So You Want To Become A Firefighter

If you’re thinking about becoming a firefighter, you probably already have the most important trait a firefighter needs to have – the desire to help people. Because, let’s face it, you won’t get rich by being a firefighter, so there are no reasons to become one if your primary motivation is material gain. But aside from that, a firefighting career will be rewarding in all the ways that really matter – you’ll have the respect of the community you serve, you’ll be doing a job that where you get to save people’s lives, and you’ll forge the kind of friendships which can only be forged by being in peril together with your fellow firefighters.

Still, finding a job as a firefighter might prove to be a bit difficult. The latest predictions from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics say that, between the years of 2012 and 2022, the number of jobs in the profession will rise only by 7%, which is below the average job rise of 11%. What that means is that, in the 10 years covered by the forecast, only 20,300 new firefighting jobs will be opened. So, you know the competition will be stiff, and you’ll need to find a way to be ahead of it. And we can help with that.

The first thing you need to do is start working out, if you don’t do it already. If you want to be a firefighter, you’ll need to be fit, as the job requires physical strength and endurance. Now, you can do it in many different ways, but you need to have a well-rounded exercise regimen. It will increase your cardiovascular health, which is very important for a firefighter, and it will allow you to tackle any task that may come your way. One thing you should consider is calisthenics, as it will help you develop both strength and endurance, while making your more agile and improving your balance.

Once you’re reasonably fit, you should look for opportunities to volunteer at a fire department. It doesn’t really matter what kind of work you do there, as long as you open your eyes and ears and soak in all the knowledge about the job you can. Plus, you’ll get to meet some people that might help you on your way, and you’ll always have an experienced firefighter around to ask for advice, which can prove to be invaluable.

But, you must also think about your education, as it might help you stand out among other candidates for the job. Now, you’ll probably hear that hear that it’s a good idea to have at least a certification in CPR, and it is, but you should really try to make an extra effort and go for EMT training. There are four levels of EMTs, and even the most basic level, the EMT-B, might give you headway in the job race. Apart from that, you should look for some colleges that offer fire technology programs. Of course, getting a degree takes time, and ideally you’ll be able to combine it with your volunteer work to minimize time loss. Even if you don’t, and you end up applying for the job before you get your degree, make sure you stick with your studies while you work, as they will help you climb the ranks.

Other than that, you need to be on the constant lookout for job openings. To become a firefighter, you’ll need to pass both physical and mental tests that are designed to show whether you have what it takes, or not. Of course, the tests themselves, as well as the marks you need to have to be considered for the job, depend on the department or company you’re applying for. But if you did the things outlined in the article, you’ll be more likely to make the cut and realize your goals.