2 answers
Alyssa
Student
Huxley, Iowa
1
Question
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What do you take in high school to be a firefighter?
What do you take in high to be a firefighter?
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2 answers
Luke Trimberger
Student
147
Answers
Champaign, Illinois
Updated
Luke’s Answer
While there are no specific classes required in high school to become a firefighter, there are some courses that can be very helpful in preparing you for the demands of the job and potentially give you an edge during the application process. Here are some subjects to focus on:
English: Strong communication skills are essential for firefighters. You'll need to write reports, document incidents, and clearly explain procedures to colleagues and the public.
Math: Math skills are used in various aspects of firefighting, such as calculating water flow, applying ladder angles, and understanding hazard zones.
Science: A strong understanding of science, especially physics and chemistry, is beneficial. Firefighters deal with fire behavior, hazardous materials, and the science behind extinguishing flames.
Physical Education (PE): Firefighting is a physically demanding job. PE classes will help you build strength, endurance, and overall fitness, which will prepare you for the physical challenges of firefighting.
Here are some additional elective courses that can be helpful:
Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the human body is important for firefighters who may need to administer first aid or CPR in emergency situations.
Auto Shop or Mechanics: Familiarity with mechanical systems can be beneficial, as firefighters may use tools and equipment to force entry into buildings or operate fire trucks.
Construction Trades: Knowledge of construction can help firefighters understand building layouts and potential hazards during fire situations.
Beyond Coursework:
Physical Fitness: Focus on building your overall physical fitness outside of PE classes. This could include running, weightlifting, swimming, or other activities that will improve your strength, stamina, and cardiovascular health.
Volunteer Work: Consider volunteering at your local fire department. This is a great way to gain firsthand experience, learn about the profession, and make connections with firefighters.
Lifeguarding or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certification: While not mandatory, these certifications can demonstrate your commitment to emergency services and provide valuable skills applicable to firefighting.
Remember, the fire service often looks for well-rounded individuals with a strong work ethic, dedication to helping others, and the ability to work effectively as part of a team. While academics are important, focusing on these qualities will also make you a strong candidate for a firefighting career.
English: Strong communication skills are essential for firefighters. You'll need to write reports, document incidents, and clearly explain procedures to colleagues and the public.
Math: Math skills are used in various aspects of firefighting, such as calculating water flow, applying ladder angles, and understanding hazard zones.
Science: A strong understanding of science, especially physics and chemistry, is beneficial. Firefighters deal with fire behavior, hazardous materials, and the science behind extinguishing flames.
Physical Education (PE): Firefighting is a physically demanding job. PE classes will help you build strength, endurance, and overall fitness, which will prepare you for the physical challenges of firefighting.
Here are some additional elective courses that can be helpful:
Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the human body is important for firefighters who may need to administer first aid or CPR in emergency situations.
Auto Shop or Mechanics: Familiarity with mechanical systems can be beneficial, as firefighters may use tools and equipment to force entry into buildings or operate fire trucks.
Construction Trades: Knowledge of construction can help firefighters understand building layouts and potential hazards during fire situations.
Beyond Coursework:
Physical Fitness: Focus on building your overall physical fitness outside of PE classes. This could include running, weightlifting, swimming, or other activities that will improve your strength, stamina, and cardiovascular health.
Volunteer Work: Consider volunteering at your local fire department. This is a great way to gain firsthand experience, learn about the profession, and make connections with firefighters.
Lifeguarding or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certification: While not mandatory, these certifications can demonstrate your commitment to emergency services and provide valuable skills applicable to firefighting.
Remember, the fire service often looks for well-rounded individuals with a strong work ethic, dedication to helping others, and the ability to work effectively as part of a team. While academics are important, focusing on these qualities will also make you a strong candidate for a firefighting career.
Thank you so much, Luke!
Alyssa
Brian Martin Gomez, M.S.
Management Consultant (Federal Government)
9
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Brian’s Answer
Luke gave a very comprehensive answer to the specific skills that make up the firefighter profile. I want to compliment this by sharing some of less-thought-of skills.
We have to remember that firefighters, in addition to the work they do in the field, are supported by an entire organization! Administrators, IT people, HR people, process engineers, mechanics, etc.
I would say that you should polish skills outside the fighting of fire! Learn to be good with people, as a listener/counselor and as a manager/leader. Get good with organization -- learn how to improve processes, how to build and stick to a calendar. And, of course, become very conversant in the processes that surround firefighting work (e.g. HR, administration, data management, scheduling, engineering).
The specific manifestation of those skills in firefighting are best talked through with someone in the industry. So, reach out! Do some informational interviews and go from there.
We have to remember that firefighters, in addition to the work they do in the field, are supported by an entire organization! Administrators, IT people, HR people, process engineers, mechanics, etc.
I would say that you should polish skills outside the fighting of fire! Learn to be good with people, as a listener/counselor and as a manager/leader. Get good with organization -- learn how to improve processes, how to build and stick to a calendar. And, of course, become very conversant in the processes that surround firefighting work (e.g. HR, administration, data management, scheduling, engineering).
The specific manifestation of those skills in firefighting are best talked through with someone in the industry. So, reach out! Do some informational interviews and go from there.