how long does cal fire training course

by Valentin Hand Jr. 9 min read

219 hours

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How long does it take to become a CAL FIRE firefighter?

It will generally take most people between 2 to 5 years to get a job as a professional firefighter (volunteer positions are usually much easier). There are numerous steps to prepare and a competitive and long hiring process to start a career in the fire service. California has even tougher odds than many other states.

Do you need fire academy for CAL FIRE?

CAL FIRE has retired the traditional CAL FIRE Basic Academy Certification and has updated the entry level seasonal hiring requirements. The CAL FIRE Application period is typically in November and hiring usually occurs between March and June, depending upon the year's fire and weather conditions.

How much does Cal Fire Academy cost?

CAL FIRE BASIC PROGRAM COSTS Enrollment fees, as set by the California State Legislature, are $46 per unit and are subject to change. Students will be responsible for the difference in enrollment fees if such changes are enacted by the Legislature. The total cost for the BWF academy is approximately $2,000 – $2,500.

Do you get paid during Cal Fire Academy?

School information The cost to attend CAL FIRE Academy is $150. When asked how they paid for their training, most reviewers responded, "My company paid for my training".

What is the cut off age for firefighter in California?

We do not have an age limit for applicants. It is very possible that two people the same age, whether 20 or 40, will perform very differently. It is up to each recruit, in conjunction with their medical physician, to determine what they are physically capable of doing.

Do you need EMT for CAL FIRE?

Which specific CAL FIRE Units require an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certificate? Each Unit decides whether it is required based on operational needs. Individuals are encouraged to get an EMT certificate in order to be competitive in the hiring process for most fire suppression classifications.

How much do firemen make?

about $50,850 annuallyHow much do firefighters get paid? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average firefighter makes about $50,850 annually or $24.45 per hour.

Is being a firefighter worth it?

Firefighting is an incredibly rewarding job that's truly worth it if you're willing to put in the time and effort. Though you will have to give up some much-valued time with your friends and family and put yourself at risk in dangerous situations, being a firefighter has plenty of benefits.

How many hours do firefighters work?

Full-time Firefighters work an average 42 hours per week and depending on their role and station posting they will work one of the following shift patterns: Shift Duty System – 2 days (9am - 6pm), 2 nights (6pm – 9am) followed by 4 periods of 24 hours off.

How hard is Cal Fire Academy?

This rigorous 219 hours of training is specifically for those seeking a seasonal firefighter job with CAL FIRE. The new 6-week format will include additional certifications, including SFT Low Angle Rope Rescue Operations (LARRO), NWCG Firefighter Type 1 S-131, Portable Pumps and Water Use S-211.

How much does CAL FIRE make an hour?

CAL Fire SalariesJob TitleSalaryFirefighter/EMT salaries - 4 salaries reported$16/hrFirefighter salaries - 2 salaries reported$20/hrFire Fighter/EMT salaries - 2 salaries reported$16/hrFirefighter salaries - 2 salaries reported$18/hr16 more rows

Is CAL FIRE a good career?

Working for CalFire is a safe and rewarding career. CalFire offers plenty of opportunity for advancement. The training is excellent and the equipment is always top of the line.

What is SFT in fire?

California State Fire Training (SFT) is the OSFM division that establishes, develops, and delivers standardized training and education for the California fire service. The State Fire Training website serves as a valuable resource and a one-stop shop for all things related to the State Fire Training. Please make sure to check back on this website ...

When will Fire Fighter 2 retire?

The 2013 Certification edition of Fire Fighter 1 , Fire Fighter 2, and Fire Fighter 2 Tenured Path retires on December 31, 2021. All application packets must be submitted and postmarked on or before December 31, 2021. No exceptions or extensions will be granted. Beginning January 1, 2022, all applicants must use the new 2019 edition of the Certification.

When does SFT end?

For any course ending on or after July 5, 2021, State Fire Training (SFT) will require the use of the newly updated Course Roster template that now collects information on a student's Employment Type. SFT will use the Employment Type data to gain insight on who uses the State Fire Training System and to steer new curriculum and program development.

When will rope rescue technician retire?

Rope Rescue Technician (2013) curriculum retires on December 31, 2021. This curriculum has been updated and replaced with Rope Rescue Technician (2017) to come into alignment with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards. All Registered Instructors and host agencies delivering the Rope Rescue Technician course should review the Rope Rescue Implementation Plan (PDF) to determine how this retirement impacts course delivery and instructor registration. Beginning January 1, 2022, only the Rope Rescue Technician (2017) edition will be available for course delivery.

Is Fire Investigator 1A a prerequisite?

The Fire Investigator 1A: Basic Fire Investigation Course Plan (PDF) has changed the “fire academy level training” requirement from a prerequisite to a corequisite. This allows students to complete the additional education requirements before or simultaneously with the Fire Investigator 1A courses of study.

Is SFT accredited?

Accredited facilities proctoring certification examinations are now accommodating multiple types of exam candidates ranging from Accredited Academy, Alternate Delivery, Upgrade, and Reciprocity candidates. SFT has published the Certification Exam Candidate Eligibility Information Bulletin to outline the exam eligibility requirements for each of the candidate types expounding on what is published in the State Fire Training Procedures Manual (January 2019).

How long does it take to get feedback from a fire instructor?

Requests may take up to 2 weeks to process and will be delivered in PDF format via email. Instructors who wish to see feedback on a regular basis are encouraged to instead provide their own class feedback survey.

How many students are required to be approved for SFT?

All courses with less than 5 students must be approved by SFT prior to delivery. More information can be found on the Course Enrollment Reminder bulletin.

Where is the SFT ID number on a CFSTES certificate?

NOTE: As of April 2017, all CFSTES course completion certificates and certification certificates now include your SFT ID number printed within the bottom right corner. If you have questions, contact the current Manager of Certification and Registration listed on the SFT Contact List (PDF).

Do you fill in the name of the training facility?

Fill-in the name of the "Training Facility" even if it is the same as the sponsor.

Can you complete a course evaluation on line?

Course Evaluation Form#N#Class evaluations can now be completed on-line via the Class Evaluation Form (PDF). Students will be required to list the class approval code, instructor name, date and course name therefore it is important to share this information with students prior to the course completion.

Location

If you cancel class 14 days prior to the first day of class, you will receive your full registration amount.

Cancellation Policy

If you cancel class 14 days prior to the first day of class, you will receive your full registration amount.

What is a firefighter academy?

Desirable firefighter candidates are physically prepared for the demands of the job as a firefighter. At the Academy, Recruits take part in a Physical Fitness Training Program designed to educate, inspire and train the Recruit to achieve and maintain an appropriate level of health and fitness for a long and fruitful career in the fire service, and throughout their personal life.

What do I need to become a Firefighter?

To be a firefighter, you will need to have graduated from high school, be at least 18 years of age and completed your Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certificate. In addition, some fire departments want the candidate to have taken several college units prior to applying for the firefighter’s exam. Others may require a Certificate of Completion of California’s Firefighter 1 or a Certificate verifying completion of a California Sate Fire Marshal’s Accredited Regional Fire Academy. Our Academy provides a Certificate verifying completion of a California Sate Fire Marshal’s Accredited Regional Fire Academy.

How difficult is the physical training portion of the academy?

Therefore, the physical training program will progress to a similar level of physical challenge.

What does the Testing Phase consist of?

This includes a written exam, informal interview, and physical agility test.

What is the advantage of the Basic Firefighter I Academy?

The Basic Firefighter I Academy will give you an advantage over other applicants because you will not only have the certificates needed to apply for a Firefighter position , but you will also have the hands-on fire ground training many other applicants may lack.

What do you need to be a firefighter in ARC?

Recruits in the ARC Basic Firefighter I Academy take part in manipulative and technical training in basic concepts of fire department organization , ropes, knots and hitches, hose and hose handling, ladder evolutions, wildland fires, fire investigation, fire prevention , salvage operations, fire department apparatus, tools and equipment, breathing apparatus, extinguishers, personal protective equipment, communications, swift water rescue, and hazardous materials . The Fire Academy will also teach Recruits how to prepare for a career in the fire service through resume building workshops and mock oral interview panels.

How long does physical training last at the Academy?

For the Academy recruit, physical training occurs daily at 0700 and lasts for 60 minutes. Keep in mind that following physical training the remainder of the day will likely require physically demanding drill ground activities.

How long does it take to become a firefighter in San Diego?

It depends on the specific requirements of each jurisdiction. San Diego, for example, provides all required certifications through a 16-week program, while entry-level firefighters in other towns may begin with just a high school diploma and a successful round of testing.

How long does it take to get a fire tech certificate in Sierra?

Designed for municipal and forest fire fighters, fire inspectors, and fire investigators, Sierra's 64.5-credit fire technology certificate takes two years, or four terms, to complete. In addition to general education requirements, the program educates students in fire suppression and prevention, emergency medical services, ethics, communication, and understanding of the fire service industry.

How old do you have to be to be a firefighter in California?

For example, firefighters in San Bernardino or San Diego may apply at 18 years of age, while candidates in San Francisco must be 20 and those in Burbank must be 21.

What are the areas of firefighting training?

Some departments, particularly in Southern California, offer training for their firefighters in areas like rescue awareness, fire protection organization, wildland firefighting, hazardous materials, and incident command system.

Why do firefighters stay informed of fires?

In a state where wildfires rage annually, local firefighters may stay informed about threats due to weather conditions or hazardous materials they may need to handle . The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection and the Office of the State Fire Marshal provide a wealth of resources for firefighters to stay up to date on current threats.

What are the requirements to become a firefighter in California?

Firefighters in California must generally complete written and oral examinations, along with a physical examination. Candidates in San Francisco must pass the NTN's FireTeam test, with mechanical, reading, and math components. Other departments run their own, similar tests.

What are the physical requirements for firefighter certification in California?

Firefighters in California are expected to be in good physical condition. Most departments require candidates to pass a physical examination, such as the NTN's CPAT, which includes challenges like ladder raise and extension , forcible entry , and hose drag.

Location

If you cancel class 14 days prior to the first day of class, you will receive your full registration amount.

Cancellation Policy

If you cancel class 14 days prior to the first day of class, you will receive your full registration amount.

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How to Request & Schedule A Course

  1. Complete the Request for Course Schedulingform (either PDF or MS Word)
  2. Verify that your class criterion meets the prerequisites found in the course plan or the Course Information & Required Materials manual (PDF). This is important because some classes require site ac...
  3. Submit. There are a few ways to submit your class request. Choose from either email, U.S. m…
  1. Complete the Request for Course Schedulingform (either PDF or MS Word)
  2. Verify that your class criterion meets the prerequisites found in the course plan or the Course Information & Required Materials manual (PDF). This is important because some classes require site ac...
  3. Submit. There are a few ways to submit your class request. Choose from either email, U.S. mail, or in-person. Email is the preferred method and all emailed requests can be delivered to the Course S...

Enrollment

  • The Registered Instructor, in conjunction with the host agency, shall: 1. Verify student eligibility and prerequisites for course enrollment 2. Ensure the maximum student limit for the course is not exceeded 3. Ensure the appropriate instructor-to-student ratio 4. Ensure the safety of all students participating in the course 5. Ensure that absenteeism and tardiness does not exceed 10% of th…
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Returning A Course

  • Beginning January 1, 2019, SFT no longer utilizes the green Scantron forms to collect student roster information. Instead, Instructors now collect student roster information by using the SFT Course Roster Template (Excel) and submit it through the SFT User Portal. Course credit will only be awarded to participants being reported with their assigned State Fire Training Identificati…
See more on osfm.fire.ca.gov

Course Feedback

  • Course Evaluation Form Class evaluations can now be completed on-line via the Class Evaluation Form (PDF). Students will be required to list the class approval code, instructor name, date and course name therefore it is important to share this information with students prior to the course completion. Although class feedback is submitted directly to State Fire Training, Primary and Se…
See more on osfm.fire.ca.gov

Other Information

  • What is an SFT ID Number Every new user account in the SFT computerized records management system is issued a unique 8-digit number called an SFT ID number. This SFT ID number is required for reporting course completion information and is also required anytime an applicant applies for certification or an instructor is requesting to teach a course. SFT no longer accepts or uses full s…
See more on osfm.fire.ca.gov