Training for Firefighters - What should I take?

This is usually your first step if you are interested in becoming a firefighter. NFPA 1001 Standard for Fire Fighter Professional Qualification and the NFPA 472 (or NFPA 1072) Standard for competence of responders to Hazardous Materials/Weapons of Mass Destruction – Operations Level are almost always a minimum requirements for applying to any fire department.

What is NFPA 1001?

NFPA 1001 is a standard issued by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). It entails specific guidelines for firefighter training and certification procedures. NFPA 1001 covers other aspects of firefighting, such as fire behavior, fire protection systems, emergency medical operations, and hazardous materials response. The standard is intended for ensuring the provision of necessary skills and knowledge to firefighters so they can safely and effectively perform their duties.

Can NFPA 1001 be completed online?

It depends upon which school you select. Some firefighter schools allow you to complete the theoretical portion of the program online. However, visiting a campus is necessary for the practical skill testing portion of the program.

How long is the NFPA 1001 program?

The length of the NFPA 1001 program varies based on the fire school you choose. It can range from 5 months to a little over a year.

Can I get my NFPA 1001 for free?

The short answer is yes! There is a catch, you need to be fortunate enough to live close to a volunteer, part time or paid-on-call fire department. If you can get into one of these departments, you can get trained for free or very little cost.

Are there some minimum requirements before I can apply for this program?

This will again depends on the fire school you choose, but typically you can expect:

• 18+ years of age
• Completed your post secondary education

Will my NFPA 1001 certification expire?

This certification (and most IFSAC and Pro Board certification) will not expire.

What skills are gained from your NFPA 1001 certification?

Skills gained from NFPA 1001 Firefighter Level 1 & 2 include:

• Knowledge of firefighting techniques, tactics, and procedures
• Understanding of fire safety regulations and codes
• Ability to use and maintain firefighting equipment
• Ability to work with a team and provide leadership in emergency situations
• Understanding of hazardous materials and their containment and disposal
• Skill in operating and maneuvering fire apparatus and equipment
• Ability to assess and control hazardous situations
• Understanding of fire prevention and public education techniques

Providers

For a full list, visit our article:  The Ultimate Guide to Pre-Service Firefighter Programs in Canada

NFPA 1072 is another important minimum requirement. 

What is NFPA 1072?

NFPA 1072, is a standard published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). It is a Standard for Hazardous Materials/Weapons of Mass Destruction Emergency Response Personnel Professional Qualifications and outlines the minimum job performance requirements (JPRs) for emergency response personnel. The standard is divided into three levels: Hazmat Awareness, Hazmat Operations, and Hazmat Technician levels.

Please note - While it could be beneficial to reach the technical level, the minimum requirement is the Operations level.

NFPA 1072 Hazmat Awareness Level is the minimum level of qualification for emergency response personnel who may be called upon to respond to incidents involving hazardous materials. At this level, emergency response personnel possess a basic understanding of hazardous materials, such as recognizing hazardous materials and the appropriate protective actions to take in the event of a release.

NFPA 1072 Hazmat Operations Level is a higher qualification for emergency response personnel who may be called upon to respond to incidents involving hazardous materials. Emergency response personnel who have achieved this level have a more advanced understanding of hazardous materials and possess the skills and knowledge to conduct operations effectively. The primary goal of personnel on this level is to control, contain, and mitigate hazardous material. Other tasks are decontamination, air monitoring, and the use of specialized personal protective equipment.

Most fire departments will require their personnel to carry some level of medical certification. The medical level certification can range from basic first aid to Primary Care Paramedic (PCP) certification.

Why is medical training important in the fire service?

Medical training is important in the fire service for a number of reasons:

1. Firefighters are among the first emergency aid responders, and often provide medical care in emergency situations before paramedics, or other medical professionals arrive. This means they will offer first aid to treat injuries or illnesses before paramedics arrive. Thus, their medical knowledge and skills significantly affect the situation's outcome.
2. Fire incidents and similar emergencies may involve fires and other hazardous materials, which can cause serious injuries or illnesses. Firefighters should possess the knowledge and skills to recognize the signs and symptoms of hazardous material injuries and provide appropriate treatment.
3. Firefighters have to deal with infectious disease exposure and health hazards. Firefighters equipped with medical knowledge have better chances at personal protection.
4. Usually, people call upon Firefighters to provide basic first aid and medical assistance to affected community members after an incident. Firefighters' medical skills and knowledge greatly affect how they provide medical assistance to sensitive victims, including children and older adults. Appropriate Medical training helps firefighters to offer first aid effectively and compassionately.

Overall, medical training is an important part of a firefighter's role, as it enables them to provide life-saving care in emergency situations and to protect their own health and well-being.

What are some common firefighter medical training courses:

• CPR/AED - Level C
• Standard First Aid CPR/AED
• Emergency First Aid CPR/AED
• First Responder
• Emergency Medical Responder (EMR)
• Primary Care Paramedic (PCP)

What transferable skills come from this training?

Specific skills that are transferable from medical experience to firefighting include:

• Knowledge of basic first aid, CPR, and emergency medical services
• Ability to assess injuries, illnesses, and other medical conditions
• Ability to evaluate the environment and determine the best course of action
• Ability to work with a team and provide leadership in emergencies
• Knowledge of medical terminology and documentation
• Ability to remain calm and collected in high-stress situations
• Ability to stay attentive and conscious of safety protocols and regulations

The terminology changes from one province to the next, but this is a requirement for many departments. If not required during the initial application, you will be required to acquire this shortly after being hired. It is recommended to get this certification as soon as possible.

A Pleasure Craft Operators Card is not required by every department, but it's a very easy certification to acquire. If you don't have this certification, get it.

What is a Pleasure Craft Operators Card, and why is it important for firefighters?

A Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) demonstrates that the holder has completed a boating safety course. It verifies that the holder is familiar with the rules and regulations of operating a pleasure craft (such as a motorboat or personal watercraft) in Canada.

Firefighters' job involves responding to emergencies on or near the water. For example, they may need to rescue people from a sinking boat or help evacuate a flooded area. To do this effectively and safely, firefighters need a PCOC. It familiarizes firefighters with the proper procedures for operating a boat and navigating in water environments.

What transferable skills are gained from obtaining a Pleasure Craft Operator card?

Skills gained from obtaining a Pleasure Craft Operator card that is transferable to firefighting include:

• Knowledge of safety regulations and procedures for operating boats
• Skill in maneuvering boats in a variety of conditions
• Ability to read and interpret maps and navigational aids
• Ability to assess and control hazardous situations
• Knowledge of maintenance and repair of boats and related equipment
• Ability to operate boats safely in high-stress and emergency situations

AceBoater

Technical rescue refers to the specialized procedures and techniques used by emergency response personnel to rescue people from hazardous or difficult-to-access environments. Technical rescue training courses teach firefighters the skills and knowledge needed to respond to technical rescue incidents safely. Technical rescues include:

• Rope rescue: This type of rescue saves people stuck in tricky locations during an incident. Ropes, harnesses, and other specialized equipment are used to rescue people from heights, crevices, or other inaccessible locations.
• Trench rescue: If people get trapped in trenches, trench rescue is preformed to save them.
• Confined space rescue: Firefighters use this type of rescue to save people trapped in confined spaces, such as tanks, silos, or underground vaults.
• Water rescue: Used by Firefighters to save people stranded or trapped in water bodies, such as rivers, lakes, or flooded areas.

Many technical rescue courses are available for firefighters, ranging from basic awareness-level courses to advanced technical rescue training programs. Some popular technical rescue training programs for firefighters include:

• NFPA 1006 - Rope Rescue Awareness, Operations, Technician Levels
• NFPA 1006 - Tower Rescue Awareness, Operations, Technician Levels
• NFPA 1006 - Confined Space Rescue Awareness, Operations, Technician Levels
• NFPA 1006 - Swift Water Rescue Awareness, Operations, Technician Levels
• NFPA 1006 - Ice Water Rescue Awareness, Operations, Technician Levels
• NFPA 1006 - Auto Extrication Awareness, Operations, Technician Levels

Firefighters need to receive appropriate technical rescue training in order to safely and effectively respond to technical rescue incidents.

How do I know what technical rescue training to take?

When you're ready to start taking firefighter technical rescue courses, you will have taken your NFPA 1001 Firefighter Levels 1 & 2. NFPA 1001 will expose you to the awareness levels of many of these technical rescue courses.

This should give you an idea of what technical rescue program you enjoyed and excelled at. Use this to choose what technical rescue you would like to progress in.

What transferable skills are gained from technical/specialized rescue training?

Skills gained from technical/specialized rescue training that is transferable to firefighting include:

• Knowledge of safety protocols and procedures for technical/specialized rescue operations
• Ability to assess hazardous situations and determine the best course of action
• Skill in using and maintaining specialized tools and equipment
• Ability to work with a team and provide leadership in emergency situations
• Understanding of hazardous materials and their containment and disposal
• Ability to remain calm and collected in high-stress situations
• Ability to stay attentive and conscious of safety regulations and protocols

NFPA 1035 is a Standard published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). It specifies the minimum job performance requirements (JPRs) for public fire and life safety educators.

The main role of Public Fire and Life Safety Educators is to educate the public about fire and life safety. They offer training on issues like fire prevention, home safety, and emergency preparedness. Usually, this personnel works in different places, including schools, community centers, and other public venues.

At every level of NFPA 1035, tasks and responsibilities vary depending on the organization's needs or jurisdiction. In general, public fire and life safety educators at higher levels are expected to have a greater depth of knowledge and expertise. Higher-level personnel is also expected to deliver more complex educational programs.

What transferable skills are gained from NFPA 1035 Fire and Life Safety Educator training?

NFPA 1035 Fire and Life Safety Educator training offer many transferable skills for firefighters, including:

• Knowledge of fire safety codes and standards: The training offers a thorough understanding of fire safety codes, and job-related fire regulations and guidelines.
• Understanding of fire behaviour and dynamics: The training covers fire behaviour and dynamics, allowing firefighters to make more informed decisions during fire incident response.
• Familiarity with fire safety equipment and techniques: The training offers helpful instructions on fire safety equipment and techniques, allowing firefighters to properly use and maintain their equipment.
• Communication and presentation skills: Firefighters must communicate effectively with other firefighters, the public, and associated respondents during an emergency. The training teaches firefighter communication and presentation skills to present safety information to the public.
• Leadership skills: Firefighters may need to lead teams as team leaders or company officers. The training teaches transferable firefighter leadership skills.

What is NFPA 1002 - Driver Operator?

NFPA 1002 Driver Operator is a standard developed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) that provides requirements for the certification of fire service personnel who operate fire apparatus. It outlines the minimum qualification requirements and training necessary for personnel to safely and effectively use fire apparatus and equipment. The standard also guides the safe operation of fire apparatus and equipment in emergency response situations.

Why is NFPA 1002 important?

NFPA 1002 Driver Operator is vital as it sets standards for the operation of fire apparatus and equipment to ensure the safety of fire service personnel and the public they serve. It also sets the minimum qualifications necessary for personnel to operate fire apparatus and equipment with confidence and proficiency. By following the standard's requirements, fire service personnel can ensure they are well-trained and qualified to handle fire apparatus and related equipment safely and effectively.

What is NFPA 1031 - Fire Inspector?

NFPA 1031, Fire Inspector Professional Qualifications, is a standard developed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) that provides minimum job performance requirements for fire inspectors. The standard specifies fire inspectors' minimum required qualifications, training, and certifications. The standard also includes inspection and testing guidance for fire protection systems and equipment and enforcement of fire codes and regulations.

Why is NFPA 1031 an important certification?

NFPA 1031 sets the minimum standards of knowledge, skills, and abilities required for fire inspectors (and aspiring firefighters) . This certification also ensures that fire inspectors have the qualifications to inspect fire protection systems and equipment in accordance with applicable fire codes and regulations. Thus, the standard guidelines are critical for protecting public life and property against fire threats.

What transferable skills are gained from NFPA 1031 Fire Inspector training?

Skills gained from NFPA 1031 Fire Inspector training that is transferable to firefighting include:

• Knowledge of fire safety regulations and codes
• Ability to assess hazardous situations and determine the best course of action
• Understanding of fire prevention and public education techniques
• Ability to work with a team and provide leadership in emergency situations
• Skill in conducting fire inspections and providing feedback
• Knowledge of safety protocols and procedures for emergency responses
• Ability to remain attentive and conscious of safety regulations and protocols

What is NFPA 1041 - Fire Service Instructor?

NFPA 1041 Fire Service Instructor is a standard developed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) that provides minimum job performance requirements for fire service instructors. It outlines the qualifications, training, and certifications necessary to become a certified fire instructor. The standard also provides guidance on developing, delivering, and evaluating fire service training programs.

Why is NFPA 1041 an important certification?

NFPA 1041 for fire service instructors sets the minimum standards of knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to teach fire service personnel safely and effectively. This certification also sets qualifications and criteria for fire service instructors to develop, deliver and evaluate training programs according to applicable fire codes and regulations.

What transferable skills are gained from NFPA 1041 Fire Instructor training?

•  Knowledge of firefighting techniques and procedures: The training provides firefighters with information on techniques, and procedures necessary to properly perform their duties and stay safe.
• Teaching and training skills: Firefighters may also train and teach others within the department or community. The training helps them develop the skills and information necessary for effective teaching.
• Leadership skills: Firefighters often work in teams and leadership roles, such as team leader or company officer. The training teaches firefighters transferable leadership in firefighting.
• Evaluation and assessment skills: The training offers student assessment and evaluation guidelines. It also provides help with firefighter self-assessment and team evaluation.
• Familiarity with fire safety equipment and techniques: The training teaches firefighters about properly using and maintaining fire safety equipment and techniques.
• Communication and presentation skills: Firefighters must effectively communicate with other firefighters, building owners, managers, and the public during an emergency. The training teaches important communication and safety information presentation skills to firefighters.

What is a firefighter wellness course?

A firefighter wellness course offers guidelines on emergency responders' physical and mental well-being. These courses address a wide range of firefighter wellness topics, such as stress management, nutrition, fitness, and mental health. Firefighter wellness also offers guidelines for leadership, teamwork, and other aspects of emergency services. These courses aim to ensure emergency responders' health and fitness for performing duties safely and effectively.

Why would a course like this be important?

Firefighters' job is physically and mentally demanding, and we expect them to be in peak physical condition. As emergency responders, firefighters must possess the mental and emotional strength to cope with work-related stress and trauma. A comprehensive understanding of firefighter wellness helps firefighters stay healthy, safe, and effective in their roles.

What is a SCUBA Certification program?

Why would a SCUBA Certification Program be a good certification for firefighters?

A SCUBA Certification Program for firefighters provides specialized knowledge and skills necessary to work safely and effectively in underwater environments. This certification enables firefighters to respond to and fight fires on or near water and teaches them how to conduct water rescue operations. SCUBA-certified firefighters are well-prepared for handling situations involving an underwater rescue.

Yes, I know what you're thinking (or maybe you're not...). Why would it beneficial to have culinary training in the fire service?

A culinary program for aspiring firefighters provides the knowledge and skills necessary to prepare nutritious and efficient meals. Firefighters are often away from home for extended periods, so culinary education helps them plan and prepare energy-rich, nutritious meals for staying healthy and strong. It also allows firefighters to save time and money by learning how to make healthy and cost-effective meals.

What does chainsaw certification / training provide?

Chainsaw certification offers the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and competently use a chainsaw. This certification program covers topics such as chainsaw safety, maintenance, and repair. It also teaches proper techniques for cutting and trimming trees. Students are awarded a globally recognized chainsaw certification upon completing the program.

Why would it be beneficial to have chainsaw training as an aspiring firefighter?

Chainsaw training for aspiring firefighters provides them with the knowledge and skills required for safely and competently using a chainsaw. It enables firefighters to respond to emergencies involving fallen trees blocking roads or fire lines. This certification is also valuable for firefighters in clearing debris after a fire.

What is firefighter leadership training?

Firefighter leadership training offers professional leadership and management skills for firefighters. It covers topics like communication, teamwork, problem-solving, decision-making, and conflict resolution. Firefighter leadership prepares fire service personnel to lead safely, efficiently, and effectively.

Why is firefighter leadership training an important certification?

Firefighter leadership training prepares aspiring firefighters to lead their teams in emergency situations. As a firefighter, leadership and communication are essential, and leadership training teaches how to make sound decisions quickly and effectively.

What is conflict resolution training?

Conflict resolution training teaches participants how to resolve conflicts in and out of the workplace. It covers topics like communication, active listening, problem-solving, and negotiation. Conflict resolution teaches the skills to identify and address conflicts constructively and effectively.

Why is conflict resolution training an important certification?

Firefighters often work in stressful and chaotic environments and need conflict resolution skills to identify and address conflicts quickly and effectively. The training helps them focus on the task and keeps everyone safe. Conflict resolution training helps firefighters manage their teams and work together without prolonged conflicts.

What is a small engine repair course?

As the name implies, a small engine repair course teaches individuals the principles of small engine maintenance and repair. It covers topics like engine safety, engine operation, troubleshooting, and repair techniques.

Why would this be important for a firefighter?

Firefighters often use small engines such as power pumps, generators, compressors, and other equipment. An engine repair certification helps firefighters use their equipment safely and correctly, which is essential for successful and effective firefighting operations. It can also help them troubleshoot and repair any engine issues.

What is a radio operator certification (ROC)?

A radio operator certification (ROC) is a type of training designed to teach individuals the principles of radio operations and communications. This certification covers topics such as radio operation, safety, troubleshooting, and maintenance. Upon successfully completing the certification, they award students a recognized worldwide certification. This certification is essential for anyone who wishes to use radios for recreational, commercial, or professional purposes.

Why would this be important for a firefighter?

Firefighters often communicate with other emergency responders over radios. Radio operator certification teaches firefighters how to operate and maintain radios properly and can help them troubleshoot and repair any radio issues.

There are various types of radio certifications available:

Basic Certifications: It covers topics like radio operations, safety, and troubleshooting.

Advanced Certifications: It teaches more advanced knowledge, including repeaters, antennas, and digital operations.

Specialized Certifications: These certifications teach the nitty gritty of specific radio types, such as marine, aviation, or amateur radio.

Marine Radio Operator Certificates: Those who operate marine radios on vessels as required by the Canadian Coast Guard should get this certification.

Aviation Radio Operator Certificates: Those who operate radios on aircraft or, as required by Transport Canada, should get this certification.

Amateur Radio Operator Certificates: Those who operate radios for recreational purposes and, as required by Canadian Amateur Radio Service, should get this certification.

What is occupational health and safety training?

Occupational health and safety training covers topics like accident prevention, hazard identification, and emergency response. It helps firefighters to prevent and respond to workplace accidents and injuries.

Why is it important for firefighters?

Firefighters work in hazardous environments and need proper training for handling hazardous materials. Training in in this area helps them identify and address potential hazards in a timely manner. It also prepares and equips them for handling emergency situations.

Why is it important for firefighter to learn a second language?

Firefighters interact with people who may or may not speak their native language. Thus, learning a second language allows for better communication with the public. Firefighters can clearly explain directions, provide assistance, and offer advice in a second language. They can also communicate with non-native speakers within their team.