What Skills Will I Learn in Firefighting Courses?
Although firefighters often learn on the job, many choose to attend firefighting courses. These courses might lead to a certificate or a degree in fire science or fire technology. Read on to find out what skills you will learn in firefighting courses. Schools offering Fire Science degrees can also be found in these popular choices.
Skills Gained Through Firefighting Courses
Firefighting academies as well as many college and universities offer firefighting courses. From fire rescue to basic first aid skills, firefighting courses prepare students for a career as a firefighter. Potential course titles include:
- Fire suppression techniques
- Fire and smoke behavior
- Fire service vehicle operation
- Fire evacuation preparation
- Fire investigation techniques
Important Facts About Firefighting
| Skills | Physical endurance, physical strength, good communication skills |
| Entry-Level Education | High school diploma, post-secondary certificate or associate's degree |
| On-the-job Training | Departments that do not require post-secondary education generally provide training on the job |
| Certification | Some departments may require certification as Emergency Medical Technician |
Firefighting Tactics and Strategies
Firefighting courses teach students the skills needed to control and manage many types of fires. Courses address how to combat structural fires, exterior fires, vehicle fires, gas fires, electrical fires and even wildland fires. Fire rescue tactics are also taught in firefighting courses.
Fire Apparatus and Equipment Awareness
How to operate fire vehicles and use firefighting equipment are covered in many firefighting courses. The use of ropes, ladders, hoses and personal protection equipment are explored in these types of firefighting courses. How to use special equipment for vehicle extrications might also be covered.
Emergency Medical Skills
In addition to responding to fire emergencies, firefighters are also taught how to respond to medical emergencies. Some firefighting courses teach students the emergency medical skills they will need as firefighters. Basic first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) classes are typically offered in many firefighting programs. Students will receive medical training in trauma and how to treat wounds and fractures.
Fire Investigation Methods
Some firefighting programs offer courses in fire investigation. Methods used for assessing fire damage and determining the causes of a fire are taught in these classes. Other skills taught in fire investigation courses include assessing water and smoke damage, preparing reports and interviewing witnesses.
To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below:
Subscribe to RSS feed for
Fire Safety and Fire Fighting FAQs
