How do I become a fire fighter?

How to become full time fire fighter.NOT a volunteer?

• hi, this is William.I want to become a fire fighter full time,that why now i decided to go to community college for a degree in fire science.my question is that how can i become a full time fire fighter,because when i open any website of fire departments,they all say we are accepting applications for members ( for volunteers),so PLEASE tell me that how can we become a full time fighter.Also when does the department open jobs for full time ff PLz plz reply me in detail because no one give me exact answer. thanks

• Answer:

  Hi William, you did not say where you live, so this is what information I can offer. Good Physical shape and specific courses. Almost all departments require fire fighters to be certified as emergency medical technicians. (For more information, see the section of the Handbook on emergency medical technicians and paramedics.) Although most fire departments require the lowest level of certification, Emergency Medical Technician-Basic (EMT-Basic), larger departments in major metropolitan areas increasingly require paramedic certification. Some departments include this training in the fire academy, whereas others prefer that recruits earn EMT certification on their own but will give them up to 1 year to do it. In addition to participating in training programs conducted by local fire departments, some fire fighters attend training sessions sponsored by the U.S. National Fire Academy. These training sessions cover topics such as executive development, anti-arson techniques, disaster preparedness, hazardous materials control, and public fire safety and education. Some States also have either voluntary or mandatory fire fighter training and certification programs. Many fire departments offer fire fighters incentives such as tuition reimbursement or higher pay for completing advanced training. Other qualifications. Applicants for municipal fire fighting jobs usually must pass a written exam; tests of strength, physical stamina, coordination, and agility; and a medical examination that includes a drug screening. Workers may be monitored on a random basis for drug use after accepting employment. Examinations are generally open to people who are at least 18 years of age and have a high school education or its equivalent. Those who receive the highest scores in all phases of testing have the best chances of being hired. Thank you hope this helps, sincere best of luck........K http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos158.htm#train%E2%80%A6