Firefighting is a dangerous but noble profession. However, not everyone is cut out for this risky job. You need to be both in good shape and willing to learn both medical and fire retardant skills to succeed in this job. Some of the most common requirements for becoming a firefighter, and how to obtain them, are listed below.
Earn a High School Diploma or GED
Most states require firefighting applicants to have graduated high school or to have earned a GED. A person’s grades or extracurriculars do not matter much. However, people who are knowledgeable about medicine, science, and psychology may have a leg up on other applicants. You do not need to have any college credits or prior firefighting job experience to begin taking firefighting training lessons.
Get in Shape
Firefighters need to be physically fit if they are to be effective in saving lives. On average, firefighting gear weighs 60 pounds or more. While you do not need to be a bodybuilder to carry all of this, you do need to have body strength in both your arms and legs. This weight does not include the fire hose, carry people out of fires, or anything else you might need to carry into a burning building.
A firefighter should also have high stamina. It is important to regularly do cardio workouts to improve your stamina. Some good cardio exercises to work into your exercise routine include running, swimming, and any exercises that require you to run or jump.
Take Fire/EMT Training Classes
Potential firefighters need to take training lessons at a firefighting academy. These are usually run by the fire department within the state. Make sure to check online for classes near you. Simply searching for something like “how do I become a firefighter in Texas” should get you what you are looking for.
People who want to become firefighters who work in cities usually have to take lessons that last a few months. Once a person passes the classes at the academy, they will be allowed to work as a firefighter on a probationary period. If a person wants to fight wildfires, they may need to have several years of training, as these fires are usually more severe and dangerous.
Do you have what it takes to become a firefighter in Texas? If so, complete your education and get in shape. Good luck completing your firefighting training! Once you are done, you can begin saving lives.
