How Do I Become a Firefighter?
Firefighters usually require:
- completion of Grade 12
- completion of one or two years of post-secondary education, on-the-job training in a similar first responder role or equivalent
- successful completion of an approved firefighter training program
- completion of the National Fire Protection Association 1001 Level 1 and 2 Certification
- valid Class 3, 4 or 5 Driver’s License
- CPR Level "C" and Occupational First Aid Level 3 or First Responder Level 3
- assessments of vision, hearing and physical fitness
- criminal record check
Volunteer fire departments usually provide training, which can lead to basic professional qualifications.
Becoming a fire fighter is a competitive process. You apply to individual cities or municipalities as a potential candidate, and are assessed as part of a recruitment selection process.
Selection criteria differs slightly in each municipality. In general the recruitment process looks at the following: post-secondary education, a standard of safe driving history, emergency medical training, vision and hearing tests, criminal history check, and general physical fitness. Demonstration of ongoing community involvement and cultural diversity experiences are also important.
While not mandatory, many departments prefer applicants with additional qualifications including previous experience in emergency services, and other practical transferable to areas of firefighting.