Firefighters do a lot more than just run into burning buildings. They also respond to medical emergencies and provide education in fire safety.
Getting into the firefighter profession starts with training, which varies depending on the local department and state. Firefighters typically undergo post-secondary training at the local fire academy or vocational school.
Get a Driver’s License
Getting your driver’s license is an exciting milestone that symbolizes independence and maturity. However, it is not without its difficulties. There are many requirements and checklists to follow, and the process varies from state to state.
If you are under 18, you must complete a Texas-approved driver’s education course. This course consists of in-classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. Students can begin the classroom portion of their class at age 14.
New drivers under 18 must pass both a written and driving exam. They will also need to present proof of insurance for each vehicle they own.
New Texans have 90 days to apply for a Texas driver’s license after moving to the state. During this time, they may drive with their valid out-of-state or Canadian permit as long as it is not expired. They must also notify DPS of their new address within ten days. This must be done by visiting a local DPS office in person.
Get a College Degree
Now, how do i become a firefighter in Texas? Several colleges in Texas offer a degree in fire science and firefighting. These universities are accredited and offer a wide variety of courses in firefighting. They also provide scholarships to qualified applicants. Getting a college degree is an essential step in the firefighter career path. It will give you a leg up when applying for a job at the fire department of your choice. You must pass a comprehensive screening process when applying for a firefighter position. This will include a written exam, an oral interview, and a background check. You will also have to take a physical exam and a drug screen.
There are also a few other requirements that you must meet to become a firefighter. For example, you must pass a Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT). The CPAT tests your fitness, strength, and flexibility under time constraints to see if you would fit the job.
Get a Job
As a firefighter, you will be called upon to respond to medical emergencies, search and rescue operations, traffic accidents, and other disasters. The scope of this role goes beyond what many people think about when they consider the profession. Firefighters are essential members of their communities.
To become a firefighter in Texas, you must undergo post-secondary education and training. This can be obtained through vocational schools, community colleges, and fire academies. The average wage for firemen in the state is higher than the national average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Most sizable fire departments require that prospective firefighters pass a physical fitness test known as the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT). This requires candidates to perform eight tasks while wearing a firefighter uniform and carrying gear, such as a ladder. The tests can be taken before a candidate begins their firefighter academy program or afterward.
Get a Firefighter Certification
More than just battling fires is what firefighters do. They also assist with traffic accidents, search and rescue missions, and medical situations. Becoming a firefighter takes hard work, long hours of training and dedication. It’s also a very competitive career field, with candidates competing against hundreds of other applicants.
Getting certified as a firefighter requires you to take and pass a written exam and a field test. The firefighter certification process ensures you’ve been trained in safety protocols, hazardous materials handling, firefighting techniques, and other essential aspects of the profession.
Some firefighters get their training through the fire department’s hiring academy, which is often free. Others attend a vocational school or college offering a fire science certificate program. Some colleges even offer a bachelor’s degree in fire science, which can take two years to complete. You can also find many private firefighter schools throughout the country that charge for their programs.
