How to Become a Firefighter

The Maltese Cross is one of the most recognizable symbols of fire departments across the United States. It originated from the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem's insignia. The Knights were steadily assaulted with what was called "Greek Fire," a mixture of naptha and other highly flammable chemicals that would spontaneously ignite upon impact, as they battled with the Saracens. Water was useless against the flames, and many of the Knights of St. John died.

The Knights' emblem lives on, however, and represents the characteristics of all good firefighters: loyalty, perseverance, dexterity, explicitness, observation, sympathy, gallantry, and tact. Of course today, while these traits may help you become the best firefighter you can be, you will also need to have experience, a good background, and education as you prepare for the career of your dreams.

Hands On Experience

Getting your foot in the door at a volunteer department can help you network and learn the basics of firefighting. You will get intensive hands-on experience and training while you meet others in the service and meet men and women who can mentor you throughout the process. Although some may underestimate volunteer firefighters, or "vollies," the vast majority of fire departments in the United States today are volunteer departments, and they are often as highly trained as any paid department.

Do Your Homework

You will also need to spend some time preparing for your background investigation and interviews. While at first glance this may seem to be the final step in the process of becoming a firefighter, it can also be one of the most time consuming. It should be started early in the process to ensure you have all your bases covered. If your background has a few legal stains, you can begin doing damage control by taking anger management classes, volunteering, or paying off outstanding debts in order to clean it up. You should also start gathering information regarding your full job history, education, driving record, and personal references.

Educational Requirements

Becoming a firefighter also requires specific classes and training, much of which can be found at your local community college. Most paid fire departments require firefighters to have a minimum of an EMT-B or a paramedic license. Firefighter II and III are required courses. Hazardous Materials and First Responders courses are beneficial, for some departments, may be required as well. An Associates in Fire Science can make the entire process go more smoothly.

The Maltese Cross represents the characteristics of all good firefighters

by Andrea Asa, Toys & Games writer