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What Can You Do Now to Prepare
Becoming a firefighter often takes a great deal of long-term preparation, self motivation, and commitment. Where there is no guarantee that any of the following activities will result in your selection as an entry-level firefighter, experience has shown that participation in these types of activities has tended to distinguish outstanding candidates, and documents and applicants interest in the position.
Some community colleges offer Fire Science degrees and/or certificates. This listing is only a sample and does not serve as an endorsement for any one program. Check the availability of classes at your local school.
- First Aid Courses
- Advanced First Aid Certificate (Contact the local American Red Cross for a course schedule)
- Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certificate
- Fire Service Related Courses (Offered at Community Colleges)
- Basic English Grammar and Reading Comprehension
- Basic Math
- Emergency Medical Technician I Certificate
- Fire Service Technology Courses
- Fire Science A.A. Degree:
- Physical Agility Training
- Firefighter Academy
- Mount SAC
- Santa Ana College
- Crafton Hills
- Foothill Academy
- South Bay Academy
- Jim Shern Academy
- Fire Science A.A. Degree:
In order to prepare for firefighting work, it is important to have and maintain a physical fitness program. While no one course of physical fitness will suit every individual, a physical regimen that stresses endurance and total body strength can assist in developing a level of physical preparedness that is needed to succeed in physical agility performance testing. It is recommended that you consult your private physician before starting any fitness program.
Several institutions may assist you in deciding on a physical fitness program:
Several institutions may assist you in deciding on a physical fitness program:
- Community colleges
- YMCA/YWCA
- Private health club
- Health maintenance organization (i.e. Kaiser Permanente)
Applicants are not required to participate in extracurricular activities. Nevertheless, participation in various types of community programs does establish a record of interest and motivation.
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Volunteer Fire Service Work
- Reserve Programs (Check with your local Fire Dept.)
- Auxiliary Programs (Check with your local Fire Dept.)
- Office of Emergency Services (OES)
- California Conservation Corp (CCC)
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Volunteer Community Services
- Church Programs
- Scout Troops (Explorer Programs)
- Community Organization
- Hospitals
- Schools
There are several other ways to prepare for a career in the fire services. Occasionally, there are civilian jobs in dispatch. administration, or fire prevention. Most jurisdictions have a recorded job information hotline that lists vacancies. For Anaheim, that number is 714-765-5197. Current employment as a paramedic, nurse, medical assistant, or in any direct service capacity in an emergency environment is helpful.
Anaheim also has an interest card that can be completed by prospective applicants. Interest cards can be obtained in person or by calling 714-765-5111. Other cities may have something similar. The Anaheim Fire Department offers a reserve work experience program for those who are interested in exploring a career in the fire service..
It is important to:
Anaheim also has an interest card that can be completed by prospective applicants. Interest cards can be obtained in person or by calling 714-765-5111. Other cities may have something similar. The Anaheim Fire Department offers a reserve work experience program for those who are interested in exploring a career in the fire service..
It is important to:
- Visit the Fire Station - This is an excellent opportunity for interested individuals to talk to personnel and discuss the pros and cons of the profession and determine whether or not the day-to-day routine(s) match their own skills and interests.
- Develop a resume to include all Fire Service related information so it is easily available when the application period opens.
- Start your education and physical fitness training now!