When it comes to becoming a wildland fighter, you have a lot of steps to consider. This dangerous profession isn't one sought by many, but if you have a passion for the environment and for saving countless lives, it may very well be for you. Here are a few things to think about as you research how to be a wildland firefighter.
Applying for a wildland firefighter position isn't unlike applying for any other job. It pays to be professional and courteous. Don't be afraid to emphasize your skills. While there are some basic requirements you must meet, such as being a certain age and being a high school graduate at minimum, there are plenty of skills you can be absolutely sure to include that will be sure to impress. For example, if you worked for a heavy duty landscaping company that involved trimming trees or majored in forestry, these may very well help in getting you a wildland firefighter position.
Learning how to be a wildland firefighter involves more than just learning about how to put out fires. You also learn the effects wildfires have on the environment, the behavior of wildfires, how weather conditions affect wildfire conditions, and so on. These classes are typically referred to as the S-130 Firefighter Training, the S-190 Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior, and the I-100, Introduction to the Incident Command System.
As you study these courses, it can't hurt to become more familiar with being in the wild. After all, one of the benefits of being a wildland firefighter is its travel opportunities. You may find yourself in any number of settings, and it's unlikely you'll be able to return to a warm bed each night. This means you'll need to learn the basics of map reading, camping, basic first aid, and more. Learning these skills beforehand will help enormously with your training and put you a step ahead of the others.
Finally, once you've completed your training, you will be issued what is referred to as a red card. The red card is more than just a tool to indicate you've completed your education. It also shows which jurisdiction you work under, which can be quite useful.
Once you've completed your wildland firefighter training, you are free to pursue whatever position you like. This can be anyone from sawyers, who cut trees, to a fire engine operator. Keep in mind, however, that the position you pick may mean more courses and training. In the long run, however, it's more than worth it. Learn more about how to be a wildland firefighter today!
Becoming a volunteer firefighter is a common stage in the process of working your way up to a full time professional firefighting position. Whether this is your goal or you simply want to help out your community, learning how to be volunteer firefighters is often a very rewarding career. Here are a few tips to consider.
The first step many volunteer firefighters take is simply applying for the position. When doing this, be sure to research different departments in your area thoroughly to see which one is the best for you. Additionally, learn the different requirements for each department, as age requirements, health requirements, and others vary. The more you know about the department going in, the better your chances will be of making a good impression.
Most requirements for volunteer firefighters are that you must be at least eighteen, you must have a high school diploma or GED, and you must be physically and mentally sound. However, these requirements on their own aren't quite enough to impress most departments. If you want to get your foot in the door, it's extremely advisable to attend college after high school and take courses geared toward your eventual goal. The more you know about your profession, the better your chances will be of getting hired.
Finally, when speaking to the station officer, be sure to dress professionally and bring a cover letter and resume. If he or she is impressed with you, you will be directed toward taking your civil service test and undergoing a minimum of 110 hours of training. For volunteer firefighters, this process helps assess and develop their reflexes, communication skills, math skills, judgment and reasoning skills, and much more. This, however, is hardly an easy endeavor, and many discover that they're not quite up for the task. However, if you can make it through this grueling step, you'll be able to join the ranks of other volunteer firefighters.
Volunteer firefighters are required to undergo additional training along with being on call for a minimum number of hours each month. While they are not paid in the same way that professional firefighters are, they do receive a small stipend for their troubles. Again, the amount varies according to the station. Many volunteer firefighters go on to work as professional firefighters. Whether this is your eventual goal or you would rather simply help your community this way is entirely up to you. Learn more today!
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