Fire Fighter I Academy Training

Any class or certification in your pocket is a good investment towards your career. Many fire department's entry level qualifications include a State FFI certification. This certification is obtained by attending a FFI academy and 6 months practical experience with a paid department or 12 months with a volunteer department. After the education and experience components are completed, you can apply for your certification with the state Fire Marshall. FFI academies are often offered at community colleges. This website has a list of current academies http://www.firejobs.com/academies.php in your area. Like every other step of the process, research the academy and find the one best for you. Not every academy gives you the same training. Many just give you the minimum amount of certs., where others will have many added training opportunities. The basic training will include ladders, ropes & knots, how to use breathing apparatus, rescue, ventilation, elementary fire behavior, fire control techniques, firefighting tactics and strategy, fire ground safety and operations, apparatus and equipment operation and maintenance, fire investigation, report writing, wild land training, and physical fitness. Most importantly a fire academy will give you a real look into the fire service allowing you to make the decision, is it really the career for you? Most fire academies are run in a para-military style, because the fire service is a para-militaristic organization. Expect there to be attention to detail, discipline, push up and lots of running involved. The junior colleges that offer fire academies will also offer fire science classes that count towards an AS in Fire Science. Like stated before, each certification and class is a good investment for your career. Here is a great video by Orange County Fire Authority's professional firefighter academy to give you an insight into what a FFI Academy will consist of. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ll-0NV2OuFw&feature=related.