What You Can Do:
- Obtain a bachelor’s degree [fire science, fire safety & public administration are relevant]
- Take at least one fire science college course
- Take a foreign language class [being bilingual is always a plus]
- Consider taking a weight training class to build muscles and a solid core
- Get good grades and learn effective study habits (will come in handy for the fire academy)
- Participate in group projects and develop good communication skills
- Memorize the Firefighter’s Prayer (see below)
- Learn as much as you can about the fire department you are applying for (motto, statistics, history, goals, etc.)
- Consider pursuing a master’s degree in public administration
The Firefighter’s Prayer
When I am called to duty, God, whenever flames may rage;
Give me strength to save some life, whatever be its age.
Help me embrace a little child before it is too late
Or save an older person from the horror of that fate.
Enable me to be alert and hear the weakest shout,
And quickly and efficiently to put the fire out.
I want to fill my calling and to give the best in me,
To guard my every neighbor and protect his property.
And if, according to my fate, I am to lose my life;
Please bless with your protecting hand
my children and my wife.