- The majority of city municipal and rural fire departments require that applicants are at least 18 years of age, have completed high school and have a diploma or its equivalency. On the job training in other related fields or life experience may be considered in lieu of a diploma. Restrictions vary from state to state and from rural volunteer fire departments to major municipalities.
- Although a high school diploma is normally a minimum requirement, many fire departments give preference to candidates that have additional education. Community colleges, universities and technical schools offer courses in fire engineering or fire science. The fire science curriculum teaches fire safety, fire command, administration, investigation and inspection, the safe handling of hazardous materials and fire hydraulics. The main focus of these classes is firefighter safety and public service. An associates degree or technical school certification in any field relating to fire suppression greatly improves a candidates chances of being hired by a major municipal fire department.
- Strength training is an important part of a firefighter's fitness routine.Workout image by Nikolay Okhitin from Fotolia.com
Firefighting is difficult, dangerous work that requires a high level of physical fitness. Candidates that are at an ideal weight for their height and age, are physically fit and able to lift and carry heavy loads are the best suited for the position. Firefighters are exposed to smoke, noxious chemical fumes and pollution. Persons that suffer from severe allergies, asthma or other breathing complications are discouraged from entering this breath challenging field. Candidates are subjected to rigorous physical fitness testing. Tests include the ability to lift up to 80 lbs., push up to 125 lbs. and pull up to 135 lbs. - Firefighters are often required to make instantaneous, life saving decisions. They are team players that must rely on others in very dangerous situations. Candidates that exhibit leadership, team spirit and cooperative interaction with others receive preferential treatment during the hiring process. Candidates with prior military service are well suited for work as a firefighter.
- Candidates that have been involved with drug or alcohol abuse need not apply for a firefighting position. Drug testing is required on a regular or random basis.
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