The Top 5 Reasons you can’t become a firefighter
Is firefighting for me?
Or should I even start down this path…. Do you want to put in the work? Do you really want to pursue this profession? Can you beat out the competition?
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Physical Fitness: Firefighting is a physically demanding job, and candidates are required to pass a series of physical agility tests to ensure that they are able to perform the essential tasks of the job. These tests often include tasks such as climbing stairs while carrying equipment, dragging hoses, and lifting heavy objects. If a candidate is unable to meet the physical requirements of the job, they may not be able to become a firefighter.
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Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions may disqualify a candidate from becoming a firefighter. These may include conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and heart conditions. It is important for candidates to disclose any medical conditions they may have and to be prepared to undergo a medical evaluation as part of the hiring process.
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Lack of Educational Requirements: Many fire departments require candidates to have a high school diploma or equivalent, and some may require a college degree in a related field. If a candidate lacks the necessary educational requirements, they may not be able to become a firefighter. Check out the skills inventory checklist we made.What skills do firefighters need before applying? A firefighters skills inventory checklist
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Criminal History: Can I be a firefighter if I’ve done drugs? Some departments test, some done. Most fire departments have strict policies regarding criminal history and may disqualify candidates with certain types of criminal convictions. It is important for candidates to be honest about their criminal history and to understand that certain convictions, such as felonies, may disqualify them from becoming a firefighter.
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Can’t Swim: Some fire departments have swim tests for candidates. For example, a candidate may need to be to swim 4 lengths of an olympic sized pool. If a candidate cannot do this ( there isn’t even a time limit), they may not be able to become a firefighter.
There are tests that you can prepare for such as the swim test, and your physical fitness. If you are looking at ways to get in Firefighter shape, you should check out the book 100 Firehall Workouts.
The Top 5 Reasons you can’t become a firefighter
In conclusion, there are several reasons why someone may not be able to become a firefighter, including physical fitness, medical conditions, lack of educational requirements, criminal history, and the inability to swim. It is important for candidates to understand these requirements and to be prepared to meet them in order to pursue a career as a firefighter.
Want to see what firefighter fitness looks like? Check out 100 Firehall Workouts
