Becoming a fireman

[rr2001]

Hello i am an 18 year old mail that recently has joined a local volunteer fire company. It is a very small company without many calls other than rescue calls, but when there has been calls i am always ready to go. I have not yet undergone my firefighting basics, but they do start very soon. So far i have not done anything but wait for my pager to sound, which is not actually a good thing but u probably know what i mean. I was just trying to get some help on whatt i should do to become a real-full time fireman. If any one has any kind of suggestions or commments i would be very happy to hear from you.
Thanks

[firemanred]

YOU NEED TO CONTACT THE STATE OFFICE THAT REGULATES STANDARDS FOR CERTIFICATION AS A FIREFIGHTER. THEY WILL PROVIDE ALL THE INFORMATION YOU NEED. IF BY CHANCE YOU LIVE IN TEXAS, CONTACT THE TEXAS COMMISSION OF FIRE PROTECTION IN AUSTIN. KEEP IN MIND THAT YOU MAY ALSO HAVE TO CERTIFY IN EMS AS A PREREQUISITE FOR FIREFIGHTER CERTIFICATION. HERE IS THE SURE METHOD FOR FINDING OUT, STOP BY A CAREER FIRE DEPARTMENT AND VISIT WITH THOSE GUYS, THEY ARE IN THE KNOW. THEY MAY EVEN HAVE CONTACT INFORMATION AS TO YOUR STATES REGULATING AUTHORITY. JUST ASK. OH AND GOOD LUCK.

[Firebear230]

In addition to talking with career FFs, try getting some of the "Working Fire" videos and other training videos. I would try and do some ride-alongs with a career agency if possible. That might give you a feel for the job. Other then that, I would read and learn during that down time. Before I went to the fire academy, I was a volunteer and the knowledge I gained there helped me greatly in school.
Good luck and stay safe

[truckie_ladderco_147]

Just follow your basics when you start getting trained at your volunteer house.If you want to be full time decide where that will be and get the info you need from the personal office.Every place is different.
Ride alongs are rare in our neck of the woods due to liability plus some full time guys despise vollies.But it never hurts to ask.
Good luck.