Becoming a fireman requires passing several examinations, renewing the certifications and retaking those examinations throughout your career as a fireman. Candidates need to be able to pass a medical examination, psychological and written examination with a passing score. The starter qualifications are a high school diploma or GED with a valid driver’s license and be at least 18 years of age.

 

Becoming a fireman is challenging, dangerous and rewarding. As a fireman you are responsible for controlling wild, urban and industrial fires, saving lives and properties from destruction by fire. Firemen are called upon to assist in emergency services with neighboring communities. In some cases, fireman preform fire inspections and have regular public involvement providing safety education to various groups within the community.

 

First action is to obtain an application, complete and submit the information to the authorizing party such as the local or federal government for firefighting. Start as a volunteer fireman and get a chance to gain some hands on experience before you officially enter the firefighting training. The fire training program includes classroom and field sessions and can take up to 6 months to complete. The writing test is required, and may be followed with a virtual testing to verify your comprehension and response ability in fire situations.

 

Background checks are requirements for this career, along with a probation period prior to becoming an assigned fireman with a department or city. Once you are assigned to a unit, your continuing education is mandated to retain industry certifications and required skill sets to perform the job. From time to time there will be physical agility exams, performed in preset training fields, along with drugs testing and ongoing medical and psychological examinations.

 

Course work and training include basic CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) for adults, children and infants, learning the technology and terminology to accurately communicate information and instructions. Hazardous chemicals and materials information, symbols and handling are included along with firefighting techniques, preventions and emergency medical procedures for EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) operations.

 

Most units and stations work on a specific schedule, which may consists of 2-24 hour days with 5 days off. In the case of an emergency, firefighters are called back to work to response as needed. If you are ready to dedicate your life, if you have the courage and stamina to risk your life in the attempt to save another, becoming a fireman is your career.