What Does a Firefighter Do?

First, you’ll need a high school diploma or equivalent. While in school, make sure you are taking courses in math and problem-solving. You can get a head start by taking a local CPR class and volunteering to help out around the local fire station. 

Next, you’ll need to start more in-depth medical training by earning emergency medical technician (EMT) certification. 

Next, focus on fire training. Most prospective firefighters get the bulk of their initial training at a fire academy. Training includes learning firefighting and fire-prevention techniques, local building codes, use of firefighting tools and emergency medical tactics. 

Fire academy is also when you can begin to specialize. When a firefighting team reaches the scene of a fire, each member is in charge of a specific task. For example, a hose operator connects the hose to the hydrant and sprays the hose toward the flames. A tiller maneuvers the aerial ladder into place. 

Another stop on your journey could be earning a certificate or associate degree in fire science. Programs cover fire behavior, firefighting and prevention, fire management, evacuation techniques and fire investigation. This step is in addition to fire academy but it may set you up for leadership roles in the future. 

If you want to become a wildland firefighter, you’ll need to complete an apprenticeship, which can last from 12 to 48 months. 

No matter your path, you’ll need pass tests to prove physical stamina as well as written tests and interviews. Once accepted, you’ll go through a probationary period that typically lasts a year.

You may need to earn certification or licensing; it depends on city and state rules. Two common certifications are Firefighter I and Firefighter II certifications, but not all agencies require them.

For example, in Georgia, those who complete fire academy training can take the Firefighter I test to earn state certification as a firefighter. They can take another test to earn national certification. Other states and fire academies combine Firefighter I and II certification into their programs. So again, make sure you understand the rules for your state or locale.

Some career and long-term volunteer firefighters attend training sessions, such as the ones sponsored by the National Fire Academy that cover anti-arson techniques, disaster preparedness and hazardous materials control.

You must be 18 years old to work for most local agencies or employers. For some, the age requirement is 21.

Expect a background check and drug screening.

Some departments require firefighters have a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to drive a fire truck.

Fire academy typically lasts about five to six months.

Practice drills are a constant in a firefighter's life, and continuing education to maintain EMT and other credentials is ongoing.

Volunteer firefighters work alongside paid firefighters to keep their community safe. As volunteer firefighter Michal Cohen explains, most volunteers get the same training and do the same job as their paid counterparts. One difference is that volunteers typically work part-time as firefighters so they can still earn a living at their regular jobs. 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts about 28,000 openings each year between 2021 and 2031. (That’s 4% growth.)

Being a successful firefighter requires that you be: 

• Physically fit (may include 20/20 eyesight)
• Compassionate and empathetic
• Courageous
• Calm under intense pressure
• Decisive, even in difficult situations
• A good communicator