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Firefighter Education Requirements & Suggestions

Posted by on October 16th, 2012

As with most employment opportunities, the higher the education level, the better; particularly in regard to salary and promotions. The same can be applied to the career of a firefighter, mainly due to the fact that most departments require certain certifications and credentials, such as the emergency medical technician (EMT), and at the very least a high diploma or GED. On top of that, having a college degree will increase a fire fighter hopeful’s chances of obtaining employment in this career field and can offer more advancement opportunities. In order to keep pace with applicants, or perhaps stay a step ahead, strive to earn a useful fire education by pursuing a bachelor’s degree of any kind, preferably in the field of fire science, public administration, or even a fireman apprenticeship. If you have an associates degree, that can be a great start as well, since many firefighters will have an opportunity to further their education by attending night school, should they have the desire. If you have dreams of becoming the next fire chief, you should plan on attaining at least a bachelor’s degree in one of the areas listed above, preferably a master’s degree.

What You Can Do:

  • Obtain a bachelor’s degree [fire science, fire safety & public administration are relevant]
  • Take at least one fire science college course
  • Take a foreign language class [being bilingual is always a plus]
  • Consider taking a weight training class to build muscles and a solid core
  • Get good grades and learn effective study habits (will come in handy for the fire academy)
  • Participate in group projects and develop good communication skills
  • Memorize the Firefighter’s Prayer (see below)
  • Learn as much as you can about the fire department you are applying for (motto, statistics, history, goals, etc.)
  • Consider pursuing a master’s degree in public administration

The Firefighter’s Prayer

When I am called to duty, God, whenever flames may rage;

Give me strength to save some life, whatever be its age.

Help me embrace a little child before it is too late

Or save an older person from the horror of that fate.

Enable me to be alert and hear the weakest shout,

And quickly and efficiently to put the fire out.

I want to fill my calling and to give the best in me,

To guard my every neighbor and protect his property.

And if, according to my fate, I am to lose my life;

Please bless with your protecting hand

my children and my wife.

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