Pre-Service Firefighter Education and Training

Start Dates & Ontario Colleges Program Codes:
Fall Start (September): 0112

To Save Life, Property and Environment

Ever wonder what it’s like to drench down a blazing inferno? Of course you have – every kid dreams of becoming a firefighter when they grow up. But for some, the feeling never goes away

If that’s you, Confederation College’s IFSAC and PRO BOARD Accredited Pre-Service Firefighter Education and Training program will give you the knowledge and skills you need to pursue this demanding and rewarding career. The program provides well-rounded training for aspiring firefighters. You’ll learn basic fire science, fire suppression principles and practices, emergency patient care, fire prevention/public education and specialty modules such as low rope rescue and environmental hazards . Your in-class learning will be reinforced with field placements to give you hands-on experience – invaluable as you compete for positions after graduation.

Top Highlights

• Program developed and endorsed by the office of the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC), and the Office of Ontario Fire Marshall (OFM) in cooperation with the Thunder Bay Fire & Rescue Services (THFRS)
• Successful students may challenge the OFMEM NFPA 1001 FF I & II, NFPA 472 Awareness and OPS Level written and practical exams which include IFSCA and PRO BOARD Certifications
• Includes testing in simulated and controlled live fire training scenarios

VIEW Pre-Service Firefighter Education and Training Video Playlist

Program Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

1. demonstrate the culmination role performances expected in the following areas: fire suppression, community education and fire prevention, firefighter emergency patient care, environmental protection, and special rescue operations.
2. identify and use the personal and professional development resources/activities which promote growth and contribute to lifelong learning.
3. meet the ethical, legal and safety requirements required of professionals in the fire service.
4. use safe practices and techniques with fire department apparatus, tools and equipment.
5. communicate effectively using verbal, non-verbal, written, or electronic methods including recognized and appropriate fire service terminology.
6. interact with others in a variety of emergency and non-emergency situations with a manner that demonstrates confidence, professionalism, and sensitivity to other and to the situation.
7. demonstrate respect when communicating with various communities and their members.
8. use effective and appropriate problem-solving and decision-making skills in emergency and non-emergency situations.
9. work effectively with other members of the fire service team, pre-hospital emergency care providers, and other emergency service related groups to provide comprehensive service in emergency and non-emergency situations.

Graduates of this program go on to careers in professional firefighting, fire prevention and public education, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, private fire service and fire inspection. It is also good training for those considering a position as a volunteer firefighter. 

Please note that each hiring municipality or fire department has its own rigorous entrance standards including physical and other tests. It is highly recommended that you are familiar with the specific hiring and application requirements of the particular agency.

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