical fitness as a priority.

Make a plan, and stick to it. Learn how to take a FD oral interview, which is your time to shine for the decision makers. Look for "The Aspiring Firefighter's 2 Year Plan" and "How to Smoke Your Oral Interview" by Paul Lepore. Also, subscribe to firecareers.com, and check out those discussions.

I'm sure others will pitch in, but some other things that will make you a better candidate than the next individual are:

Bachelor's Degree
Experience with power and hand tools
Good credit/background
A history of good decisions in your personal life


Good luck!


Chris