Firefighter Training – How to Become a Firefighter

Learn how to become a firefighter and basics to firefighter training including requirements from the team at WFCA (Western Fire Chiefs Association).

Firefighting is a dynamic and essential profession that encompasses a wide range of roles and specialties. Two primary types of firefighting—structural and wildland—each offer distinct challenges, environments, and responsibilities. While both share the core mission of saving lives and protecting property, the methods and skill sets required for each vary significantly.

Types of Firefighters

Firefighting comes in two primary forms, each with unique responsibilities and challenges: structural and wildland firefighting. Both types focus on combating fires and protecting lives, but they approach these tasks in different ways.

Structural Firefighting

Structural firefighters focus on fires within towns and cities, often responding to emergencies in homes, buildings, and other structures. Structural firefighters may also assist with traffic accidents, perform vehicle extractions, and handle hazardous material spills. These firefighters are trained in basic emergency medical care and are often times the first responders to diverse crises. Structural firefighters may serve as full-time professionals, part-time employees, or volunteers.¹

Wildland Firefighting

Wildland firefighters operate in natural environments like forests and grasslands, managing fires that thrive in hot, dry conditions. Their work is mostly seasonal and takes place in areas that are most at risk during certain weather patterns. Wildland firefighters focus on containing and preventing fires by clearing brush, cutting firebreaks. While their primary concern is protecting natural areas, they may also rescue individuals endangered by wildfires.¹

How to Become a Firefighter

Becoming a firefighter typically involves a combination of education, training, and hands-on experience. Start by volunteering at a local fire department to gain exposure and build connections within the field. Getting physically fit and completing CPR or EMT training can strengthen an individual’s qualifications, as firefighting demands both physical stamina and medical skills. Pursuing a fire science degree or attending a firefighting academy provides essential technical knowledge. Once prepared, applicants undergo a competitive hiring process that includes written exams, physical agility tests, and interviews.²

Structure Firefighters Training and Requirements

Becoming a structural firefighter involves meeting specific requirements, completing rigorous training, and developing a strong sense of dedication to public safety. To start, individuals must meet basic qualifications, including being at least 18 years old, possessing a high school diploma or GED, and holding a valid driver’s license. Some departments have additional requirements, such as EMT or paramedic certification. Physical fitness is essential, as candidates must pass the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT), which includes tasks like stair climbing, hose dragging, and ladder raising.

Once accepted, aspiring firefighters attend a fire academy to obtain certifications like Firefighter I and II, which cover fire suppression, equipment handling, and emergency response. Training also includes practical skills such as operating hoses and pumps, rescuing victims, and conducting fire inspections. Many academies partner with local colleges or technical schools offering degrees in fire science, which can enhance career prospects.³

Wildland Firefighter Training and Requirements

Wildland firefighters play a crucial role in protecting forests, communities, and natural resources, often working in extreme conditions to manage and suppress wildfires. To become a wildland firefighter, candidates must meet basic requirements, including being at least 18 years old, holding a high school diploma or GED, possessing a valid driver’s license, and passing a drug test and background check. Physical fitness is essential, as all candidates must complete a physical exam. While a college degree isn’t mandatory, certifications in fire science or emergency medical services can enhance qualifications, and joining a volunteer fire department is a great way to gain experience.

Training typically includes completing courses like the National Wildfire Coordinating Group’s Basic Firefighter Training and earning a Red Card, which certifies readiness to work on wildland fire incidents. Many agencies, such as the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management, provide hands-on training programs, with some offering paid apprenticeships.⁴

Continuing Education for Firefighters

There are numerous ways firefighters can stay up to date on training and the latest advancements in the fire service. Attending conferences and conventions, such as the Western Fire Chiefs Association’s IGNITE Symposium, provides valuable opportunities to learn about emerging trends, cutting-edge technology, and industry best practices. Events like IGNITE also offer specialized tracks tailored to areas like wildfire, technology, and health and wellness, enabling participants to customize their learning experience. Collaborating with other agencies through joint training exercises not only broadens skill sets but also enhances teamwork and coordination for multi-agency responses. Additionally, online courses and webinars offer flexibility for continuing education, while live drills and simulations help refine hands-on skills in realistic scenarios. Staying engaged with professional organizations and pursuing advanced certifications can further ensure firefighters remain well-prepared for the evolving demands of their role.