What do you have to do to become a Fire Fighter
Hi I am in 12 grade and this career has been interesting me for a while.I have no definite plan on what to do after school and I am scared for my future especially because my brain is not set just on this career but I just need some clarification
#firefighter #firefighting
3 answers
Eric’s Answer
There are also various departments that have youth oriented programs, such as firestarters, fire rangers, etc that can give you an early feel for the firefighting field. Most professional fire departments in NE Ohio will require paramedic training, as well as a civil service test, along with a physical agility test and back ground check. You can also volunteer at an area fire department to get a feel to see if this is something you really want to do. You do need to stay out of trouble as well.
Some high schools also offer the Firefighting program as well as the EMT-B. Medina County Career Center has such a program, and i think the Lorain County Joint Vocation School in Oberlin has such a program as well.
Hope that helps
The future will always be scary, because it is unknown. Whatever you chose to do in your life, make sure it is something you will truly enjoy. Ask any firefighter, they either love the job or hate it. It is a job like no other.
Most of the job is EMS oriented nowadays, meaning most of the calls are EMS oriented, sometimes upwards of 80% of the total calls. Once you get into the field, there are opportunites for further education such as Fire Inspector, Fire Officer, Associates of Fire Science, as well as Continuing Education to keep your skills fresh.
Eric recommends the following next steps:
Ryan’s Answer
That said, firefighting is an outstanding career choice. It serves the community in a vital way, and there are many perks - the best of which (in my opinion) is not being stuck behind a desk looking at a computer screen 40+ hours a week (been there, done that, and quit!).
See below for what I would suggest as the next steps to take.
Summary: Look for local fire department youth programs, try to take Firefighting of Medical community college classes, look at becoming a volunteer firefighter, stay fit/healthy/studious/clean, and lastly seek to obtain related skills/certifications/experiences.
Most importantly, enjoy your youth. Adulthood, especially firefighting, can be very stressful at times. I started volunteering at my local fire department at age 16....I don't regret it, but I do sometimes wish I hadn't tried to grow up so fast.
Let me know if you have any more questions!
Ryan recommends the following next steps: