Qualifications. You don’t need any particular qualifications to become a firefighter, however you’ll be expected to pass English and Maths tests at a GCSE Grade C level (or equivalent).
How long does it take to become a firefighter UK?
Duration: 18-month apprenticeship, then up to 36 months to achieve full competency as a firefighter. Assessment: an assessment at 18 months that includes a knowledge test, practical observation and a professional discussion.
How many Gcses do you need to be a firefighter?
What qualifications do I need to become a firefighter? You need to have achieved 9-4 grades in GCSE maths and English language, or a level two equivalent (like a vocational qualification). You’ll need to provide your qualification certificates as part of the application process.
How much does a UK firefighter make?
As a Trainee Firefighter you’ll earn a salary of £27,750 pa including London Weighting.
Our pay and benefits are great.
| Role | Salary |
|---|---|
| Trainee Firefighter | £28,730 |
| Firefighter (Development) | £29,880 |
| Firefighter (Competent) | £38,340 – £39,325 |
| Leading Firefighter | £41,842 – £42,829 |
What disqualifies you from being a firefighter UK?
Minimum age of 17 ½ years old – Candidates must meet this lower age limit at the time of application. There is no maximum age limit. No unspent convictions on criminal record – Candidates must not have any unspent criminal convictions on their record. This rule applies to all emergency service roles.
DO YOU NEED A levels to be a firefighter?
Qualifications. You don’t need any particular qualifications to become a firefighter, however you’ll be expected to pass English and Maths tests at a GCSE Grade C level (or equivalent).
Is there a height requirement for firefighters UK?
What are the minimum and maximum heights you need to be to become a firefighter? There are no height restrictions, however, you will need to pass a series of role based tests such as removing a ladder from the rear of a fire appliance, which some may find more difficult than others.
Do firefighters need math?
Firefighters need to use mental math when choosing how to attack a fire safely and avoid damaging the integrity of a building. Our degree program also trains firefighters to use a method called the Fire Flow Formula to determine how much water they will require to suppress a fire.
Can I become a firefighter without maths?
Applicants without Mathematics and Physical Science will be selected for admission based on the successful completion of a potential assessment, a science skills knowledge test and an interview.
What subjects does a firefighter need?
Firefighter Requirements
- 18 years or older.
- Matric (Mathematics and Physical Science an advantage)
- Physically and mentally fit (evaluations will be conducted)
- Must not be claustrophobic (have a fear of enclosed spaces)
- Must not be acrophobic (have a fear of heights)
- High level of discipline.
- Ability to work in a team.
Who gets paid more fireman or police UK?
A firefighter leading a crew earns just over £30,000, while a station officer can earn more than £38,000.
How long are firefighter shifts UK?
Most of our operational firefighters work a standard shift pattern from 08:00 until 18:00 on a ‘tour’ of two days, two nights then four days off.
Is being a firefighter fun?
Some of the most fun I’ve ever had in my life has been with my fellow firefighters on shift! Between stirring up trouble and throwing down on some 911 calls both fire and medical the good times are ALMOST nonstop. The thing to remember is the people you work with in the fire service become way more than just coworkers.
What are 5 risks of being a firefighter?
- Wearing heavy equipment, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), and personal protective equipment which may require more effort to perform the same tasks.
- Heat stress.
- Excessive noise levels.
- Ultraviolet radiation.
- Extreme temperatures (both cold and heat)
- Extreme working conditions.
Can you be an overweight firefighter?
You’d be wrong. More than 70% of domestic firefighters are overweight or obese, a rate slightly higher than the general population, according to a recent study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “It’s tough. Firefighters are humans too.
Can firefighters be smokers?
The state law also requires immediate termination of any firefighter or police officer caught smoking. So while there are some long-time firefighters who still do smoke, any newer employee who does is risking their job.
How hard is it to become a firefighter?
Becoming a firefighter is no easy task. It requires hard work, long hours of training, dedication and a sincere desire to help others. The firefighting career field is very competitive, too. You’ll be up against hundreds, possibly thousands of applicants depending on the department.
Do firefighters need to be able to swim?
As part of their duties, Firefighters are generally expected to be able to perform in-water rescues if required. Therefore firefighters need to be able to swim and be confident in water to the levels set in the essential criteria by the FRS. These may vary slightly from FRS to FRS – like everything else in the process!
Is firefighting a good career?
It has been said that firefighters have the best job in the world. Theirs is a profession that is exciting, rewarding, and secure. It also provides excellent pay, benefits, and promotional opportunities. Firefighters are also highly esteemed members of their communities.
How do I prepare for firefighter fitness test?
7 Tips for Training and Testing
- Start with Stretching. Begin each workout with a dynamic stretching routine.
- Upper Body Workouts. Use exercises like dips and chin ups to work several upper body muscles at once.
- Core Strength.
- Cardiovascular Fitness.
- Most Common CPAT Challenges.
- Cooldown with Biofreeze.
- CPAT Test Day.
How much weight do firefighters carry?
NFPA requires all sets of turnout gear to be retired at or before 10 years of service. The average set of turnout gear weighs as much as 45 pounds. This includes; helmets, gloves, hoods, boots, coats, and pants. Tack on other equipment like radios, lights, irons, and that weight can easily be doubled.