Become a firefighter in the USA in 4 steps

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Firefighters are a staple job in many communities. They take on tasks such as first aid and CPR, public education, and of course, putting out fires. Do you think you have what it takes to become a firefighter?

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These could vary slightly depending on where you live, but here are some common criteria fire departments look for. If you:

1. Are at least 18 years old

2. Have a driver's license

3. Have CPR/ACLS certification

4. Are able to pass a physical exam

Then you've already completed the first step towards becoming a firefighter!

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To become a firefighter, you'll need either:

• A high school level education

• Or a GED certificate (or equivalent)

Best Colleges mentions that there are fire departments that look to hire those with an associate's or bachelor's degree in fire science.

Training at a fire academy is also a requirement. Academy training typically lasts 3-5 months and includes classroom instruction and training with live fire.

The National Fire Academy also offers their own training program which covers areas like public fire safety and education and disaster preparedness. Check out information for their online courses here.

Depending on where you want to be a firefighter, you could also be required to complete an EMT or paramedic certification.

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A firefighter's job can be very physically demanding. Firefighter candidates are put through physical examinations that can be difficult to manage if you aren't prepared.

The Los Angeles Fire Department suggests that those interested in becoming firefighters prepare themselves well in advance before enrolling in a fire academy and applying for a job at a department.

Want to see how you can build your fitness to be firefighter ready? Check out this plan from Fire Rescue Fitness.

Progressive Body Weight Workout

• 5 burpees

• 10 pull-ups/ Body Rows

• 15 push-ups

• 20 prisoner squats

• 25 biker's crunches (25 each)

• 30 planks (hold 20 seconds)

• Run stairs or sprint 100-200 meters

  • Rest 1 minute and repeat 4 more times (for a total of 5)

  • Record the total time it takes to finish 5 rounds and try to improve for your next workout

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In addition to physical training, there are certain soft skills that are important for firefighters to hone. These soft skills can look like:

• Teamwork/collaboration: Work with your crew and other first responders to save lives. Clear communication and teamwork are vital to the job.

• Written communication: Write reports on incidents that are clear and concise.

• Problem solving: Find solutions to problems while under tight time constraints.

• Emotional intelligence: Manage your own emotions and express yourself properly.

• Decision-making under pressure: Adapt to changing situations and remain calm under pressure.

The International Society of Fire Service Instructors mentions how firefighters who exhibit well-trained soft skills not only improve upon their job as a whole, but also leave civilians feeling well taken care of.

Want to start developing your soft skills? Check out Handshake's list of soft skill examples here.

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Peter is interested in becoming a firefighter. He is 23 years old, has a driver's license, a high school diploma, and a CPR certification. Follow along with Peter as he goes through each step to become a firefighter.

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Peter starts going to the gym to prepare for the fire academy and the physical exam. Increasing his physical fitness will prepare him for the strenuous training and demanding job of a firefighter.

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Peter starts training at a fire academy. He practices putting out real fires and rescuing civilians. He also practices his teamwork skills with other students. It takes him 5 months to complete his academy training.

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After completing his training, Peter applies to his local fire station. Since he meets the requirements and passes the physical exam, he becomes a firefighter!

Becoming a firefighter takes training, hard work, and dedication. If you think you have what it takes, here are a few steps to help you get started.