Pre service Firefighter Education and Training in Ontario
The pre-service firefighter education and training is a one-year post-secondary program that teaches potential firefighting professionals theoretical and practical aspects of firefighting. It aims to help students develop skills in fire suppression, rescue operations and environmental protection. Graduates of a pre-service firefighter program are capable of:
- Working with fire-service teams and pre-hospital emergency care providers
- Providing support as a team member in emergency and non-emergency situations
- Using problem solving and decision making skills in emergency and non-emergency situations
- Demonstrating confidence, professionalism and sensitivity in a variety of emergency and non-emergency situations
- Using safe practices and techniques with apparatus, tools and equipments of fire department
- Communicating effectively using electronic, written, verbal and non-verbal methods of communication
- Ensuring ethical, safety and legal requirements for operating in fire safety industry
- Developing the skills required to suppress fire, educate community, offer firefighter emergency patient care, protect environment and conduct special rescue operations
- Working in teams with a strong desire to make a difference in the lives of others
The profession of firefighting is not for everyone. Those who are genuinely interested in serving others and having a strong desire to make a meaningful difference in their lives should consider entering the fire service industry. The job also demands emotional stability and ability to work in flexible shifts and stressful situations.
Pre-service Firefighter Courses in Canada
The pre-service firefighter courses in Canada typically run for one year and cover a wide range of subjects including:
- Introduction to fire service
- Fire ground operations
- Emergency patient care
- Fire equipment
- Fire suppression
- Rescue operations
- Environmental protection
- Fire safety inspection
- Professional preparation
- Social analysis to social action
Students also gain practical experience in rescue operations and fire suppression while utilizing training facilities at Toronto Fire Services and the state-of-the-art patient care lab.
Enrollment Guide
In order to apply for a pre-service firefighter course, you will need:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma
- English Grade 12 C or University or equivalent
- Mathematics Grade 11 M or 12 C or University or equivalent
- One Science Grade 11 or 12 (Physics, Chemistry, Biology or Exercise Science)
- To complete a self-identifying questionnaire
After admission, you will need to submit:
- Clear police check with vulnerable sector screening
- Clear medical report
- Proof of immunization
- Complete CPR and First Aid Training
- Class DZ driving licence
In addition, you should also have 20/30 vision in each eye without corrective lenses and normal unaided hearing.
Choosing the Right College in Ontario
A number of colleges in Ontario offer pre-service firefighter education and training. Unfortunately, not all are accredited to a state governing body. While choosing a college in Canada, ensure that the program:
- Curriculum is approved by the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC) and the Ontario Office of the Fire Marshall (OFM)
- Combines theory and practical
- Provides field placement
- Makes you eligible to write the Ontario Fire Marshall Provincial Testing
- Is taught in partnership with Toronto Fire Services
Centennial College's pre-service firefighter education and training program meets all these criteria and prepares you for an exciting career in fire service industry.
