Q: Can I become a firefighter with a felony?

Yes, you can become a firefighter with a felony. A felony will often disqualify you from becoming a firefighter, but the specific regulations vary by department and by state. The factors affecting your hireability as a firefighter with a felony include the number of offenses, the time since it happened, what type of law was broken.

Q: Does the Fire Department drug test?

Yes, the Fire Department drug tests. All candidates are required to undergo a drug test as part of the hiring process. Fire Department employees are also subject to random drug testing, the union, county, and department dictate often random testing occurs. For example, some unions require random drug testing once every two weeks but do not test for the presence of alcohol.

Q: How hard is it to become a fire fighter in California?

It is somewhat hard to become a firefighter in California. It takes time to become a firefighter in California, usually between 2 to 5 years including degrees, EMT training, and fire academy. It is also a very competitive job market, so you will need to work hard to stand out as a candidate.

Q: How hard is it to become a firefighter?

It is fairly hard to become a firefighter. Training to become a firefighter is also difficult. Firefighter training will challenge you mentally, physically, and academically. Not to mention that the firefighting career field is very competitive; there could be hundreds, possibly thousands of applicants, depending on the department and location.

Question 1

At what age can you become a firefighter?

Accepted Answer

The age at which you can become a firefighter depends on the jurisdiction and specific fire department, with many setting the age requirement at either 18 or 21 years of age.

These are the two most common age requirements for firefighters in the US, however, some jurisdictions allow applicants to be as young as 17. Jurisdictions that have a minimum age requirement of 17 also require applicants to provide parental consent forms.

Question 2

Can I become a firefighter with a felony?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can become a firefighter with a felony. A felony will often disqualify you from becoming a firefighter, but the specific regulations vary by department and by state. The factors affecting your hireability as a firefighter with a felony include the number of offenses, the time since it happened, what type of law was broken.

Question 3

Can a DACA recipient become a firefighter?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a DACA recipient can become a firefighter; however, candidates must have the proper status (green card, work visa, etc.) to work legally in the United States of America. LAFD does not sponsor work visas, green cards, or DACA. After that, DCAA candidates must then pass both a physical and written exam, as well as complete a training program.

Question 4

Can i become a firefighter with a misdemeanor?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can become a firefighter with a misdemeanor, but it depends on the specific misdemeanor and the particular fire department. Some misdemeanors may disqualify you from becoming a firefighter, while others may not. It is best to contact the fire department you are interested in to find out their specific requirements.

Question 5

Does the Fire Department drug test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the Fire Department drug tests. All candidates are required to undergo a drug test as part of the hiring process. Fire Department employees are also subject to random drug testing, the union, county, and department dictate often random testing occurs. For example, some unions require random drug testing once every two weeks but do not test for the presence of alcohol.

Question 6

How hard is it to become a fire fighter in California?

Accepted Answer

It is somewhat hard to become a firefighter in California. It takes time to become a firefighter in California, usually between 2 to 5 years including degrees, EMT training, and fire academy. It is also a very competitive job market, so you will need to work hard to stand out as a candidate.

Question 7

How hard is it to become a firefighter?

Accepted Answer

It is fairly hard to become a firefighter. Training to become a firefighter is also difficult. Firefighter training will challenge you mentally, physically, and academically. Not to mention that the firefighting career field is very competitive; there could be hundreds, possibly thousands of applicants, depending on the department and location.

Question 8

How long do firefighters work?

Accepted Answer

Firefighters typically work long shifts that include nights, weekends, and holidays. Firefighters do not work a typical eight-hour day. While shifts may vary based on jurisdiction, the most common shifts for firefighters are 24 hours followed by 48 hours off or ten to 12-hour shifts for three to four days in a row.

Question 9

How to become a firefighter with no experience

Accepted Answer

Becoming a firefighter with no experience is possible if you have met the minimum requirements prior to applying. While all jurisdictions have their own hiring parameters, most all require that candidates meet three minimum standards.

Question 10

How to get a job as a firefighter

Accepted Answer

To get a job as a firefighter, get an EMT certification, pass the firefighter academy, and volunteer your time. You can help yourself stand out by obtaining a fire science degree.

Most fire departments require their firefighters to have an EMT certification. Fire departments run on approximately 70% of emergency medical runs. Most EMT certifications can be obtained in four to six months. It would be wise to consider taking it a step further and getting a paramedic license as well.

Firefighters must also apply and make it into the fire academy. Typical firefighter academies last 12 to 16 weeks. At the end of the academy, there are extensive written, physical, and medical tests that must be passed. Once this happens, you can begin applying for a position within firehouses, but often you will start out as a floater.

Fire departments want to see someone who is willing to give to the community. Find ways to donate your time for community service. The activities can be fire-related, but do not have to be. This is also a great opportunity to begin networking for your future position. Your volunteer activities are a great representation of who you are and how you will represent a department.

Question 11

Is firefighting a good career?

Accepted Answer

Yes, firefighting is a good career. However, it can only be considered a good career if you go into it for the right reasons.

Firefighters experience high rates of job satisfaction due to the fact that the career is one that helps people and can save peoples' lives. People who like high-pressure scenarios and adrenaline will thrive in a career as a firefighter.

Question 12

What degree do you need to be a firefighter?

Accepted Answer

Firefighters usually only need a high school diploma or GED; however, some possess a bachelor's degree in fire science or fire technology. Becoming a firefighter is no easy task, it requires hard work, dedication, and hours of training.

Question 13

What is the career path for a firefighter?

Accepted Answer

The career path for a firefighter involves jobs as a firefighter, lieutenant, and chief. The firefighter career path is generally very straightforward in terms of its requirements in education, training, professional experience, and advancement in the field. Here is a look at each of these facets of the firefighter career path:

Question 14

What should I study to become a firefighter?

Accepted Answer

To become a firefighter, you should study fire science or a similar field. Firefighters usually only need a high school diploma or GED; however, some possess a bachelor's degree in fire science or fire technology. Becoming a firefighter is no easy task, it requires hard work, dedication, and hours of training.

Question 15

Do firefighters make good money?

Accepted Answer

No, firefighters do not make good money. Not all firefighters have meager salaries; however, the degree of danger the job entails does correspond to its rate of pay.

Firefighters put their lives on the line every day. They not only put out fires and rescue people but also respond to other emergency situations, like natural disasters. This puts firefighters in an extreme amount of peril, and it is considered to be one of the most dangerous professions.

Question 16

Do volunteer firefighters get benefits?

Accepted Answer

Yes, firefighters get benefits. These benefits range from a traditional pension to some form of entitlement.

While it is not legal for a city or township to pay volunteer firefighters for the work that they do, these communities are often able to provide volunteers with some form of compensation. Some communities offer a "per call" stipend designed to cover fuel costs for responding volunteers.

Question 17

What are the benefits of being a firefighter?

Accepted Answer

Saving lives, maintaining your physical fitness levels, and access to excellent benefits and pensions are benefits of being a firefighter.

Whether you work on a volunteer basis or choose to be a firefighter as your career, this job provides a sense of fulfillment that you cannot always find in other positions because you are serving the public every day. When you report for duty, then you have an opportunity to help your community on every shift in some way.

Question 18

What are the qualifications for firefighters?

Accepted Answer

The qualifications for firefighters include being at least 18 years of age and having a high school diploma. While not required, some firefighters possess a bachelor's degree in fire science or fire technology. Becoming a firefighter is no easy task; it requires hard work, dedication, and hours of training.

Question 19

Why do you want to be a firefighter?

Accepted Answer

To answer, "why do you want to be a firefighter?", focus on your desire to save lives. Employers want to know about your intentions for this role. Being a firefighter means being strong and courageous, but it also requires compassion and empathy. This combination of qualities is rare and requires a special kind of person.

Question 20

Firefighter vs. Police

Accepted Answer

A firefighter is a public employee who helps put out fires and rescues people from fires and other emergency situations, while the police are a group of law enforcement officials who aim to keep communities safe and arrest criminals.

Question 21

How many hours do firefighters work?

Accepted Answer

Firefighters work an average of 56 hours a week. Firefighters are on duty or call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Individual shift hours vary from the fire department to the fire department.

Question 22

Is firefighter a good job?

Accepted Answer

Yes, being a firefighter is a good job. Firefighting is a rewarding career that offers a very high level of job satisfaction. Being a firefighter is a great job if you enjoy helping people and serving your community, but be aware that it can be demanding, stressful, and even dangerous at times.

Question 23

What are the best gifts for a firefighter?

Accepted Answer

A firefighter American flag, tactical smartwatch covers, and personalized firefighter caricatures are the best gifts for a firefighter. An American Flag-to-scale replica that is made from real retired fire hoses is a beautiful celebration of our country and those who keep its citizens safe.

Question 24

What are the pros and cons of being a firefighter?

Accepted Answer

The pros of being a firefighter include saving lives, maintaining your physical fitness levels, and access to excellent benefits and pension while the unusual shifts, difficulty maintaining relationships, and dangerous job duties are cons.

Question 25

What do firefighters do on a daily basis?

Accepted Answer

Firefighters respond to emergencies and fight fires, participate in training and preparedness exercises, and perform community education and outreach daily. Here are some details on the common daily activities of firefighters:

Question 26

What does a firefighter wear?

Accepted Answer

A firefighter wears thick and heavy Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), also referred to as bunker or turnout gear. It consists of a coat and pants made from several layers of a unique fabric that is fire resistant, to protect firefighters from intense heat and flames.

Question 27

What is the fire department hierarchy?

Accepted Answer

The fire department hierarchy consists of many different firefighting officials in several ranks. Fire department hierarchies can vary depending on the location of the fire department and the size of the fire department.

Question 28

Where do firefighters work?

Accepted Answer

Firefighters work at fire stations that are federally or state-owned, only during emergencies, at airports, chemical plants, or industrial sites. With the exception of part-time volunteer firefighters, most first responders live and work in fire stations for extended periods of time. Shifts typically last for 24 hours, with a total of 9 and 11 shifts a month.

Frequently asked questions about fire fighters

Questions about becoming a fire fighter