Firefighting is one of the most challenging and respected professions. Firefighters are the community’s first line of defense against loss of life and property. In addition to fighting fires, they are often the first responders in a medical emergency. Firefighters take decisive action under difficult circumstances, perform strenuous physical tasks, and have a strong commitment to public service.
Certification as a firefighter in the State of Florida requires meeting all of the requirements in Florida Statues 633.412. Applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Be a high school graduate or have passed the GED exam
- Demonstrate good moral character
- Be a non-user of tobacco for at least one year
- Be physically fit as determined by a physician
- Pass a background check
In addition to these meeting these non-curricular requirements, students become certified by successfully completing Firefighter I (volunteer) and Firefighter II training and then passing the State of Florida certification examination.
To meet these training requirements, SFSC offers two programs: Minimum Fire Standards and Firefighter II.
Minimum Fire Standards
Minimum Fire Standards is for applicants who want to pursue a career in fire service but have limited fire training and experience. The program covers all components of Firefighter I (FFP 0010) and Firefighter II (FFP 0020) offered in a contiguous fashion. Students who complete all requirements for Firefighter I training and meet all requirements of FS 633.412 may advance to the Firefighter II portion of training.
Firefighter II
Firefighter II (FFP 0020) applicants are usually experienced volunteer firefighters who have completed Firefighter I training. These applicants wish to continue training in order to obtain state certification and/or employment. Applicants are required to have a certificate of completion of a Firefighter I course that has been approved by the Bureau of Fire Standards and Training and meets the most current standard. For more information, refer to FAC 69A -37 . Applicants must show proof of compliance with FS 633.412 prior to being admitted to the program.
Equipment
Students enrolled in Minimum Standards or Firefighter II are responsible for providing their own structural firefighting equipment to include: helmet with eye protection; Nomex hood, bunker coat and pants; boots; and gloves. These items must be compliant with the most recent version of National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standard 1851. Cadets will have the opportunity to rent this equipment for the duration of this program, if necessary. SFSC provides SCBA masks and air packs.
