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How
to Become a Firefighter
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For those of you who would
like to pursue your childhood dream of fighting fire, saving lives,
and providing one of the most heroic forms of public service, here
are a few tips on how to get started.
First of all you may want to look into volunteer
positions in your local fire department. They can provide you with
vital "hands on" experience that will be an excellent stepping stone
into your fire service career.
Second get some sort of fire science education.
A degree is imperative in today's competitive market for fire fighters.
The more educated you are in any job the more likely you are to succeed,
especially in the fire service.
Third, get some sort of medical certification, whether it be first
responder, EMT, or paramedic. Medical training is essential to the
fire service. Medical calls outnumber fire calls nearly 10 to 1. EMT
is the most common form of medical training acquired because it is
more advanced than the first responder, yet it is cheaper and easier
to acquire than the paramedic title.
Fourth, take the civil service exam, over and over until you are happy
with your score. Don't stop until you receive the highest marks possible.
Reach for perfection.
Fifth, apply to many districts and departments. Don't expect to get
the first position you apply for, and don't get discouraged if you
don't get hired right away. Be willing to relocate. Your job is out
there somewhere, you just have to find it. Check in with FireDistrict.com's
job, career, and employment opportunities
frequently.
Once you have been employed, keep in mind you will always need to
train and learn, as the fire service is forever changing, and improving.
Stay positive, and be a team player. The fire service is very time
consuming, but the benefits are well worth it.
Good Luck in your quest to join our family, and if you have any questions
or would like to offer your own suggestions, please email me at jw@firedistrict.com
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