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The Ultimate Guide to Pre-Service Firefighter Programs in Canada (2025)

Introduction

Embarking on a career as a firefighter in Canada requires dedication, rigorous training, and the right educational foundation. This comprehensive guide provides a detailed breakdown of pre-service firefighter programs across Canada, encompassing both public and private institutions. By comparing costs, program durations, certifications, and admission requirements, you can make an informed decision about the best institution to align with your career aspirations.

What Is a Pre-Service Firefighter Program?

A Pre-Service Firefighter Education and Training Program is designed to equip aspiring firefighters with the essential skills and knowledge required for the profession. These programs cover:

  • Fire suppression techniques
  • Rescue operations
  • Hazardous materials handling
  • Emergency medical response skills

Graduates typically earn certifications such as NFPA 1001 Firefighter Level I & II, recognized across North America.

Pre-Service Firefighter Programs by Province

British Columbia

Justice Institute of British Columbia (JIBC)

  • URL: Fire Fighting Technologies Certificate
  • Duration: Several months (part-time, blended)
  • Cost: Approximately $10,300
  • Certifications: NFPA 1001 Firefighter I & II, HazMat Awareness/Operations
  • Admission Requirements: Age 18+, high school diploma, Standard First Aid/CPR, fitness assessment

College of the Rockies

  • Program URL: Firefighter Training Program
  • Duration: 12 weeks
  • Cost: Approximately $12,500
  • Certifications: NFPA 1001 Firefighter I & II, Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations, Wildland Firefighter Training
  • Admission Requirements: Age 18 or older, High school diploma, Valid driver’s license, First Aid and CPR certification, Fitness test

Alberta

Lakeland College – Emergency Training Centre

  • URL: Firefighter Training
  • Duration: 12 weeks
  • Cost: Approximately $12,000–$15,000
  • Certifications: NFPA 1001 Firefighter I & II, HazMat Awareness, Emergency Medical Responder
  • Admission Requirements: High school diploma, 18+, driver’s license, First Aid/CPR, fitness test

Emergency Services Academy (ESA)

  • URL: Firefighter Training Programs
  • Duration: 12 weeks
  • Cost: Approximately $14,995
  • Certifications: NFPA 1001 I & II, NFPA 1002, NFPA 1072, NFPA 1006
  • Admission Requirements: 18+, diploma, driver’s license, First Aid/CPR, fitness screening

Saskatchewan

Suncrest College – Saskatchewan Emergency Response Institute (SERI)

  • URL: Firefighter Training
  • Duration: 20 weeks
  • Cost: Approximately $11,500
  • Certifications: NFPA 1001 Firefighter I & II, NFPA 1002, HazMat Operations
  • Admission Requirements: High school diploma, 18+, driver’s license, First Aid/CPR, fitness test

Manitoba

Manitoba Emergency Services College (MESC)

  • URL: Firefighter Program
  • Duration: 1 year
  • Cost: $20,000–$30,000
  • Certifications: NFPA 1001 Firefighter I & II, technical rescue, HazMat
  • Admission Requirements: High school diploma, 18+, driver’s license, First Aid/CPR, fitness test

SMART Fire Academy

  • URL: Fire Program
  • Duration: Self-paced online (typically 3–4 months, up to 12 months) + 2-week boot camp
  • Cost: Approximately $6,895 (includes accommodations and meals during boot camp)
  • Certifications: NFPA 1001 Firefighter Level I & II, NFPA 1072 HazMat Awareness & Operations
  • Admission Requirements: 18+ recommended, physical fitness, recommended high school diploma, First Aid/CPR certification, valid driver’s license, passport for international travel

Ontario

Public Colleges Offering Firefighter Training

Certifications: NFPA 1001 Firefighter I & II, HazMat Awareness/Operations

Admission Requirements: Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), English and Math prerequisites, fitness test, First Aid/CPR

Private Institutions

Southwest Fire Academy

  • Duration: 10 weeks
  • Cost: Approximately $8,795
  • Certifications: NFPA 1001 Firefighter I & II, NFPA 1072 HazMat Awareness/Operations
  • Admission Requirements: High school diploma, 18+, driver’s license, First Aid/CPR, fitness test

Ontario Fire Academy (OFA)

  • Duration: 12 weeks
  • Cost: Approximately $14,478
  • Certifications: NFPA 1001 Firefighter I & II, Emergency First Responder (EFR)
  • Admission Requirements: High school diploma, 18+, driver’s license, First Aid/CPR, fitness test

Fire and Emergency Services Training Institute (FESTI)

  • Duration: Varies
  • Cost: Contact FESTI for pricing
  • Certifications: NFPA 1001 Firefighter I & II, specialized fire training
  • Admission Requirements: High school diploma, 18+, First Aid/CPR, fitness assessment

Atlantic Canada & Northern Territories

Holland College (Prince Edward Island)

  • Duration: 17 weeks
  • Cost: Approximately $12,000
  • Certifications: NFPA 1001 Firefighter I & II

Nova Scotia Firefighters School

  • Duration: 19 weeks
  • Cost: Varies
  • Certifications: Firefighter I & II, Hazardous Materials Operations

Other

Training Division (TD) Academy – Pre-Service Firefighter Program (Texas)

  • URL: Training Division – Pre-Service Firefighter Program
  • Duration: Self-paced online learning (typically 3–4 months, up to 12 months) plus 2-week intensive hands-on boot camp
  • Cost: Approximately $6,895 CAD (includes online curriculum, boot camp, meals, and accommodation; excludes travel expenses)
  • Certifications: NFPA 1001 Firefighter Level I & II, HazMat Awareness & Operations (IFSAC/ProBoard accredited)
  • Admission Requirements: Open entry; recommended age 18+, sufficient physical fitness, strongly advised high school diploma, first aid/CPR certification, and ability to travel for the boot camp

Conclusion

Choosing the right firefighter training program is crucial for your career. This guide provides a breakdown of all accredited programs in Canada, ensuring you make an informed decision about where to start your firefighting journey.

Are you ready to take the next step? Visit the institution’s website, check admission deadlines, and start preparing for a rewarding career in firefighting today!

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