Getting Into Firefighting Training Programs

In: Self Improvement

14 Nov 2009

Completing firefighter training really isn’t quite as difficult as getting into the training program in the first place. While it is an admirable position, firefighters are up against some significant competition in the field.

The more relevant education you receive before applying for a firefighter training program the greater your chances are for success. Those with at least a two year degree are more attractive than a high school graduate. If the education is in fire sciences, and a four year degree, your chances go up exponentially. Becoming educated in the health field, such as an EMT certification, can be particularly helpful when applying.

Your physical condition is particularly important to getting into the program. Many otherwise capable and qualified individuals are rejected based on knees and other joints that have had previous surgery. Physical conditioning is necessary to implement before you apply for training. The more you keep your physical abilities in tip top shape the better your chances are of success.

There is a lot of educational training involved, so expect to be sitting in a classroom for most of the 600 hours of training you’ll receive. Before you began the 12 to– week period of time you had to take two written exams compared to the one physical test. You will have to maintain the level of performance that you exhibited in order to get through the training program successfully.

During your training you will have to budget your time carefully. Those who can compartmentalize their time and stick to the time budget tend to do the best throughout the training. The physical tests and training period can be rather difficult the first time around even for those who are in great physical condition.

There is no standard physical training set but most academies do similar drills. Carrying heavy metal 12 foot ladders through the obstacle courses is pretty standard. You will be expected to show that you are strong and fast enough to turn the fire hydrant wrench a quick 17 times to open it up and close it. There is a great deal of speed and strength required for crawling through small and tight spaces in order to reach potential victims.

Fire fighter training is well worth it. The positions that are available offer many advantages, as well as risks. Those who make it through the program look forward to landing the job that they have admired since childhood. You can choose to succumb to the competition or you can choose to rise above it.

Learn how to become a firefighter and the best way to improve your chances of passing the firefighter recruitment process by clicking on the following link: become a firefighter

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