Florida Fire Department Qualifications
Firefighters serve an important function in our communities.
Whether they鈥檙e rescuing kittens stuck in a tree or putting out a devastating blaze, firefighters become everyday heroes to their neighborhoods. Firefighting can be a dangerous yet rewarding occupation and requires that firefighters receive the proper training and certifications in order to join their local Fire Departments. Every fire is different, so it鈥檚 important to know how to handle a variety of emergency situations. A firefighter never knows when he or she will be needed to go inside of a building to rescue a person or stop a fire from becoming even more explosive.
Firefighter Requirements in Florida
Fire departments in Florida require that firefighters be at least 18 years old, a high school diploma or GED, and a valid Florida driver鈥檚 license. Firefighters also need to hold a State of Florida Firefighter Certificate of Compliance and a Paramedic or EMT Basic Certificate by the State of Florida.
The include successful completion of the Firefighter Minimum Standards Course and submission of Application for Certification as a Firefighter II. Certified training centers for Florida firefighters provide courses on both Firefighting I and Firefighting II to meet minimum standard qualifications in the state of Florida. These courses provide the foundational techniques to deal with firefighting situations and emergencies. Firefighters need to know ventilation techniques, how to extinguish different types of fires (electrical, gas, oil, etc.), overhauling a fire scene, and rescue operations.
What It Takes to Become an Entry-Level Firefighter in Florida
An entry-level firefighter will be able to meet the Firefighter I qualifications with firefighting training from an accredited community college program or fire department training program and EMS First-Responder certification. The Firefighter II level requires training from a Certified Training Center in the state of Florida. Firefighters learn the basics of firefighting hydraulics, fire apparatus operations, and optional aerial operations. Volunteer firefighter and fire department training can be invaluable education for those seeking the minimum standard firefighter certification. Take the first steps toward becoming a firefighter by completing EMT or Paramedics certifications and the Firefighter Minimum Standards course.
