How To Become A Firefighter

[@typotter8785]

A year ago, a senior in high school I watched this video on how to become a firefighter. Fast forward a year later and I just got hired on full time on a good department at 18. This last year was the hardest year of my life, high school, Emt school, Entry level and Firefighter 1, a job, trainings and running calls on 2 different volunteer departments. All this was at the same time but the hard work paid off and I now wake up everyday excited to go to work in my dream career.

[@p.bi1179]

Awesome man!! I'm planning on doing the same. Can you explain how each step of the process was? I would really appreciate it.

[@u4ia612]

watching this as a senior in highschool too, sounds like a lot of work but man id be happy knowing im saving lives!

[@DeAnavarr]

Hey is there any way I could contact you? I’m trying to follow the same path right now, currently 17

[@typotter8785]

@@DeAnavarr Yes man of course, what would be a good way to contact you?

[@MoneyBagSmitty]

Man I’m in the same situation any way I can contact you as-well to get pointers and a better understanding?

[@fullsendnetwork2909]

You’re helping out a lot of future firefighters including myself man. Thanks a lot!! Really appreciate all the tips and advice!!

[@mike_pertz]

Hey Harley, thank you for the kind words! I'm glad you find it helpful! I'm looking forward to making more videos so I hope you find those just as helpful!

[@legenwaitforitdary3508]

Hey, are u a firefighter yet ??

[@NoobGaming-zv5yi]

How’s it going

[@fullsendnetwork2909]

I’ve got a conditional offer and am In The process of landing a job with my dream department! Hopefully all goes well

[@legenwaitforitdary3508]

@@fullsendnetwork2909 congratulations, I wish u the best

[@alexr3609]

I’ve been thinking about becoming a firefighter after being lost for about 6 years after I graduated. Fortunately I’ve been able to stay out of Trouble & stay in shape but I allowed adversity to keep me from realizing my potential & im finally starting to realize it. This will be a challenge but I think I’m up for it now!

[@DMVCURLY]

I believe in you🫂💓

[@cyruzhrl339]

how you been?

[@notGlennbino]

I felt this, brother. You will make it

[@LDT2001]

you can do it, never give up on anything

[@FluffyDomo]

Any update brother? I really resonated with what you said about being lost

[@itsjustabbiexxx3049]

I’m 16 and I didn’t know what I wanted to do in life. Something happened and I felt draw to firefighting. I don’t know where to start, what to do in college or anything but this video really helped

[@DapperSapper515]

@@AJxxxxxxxx you are completely delusional on all of that. I'm active duty Army, and I'll tell you that the Guard deploys significantly more than active. And become a pilot? You do realize that in the Army, she would need to become a warrant, right? You don't just join and become a warrant - that takes years. Not to mention, pilots do so much training and field probs, she'd be more than just her "weekend warrior." If she's joining the Army and wants to be a firefighter, why not pick the firefighting MOS? It gives you a nationally recognized certification so she wouldn't even need to go to a fire academy. Just apply/take the civil service, interview, pass all the phases, and she's hired.... I get you're trying to give advice. But stick to the Marines, pal. Don't try to give her advice about the Army that simply isn't true and has a lot of holes within it...

[@DapperSapper515]

Join the Army and shoot for the 12M MOS. It's firefighting. Do it in the reserves. Once you pass basic and AIT, you get a nationally recognized certification. It makes you a certified EMT/EMS. You get your firefighting certification, and one out of two years done for paramedic. You won't have to go to a fire academy. Just apply/take the civil service, pass the tests, interview, get hired - you're welcome.

[@DapperSapper515]

Also, read my comment I posted for AJ. What he told you is so inaccurate, I don't even know what to say. He's a Marine and talking out of his a**! I'm in the Army and gave you the proper information regarding it. Him telling you to join the Coast Guard - good luck. You don't just go to a recruiter to join the Coast Guard. You call them, they look at your background, they interview you - if they like you, you take a series of tests, and do one more final interview. If you pass everything, you take the ASVAB and they finally allow you to join the Coast Guard (assuming you pass MEPS). Not to mention, the Coast Guard hasn't given a single waiver in nearly 10 years.... The reason the Coast Guard isn't just your original "go to the recruiter and enlist" is because they aren't DOD. They're DHS. However, they work through the DOD. So they have their own process to join compared to the other branches! And they don't deploy because they're literally the COAST Guard!... They protect our homeland.... Hence why they're part of the Department of HOMELAND Security, and NOT part of the Department of Defense! This guy gave you so much inaccurate information, it isn't even funny. I'm sorry he got your hopes up from anything in which he said because what he said is more than wrong. The only accurate thing he said is the Coast Guard doesn't deploy!..... 😂

[@grantwalter2243]

@@AJxxxxxxxx bro fuck the military. You cant even do reserves or guard if you have asthma or diabetes

[@AJxxxxxxxx]

@@grantwalter2243 Why the fuck would we want someone with asthma or diabetes? People think that being in a firefight just requires you to pull a trigger and that’s it, that’s a complete myth, we do a lot of team maneuver under fire strategy’s to close the distance on our enemy and set our selfs up for superior positioning on the battlefield, we want athletes that could run for days with heavy gear and loads on them, your literally a liability to your own squad and you could badly fuck over your fire team and get them killed, your fire team is literally only as strong as their weakest link Just because you tried doing reserves doesn’t mean we are going to lower our standards for you, reserves doesn’t mean the 2nd best force, and believe it or not but the National guard still deploys, I think you have a lot of misconceptions about what the reserves are for and what the guard does

[@neurflerat2693]

Here in Sweden we have a 2 year "firefighter education" called SMO. Once you've completed it you're done and can work as a full time firefighter. I finish my education June 10th and already got a job starting June 11th

[@stephenjake2021]

Wish we had a setup like that here in the states. Every state is different for their process and some requirements are different, and it makes it very difficult to get on. I hope all of this schooling and working as an emt pays off

[@user-xo2th7xo4w]

That’s dope!

[@bonZoowe]

My man

[@AkumaNuMigite]

@@stephenjake2021 wish you best of luck!

[@maxwelladzidogah7124]

How can I apply for firefighter Sweden. Please help me

[@benjamindavila1300]

I was freshly out of high school in 2014 and went to the local fire academy in my hometown in New Mexico . Whenever I got there the firefighters I ran into were very rude when I asked them what I had to do in order to get into the fire service. Their response to me was “Oh you’d never be able to do this, this costs thousands of dollars” man as a kid that shut me down and didn’t want anything to do with the fire service after that. Went off , got my CDL and did fairly well. Now almost ten years later I got accepted in with a Fire Department as a volunteer for now. (in a different county) going to school for my EMT and had to struggle that much because I didn’t have any guidance. Wish I would’ve found this page sooner. I’ll still be watching his videos. Just a little sad story I thought I’d share for those who do run into those “rude” firefighters as he mentioned in the video. I’m 27 now. Don’t give up

[@Javi_quinty]

I’m 20 years old. Graduated in 2019 and still haven’t figured out what to do and tbh being the fire academy is kind of convincing me to join

[@ChromeCrusader-YT]

Same exact situation for me

[@markwoodall3017]

Bro same

[@ffupa3464]

Same here

[@omgzae8021]

where are you now in your progress to being a firefigjter

[@ssjliano9971]

Same here I went to college for a bit but idk what to major in so I’m considering this now ima start emt schooling soon

[@patrickburton1401]

I have always been interested in public safety and mental health, but I’ve never been able to do well in school due to my ADHD. I know I would do well as a firefighter or an EMT. All I want is to help my community.

[@reliablethreat23]

Go for it! Don't let anyone or anything stop you! You can do it!

[@grantwalter2243]

I have adhd and we are halfway through my 16 week course. I have an 80 and am currently procrastinating a test... 😐. Its not that bad. Fire school will be immensely easy relative to EMT with ADHD standards

[@RealMTBAddict]

I am 40 and have ADD as well. Not as bad as when I was a teenager thankfully.

[@SeanStewart88]

I’m 36 years old and being a firefighter has always been on my mind. Taking the fitness test and written to get into the academy tomorrow, this would be a volunteer position. I figured this would be a great way to see if this is the career for me.

[@Nucleotide5313]

I’m not even wanting to be a Firefighter and not even American, I just like listening to career advice while working. Enjoying the videos

[@corneliousseuss8948]

When I was a child I had two dreams, to become an astronaut or a firefighter. As I get older, now 18 I realize the stars are not my thing. However I feel more drawn than ever to firefighting. I understand it will be harder as I am a female but I got drive. Thank you for the advice.

[@etwanican_7439]

Totally doable as a woman! I have a friend from high school who became one at around 19 I think in the air force though

[@ellowynchang9232]

Yeah I’ve been wanting to be a firefighter but I still have a few years left

[@kristianmillano158]

Sir, I just wanted to say thank you for your effort and posting videos frequently, it helps a lot

[@mike_pertz]

Hey Kristian, thanks for the kind words! I'm glad you find them helpful!

[@franciscomagallanes622]

First of all thank you for all the information. Honest question here, is 37 years old too old to pursue this career?

[@Jay-kh4sz]

@@franciscomagallanes622never too old for anything!

[@RichyRich9120]

Finally found a department to call home. I became a recruit last night at my local volunteer department. Tuesday is my first class of the 20 hours I need to get done. You have helped me get to this point and I cannot thank you enough. I'm working on my physical fitness as well in this process. I can't wait to see what the future holds.

[@andfletch5336]

I’m a combat medic in the Army National guard in California,18 years old, and stumbled across your page for the first time and it is the best KZbin channel for firefighting information I have found to this date, what’s even better is your website, keep it up man I’ll be recommending you to my friends

[@mike_pertz]

Thanks man, I appreciate the support!

[@djsinstrumentalbeatshardpr5885]

I really like how you went into details with the information because no other youtuber man/women has went into details like you did.

[@mr.ligertiger]

I’m working on being a firefighter. I was going to be a marine, but a lovely schizophrenia diagnosis stole that from me. Honestly though, this career seems like it’ll make me happier.

[@totothedog8830]

"Not gonna be quick and not gonna be easy" cool this is the video I was looking for

[@Chasqui4021]

Managed a spot on my local volunteer department. Little but it’s something where I can get training. I’ll have to wait a bit because I’m currently 5mos pregnant but that won’t stop me from doing all the learning I can do. Thanks for providing the information on what to expect when on track to become a firefighter 👍

[@natedeordio4010]

Hey man, I have been following your videos for over a year, I just wanted to say thank you! I used your videos for test and interview preparation and I just got the call I've been hired for recruit school March 1st. Thanks again and I'll definitely continue supporting the channel!

[@mike_pertz]

Congratulations Nate! That's awesome, good luck in March!

[@ErikFolgar]

How did it go 2 days ago?

[@natedeordio4010]

@@ErikFolgar Good! Long days but way more than worth it. Looking at September for graduation.

[@themadhatter227]

Congratulations, Nate! It's been a year... Would be interested to hear how things are going for you at this point. Stay motivated brother! 💪😎🇺🇲

[@natedeordio4010]

@@themadhatter227 I graduated at the top of my class and received an award in honor of a fallen member of our department. Been out in the field for six months and loving every day!

[@Chris874]

im 18 and just got hired at my cities department thanks to you! I start academy june 8th thank you so much man

[@xoxodubose]

EMT orientation scheduled for November. Super excited for this journey and so thankful for this channel!!! Thanks so much!!!😁

[@Ismunoz]

Watched your interview prep videos and FF content. I aced my first ever FF interview, got offered a job and just finished my first probie tour today. Thanks for everything you do.

[@mike_pertz]

Congratulations man!

[@mschrage618]

Checking this out while trying to make the switch from LE to FD. 3 years on with a big city agency, and a friend at my rural hometown FD reached out and invited me to test. working 8 days a month, making more than I do now, and I still get to help people? I figured it’s worth a shot lol

[@th3od3n86]

I've always felt some strange pull into the firefighting service. I'm currently in the Minnesota Army NG and I've always had a desire to help people. I've always wanted to do more full time and the NG was always a place I planned to start. I'm currently 20 years old and this video was extremely helpful, thank you!

[@jaredkerr7224]

Hey Mike, I really appreciate all the work you put in to your videos and volunteering your time to help educate prospective firefighters. I’m currently an applicant for my local volunteer fire department and I’ve learned a lot from your videos. Thanks for all your help

[@shenandoahmike3915]

Good post my friend,there is one more option you could add to your list. I have been a military firefighter as well as a retired civilian firefighter for over 35 years. If a kid is willing to give the Air Force four years ,the firefighting training will give them almost every one of the criteria you have mentioned,you get medical(EMT), certified Haz Mat tec level, confined space cert, Firefighter 1 and 2, Crash Fire Rescue, specialty training you can not imagine, but most of all you get physically challenged, master social skills of being in a firefighting position . And when you are done you have four years practical experience of successfully performing the job. That my friend is priceless when looking for a position.

[@chloemx7534]

I have been at my fire station since I was 13 years old, now 16 years old and just waiting until I am 18 to actually go fight fires since right now as a cadet we are just allowed to train as a firefighter but not go in actual fires. I was able to get in a year early as normally you need to be 14 years old, I have never regretted being a cadet since you get to meet all of the firefighters and work with some of them

[@johnmarston459]

Mike I want to thank you so much for your guides and videos. I’m a firemedic taking a big city exam in NE Ohio next month

[@mike_pertz]

Hey John, thanks for the kind words! That's awesome man, good luck and let me know how it goes!

[@jacknorris8035]

It’s been 2 years, how did it go?

[@johnpatros9650]

Dude thank you so much. This was extremely helpful and straight forward!

[@kierancampbell9236]

I’m 19 and so excited to begin the process

[@darinrasmussen5828]

I will have my Firefighter 1 and EMT certificate at the end of the year but I'm a little worried because everyone tells me I NEED to be a paramedic to even get hired

[@mike_pertz]

It just depends on where you apply. Some places will require it and others will not. Either way it will help no matter what. I would highly recommend getting a medic card as well.

[@chrisstewart4932]

July 2022 I applied to my first dept. Yesterday 1/17/2024 I received my final offer at that dept and will be starting academy in Feb. Thanks for the helpful videos Mike!

[@leektastic3843]

I am trying to become one myself and though some people I told said I wouldn't be able to but I'm determined. I really appreciate you making these videos.

[@thegentleman9929]

Really great advice, I'm Irish but would love to do voluntary fire service for few years in the US. I'm EMT qualified

[@idallover303]

Thanks Mike! This is an amazingly well spoken and helpful video. Good Job.

[@lanova13]

Been really thinking about becoming a firefighter my step dad is a firefighter my uncle is a firefighter guess it’s time to join the family business.

[@thebestdadvice]

Are there age restrictions? I’m currently 28, and I’ve been looking for something fulfilling a long time. Becoming a fire fighter has been something that frequently pops in my mind.

[@RealMTBAddict]

Nope

[@DIV1NE_ACE]

I’m 17 and just graduated high school and I honestly don’t know what I wanna do with my life but I’ve been watching things about firefighters and this is very interesting to me

[@MadDogRyan]

When I was in highschool we had a program at the tech center to become fire fighters but I couldn't pass the physical exam to start the program but now I'm finally consistently getting in shape and will probably try again to become a fire fighter I have a hero complex (my body moves without thinking when it comes to helping/ saving people)

[@bronsongonzales4241]

I’m 17 years old and Im very interested into being a fire fighter. It’s my dream job. Thank you so much this helped out a lot thank you.

[@drdirtymcfly2029]

I’m 20 and I just signed up for public safety class at my local community college. By the time I’m deciding where to apply I’ll already have a bachelors degree and they help you get your emt certification and fire card. This route gives me a lot of options for the future.

[@airborntruck6263]

So I was talking to my mom about me being a firefighter and my brother comes in and said "good luck finding a place wanting to hire you" and well I know that it ain't easy. He made it sound like it was impossible and it kinda discouraged me. But this video made me feel better. I was expecting it to be a long hard thing to get in. I never thought it as easy. But I really want to get into being a firefighter. Been thinking about it for awhile.

[@TheArmedNurse]

Follow your dreams!! Don't allow competition to crush them. Once you are certified, you ARE a firefighter, even if it takes you time to find a job.

[@airborntruck6263]

@@TheArmedNurse Thank you. 😎

[@queeniemoonwalker]

hows it going? did things work out alright?

[@airborntruck6263]

@musicalliminality I did follow a different path, but it was not a big deal. It may still happen in the future

[@queeniemoonwalker]

@@airborntruck6263 Thank you for your response. And thats great to hear. I wish you luck in the future then, have a great life man

[@redalpha6373]

I’m 17 going into senior year and I’m motivated to get on my grind and start early to become a firefighter

[@themadhatter227]

I would love to be a firefighter. I miss the Marines like crazy, and the camaraderie. Being a part of something bigger than me, and doing it as a team or family. I miss the rank structure system. I miss having a goal, and the ability to fight for that goal, and achieve that goal, and earn promotions. I miss being a leader, and taking care of my own. My body is banged up, and I know I could be in fit shape and perform my duties. But I know my body would scream at me, cuz I'm 41, and already lived a hard life. I miss the fast pace, and just being badass. I miss knowing that I'm helping people. It's the most honorable thing you can do, is save a life. I wish someone that was a firefighter could tell me I'm good enough to try, and probably make it. I know the Marines wouldn't be able to take me back anymore. So I assume a firefighting department probably wouldn't either. Good luck to all the young bucks. You have young bodies made of rubber on your side right now. When you live a hard life, your gonna have a hard body, but once you stop moving, the aches start setting in, and you can't ever slow down or it will get worse. You'll find out, when you stop. So never stop! I liked and subscribed. I quit and deleted FB. I have other social medias I don't use, and don't have installed on my devices. I do have one app that has chat rooms. It's on the Discord app. And if I did ever become a fighter fighter I would absolutely delete that as well. It's with the Vet TV guy's whom I met on FB! So I just started using that app, and talk to other veterans, and active duty members... Plus foreign military service actives, and veterans. Reason I mention this, is because I'm going to share this in the general chat room for others to see it, and know about the option to become a fire fighter, and get the info here. They're a rough around the edges crowd, but we also know how to turn on the professional switch and be serious. If any of them come over here. You never know, they may blend in, or they may be hyperactive... But professional. 💪😎🇺🇲

[@queeniemoonwalker]

hey, we dont know each other but God bless you. thank you for your service. i pray you find your calling to do whatever it is you want or need to do. im much younger than you (im 16) and your words inspire me. ive had it rough the past few months and i just want to save lives, and make a mark in this world. make my mom proud. help the community. thank you stranger and i hope everything works out, one way or the other.

[@jamesjames5236]

I’m 18, and I believe being a firefighter is my true calling, I’ve become so passionate about the job in such little time. Unfortunately I missed the fire exams in my area, and now I might have to wait 2-4 years. It feels like my dreams just got crushed . Any suggestions on what I should do in the meantime ? 2-4 years feels like forever. I really wanted to start asap

[@gmoney7261]

work and focus on self improvement. Your only 18 and will be 20 years old in 2 years. That seems like a better age to be a firefighter anyway. I am 19 and just found that this job is what I want to do. It takes time, if it is meant to be it will be.

[@glambo02]

I appreciate the advice man!

[@mike_pertz]

You bet!

[@udaymuhammad2851]

Thank you for these videos keep it up🙏🏾

[@mike_pertz]

Glad you like them!

[@jimmythetulip4313]

Great videos. I think that there should be videos like this but for volunteer firefighting. It is a big thing up here in Canada.

[@mike_pertz]

thank you!

[@Stephano_v_Bove__]

Excellent info! Thanks so much! This is giving even more rich food for thinking/planning. You have been so helpful!

[@finneganhardenbergh7446]

Went to college and graduated with a bachelor’s degree, and now I’m not sure if what I studied is what I want to do, firefighting has been something floating around my mind for the past couple of years but never committed to anything, but now I’m look at it again

[@robblovre8258]

Top notch job Mike! Your videos are very informative and I encourage my students who are interested in being firefighters to watch them.

[@patrickrodriguez320]

My biggest concern is that I have moderate asthma and use an inhaler and have been told both yes and no from people everywhere I've looked for answers. I know for a fact that I can do the job and deal with smoke and physical exertion as long as I use my medication which is a single dose daily. My condition is very well managed and i only ever run into trouble if i go off the medication for days at a time. The asthma has also greatly improved after a 75lb weight loss, which is also not really a measurable factor from a medical standpoint. Im really determined that I'll find a way somehow or somewhere even if I have to be a volunteer firefighter and can't be a career firefighter. I used to work for a small township with a volunteer fire department and the chief told me all I had to do was pass a physical test and have a drivers license. I really want to do this thing bad, but the path is so unclear for someone like me. Anyones advice would be great

[@colbytucker2178]

I’m 14 I plan on going into medicine but I would love to volunteer as a firefighter during college

[@abingham3747]

Pretty simple really, get ur medic and you'll literally have departments coming to you. I got a career fire job just weeks after I got my medic. My wife got her medic and applied for a part-time fire job and walked out with a full-time offer. We're in Southwest Ohio. Wanna be a firefighter, get ur medic.

[@chris.davidoff]

Thank you for this! I got my EMT cert, CPAT and a college degree. I interviewed once so far and blew it, but it was a learning experience! I'm excited to keep learning and try again. Your videos help a lot! I'm also going to look for volunteer departments near me. I do have a question.. Given the pandemic, is it taboo for me to knock on a station's door and ask questions?

[@mike_pertz]

That's awesome, good for you for keeping at it! As for your question, no it should be fine, they may have a "no visitors" policy right now, but that shouldn't keep someone from at least speaking with you about the department and how to get started

[@chris.davidoff]

@@mike_pertz Thanks for the heads up! That sounds great in that case

[@ronthemogul]

What did you do wrong?

[@mclovinlife4018]

What did you do that “blew it” for you?

[@chris.davidoff]

@@mclovinlife4018 went on a weird tangent about circuit boards. Lol. Stupid i know

[@johnlucascalero4744]

I'm coming in with zero fire experience but I'm joining the navy as a damage controlman basically the ships firefighter, so do I still have to join firefighter volunteer events?

[@zacharybelzer4848]

thank you so much!!

[@someonerandom1291]

Hi. I'm 13, female, live in Arkansas, and want to become a firefighter when I'm older. I love watching your videos to learn more about becoming a first responder. I hope you don't mind if I ask some questions. 1) I'm 5 foot 3 inches and I don't think I'm going to get any taller. Is that a problem? 2) I'm working on being more healthy and fit, do you have any recommendations? 3) What can I do while I'm in school to help me get more familiar and be prepared for the job? I already plan to take personal fitness, digital health, foundations of health care, medical terminology, EMS, and EMT class, and get a health internship while in high school. 4) I have femur anteversion and I might be getting surgery to fix it soon. Will that hurt my chances of becoming a firefighter? 5) I also have Raynaud syndrome, but it's getting better with time, is that a problem? 6) I don't fully understand what is and what's the process of becoming a Firefighter 1 and Firefighter 2. Could you explain? 7) Should I go to college for a fire sciences degree? If you can't answer the questions, it's fine. Thanks!

[@mike_pertz]

Hi Someone Random, good questions, I'll answer some here and I'll point you to some other views on the channel that answer your quesitons. 1. No problem 2. Yes, I'll address this in a future video. 3. Get an EMT certification ASAP, start getting experience at a volunteer department. 4. I'm not that familiar with femur anteversion, but assuming you're able to pass physical and medical exams I don't see why it would keep you from firefighting. 5. same as #4 6. FF1 and FF2 are just certifications. Most community colleges will offer the classes and any fire academy should train you to at least the level of a FF1. 7. No, here's a video on college degrees: kzbin.info/www/bejne/e2XXpGONbt2sjJo and kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHOzaH5-qMyql9k

[@someonerandom1291]

@@mike_pertz thank you so much! Love your vids!

[@stefo77]

17, I'm planning on being a firefighter and working on my business on thе free days

[@samjames8860]

Hi! I'm 14, and I'm thinking about this because I really really wanna do it, I've watched so many videos and I have a workout plan, what would you recommend I do? Like are there any programs or ways I can prepare myself for all this?

[@jen1543]

yo same

[@mattv930]

Don’t GET FAT AT ALL and work on getting CERT’S work at being a mechanic 👨‍🔧 help your dad work on a car etc 🚗 work on driving test 🚗

[@karishmakansal5582]

drop the workouttt

[@austinhursala7554]

You should definitely look into jr./cadet firefighting programs. I live in Tucson and the Tucson fire department hold one every summer

[@chloemx7534]

Look for a jr/cadet group at your fire station. Here we have one and I have been in it for 3 years now, currently 16 years old and hoping we can start training again. During covid it got cancelled sadly but I was able to still help out the firefighters at a house fire near my home. Not actually go in the fire but to help get them some water bottles, keep everyone calm and take care of the patients until the paramedics arrived

[@Swi1ifty]

Getting my full accredited diploma on penn foster hopefully be done in 6 months Im just nervous about them being concerned about me dropping out im 20 dropped out cause I hated the idea of school thought it was pointless wanted to be a diesel mechanic at the time so I dropped out got more hours at loves n got to l3 got tired of them lying to me abt moving me to apprentice n got a new job with a set schedule Monday through Friday 2:45-11 pm another concern is I went to rehab in freshman year nothing serious only weed and alc dropped that fast tho got through rehab fast so im wishing if it does show up my councilor said that I was determined im from il weeds legal now so thats another thing I dropped everything I drink here n there on special occasions but other than that im clean n tryna better myself

[@jvionsmith3619]

Thanks for the video really helps out knowing this info especially for people interested in becoming a firefighter like me but keep up the good work 👍🏾

[@mike_pertz]

Glad I could help!

[@Miawitmyself]

Thank you seriously thank you, God bless you ❤️

[@BonsileDlamini-u4j]

Thanks for the information

[@ave8596]

Thank you a lot. This video helps. And I will subscribe and watch more videos. This means a lot to me. I really appreciate this very important and useful video.

[@bluesubaru7338]

High schoolers should also join a Fire and EMS Explorers program, they allow you to have a better chance of getting a firefighting job and give you knowledge that will help greatly.

[@3rikhndez]

I’m 21 years old and I Graduated in 2020 and still haven’t figured out what to do but I think I’m down to joining the fire academy

[@dagoatunleashed5926]

I’m up next..🚒🙏🏾

[@deanha7380]

Thank u for sharing precious information! From south korea fireman

[@wxvyd9653]

Can you make a video on what gear you keep on you as a firefighter?

[@mike_pertz]

Is this what you're looking for?....kzbin.info/www/bejne/gqK3nIqDfq-db5o Or did you have something else in mind?

[@david09017]

Mike, your video helped me on knowing how and what steps to take to become a firefighter. I always wanted to help people some how and I was thinking becoming a nurse but I thought to my self that becoming a fire fighter is much easier for me because i don't have to study a lot and most I need is to be in good shape and that's what I usually work on. Also I have a lot of questions about this job it would really helpful if I would get to know u in person. If it's even possible.

[@Wisterial-]

I’m 15 and I figured I should get a head start, I’m taking the GED when I’m 16 so I could get a head start on the physical aspect of becoming a firefighter, and also so I can get my EMT certificate early as well and start fire academy, I am a little worried about the vision requirements since I have glasses

[@axelgonzalez9536]

Thank you for this video, I really wanna be a firefighter but I didn't knew how to start with

[@chaldeanking]

Same bro. It’s been 2 years, what you end up doing

[@esilva8349]

This video helped so much. Honestly I feel silly not knowing to type volunteer fire departments near me into Google. Of course Google knows everything. Luckily I have a handful near me, one down the street. Going there in a few days to hand in my forms to become a volunteer/start the process anyway. Thankfully my local department has a very helpful website as well. Looking forward to this new career path.

[@torresvlogs1589]

Great info ! I just started to volunteer last week hopefully everything goes well for me

[@marcel8152]

Really appreciate all of this content. I have been watching/taking notes on all of your videos now for the past few weeks and just have a question about the educational aspect of becoming a firefighter. Maybe it is slightly different here in Canada, but from what I understand most departments want you to have your NFPA 1001: Firefighter I & II prior to applying for probationary postings. Considering this was not mentioned in your video, I am starting to wonder if this is actually needed. Otherwise, I am sure it would only benefit my resume anyways. I was going to begin schooling for my I & II shortly, and was wondering if you could give any insight/is this something you would recommend. Thanks again for all the great content, I will forever smash the like button, and remain a loyal subscriber to your channel!

[@victor-th4qs]

I do recommend Wildland firefighting.

[@orion.the.explorer]

In the California Conservation Corps, I can join a normal crew they have and then be transfer to a fire crew. That process only takes 3 months, no college or high school diploma/ged with no experience at all. Then boom, wildland firefighter

[@lilbkm749]

I have no experience I just applied to Fairfax county and prince Williams county and my application got approved I’m 19 hopefully everything goes well 🙏

[@lilbkm749]

I’ve been watching your videos for months and honest to god it’s like a cheat code

[@SimienHill]

Is it possible for someone to get into this career at 30? Assuming they’re in great shape etc

[@SCREEVER333]

This was EXTREMELY helpful. Thank you man.

[@Shooter-we4jn]

This video really helped me out a lot I was really confused but this video opened my mind up on the requirements and the many things you need to have thanks A lot man I appreciate it!!!

[@iarreolav]

Being a firefighter sounds cool.

[@ZalisPlayz]

What should I do. I'm a 23 year old Army veteran. With no prior experience in fire services. I genuinely want to make a career in this. How can I do this with no schooling or experience

[@amyJ244]

Does the Fire Academy give you your EMT and EMS? Or do you have to undergo a certain different procedure in getting those two certificates?

[@chloemx7534]

You need to undergo another/ different procedure to get those certificates

[@TheArmedNurse]

EMT certification is more often than not a prerequisite for fire academy. Some areas don't require it to attend the academy but it is not uncommon for candidates to be required to have EMT-B prior to being admitted.

[@jasonproctor9896]

It's different in every state. Some states give you EMT in their academy. You just have to research on the internet for the department that you want to apply for. More than likely if it's required by your department it will be a pre-requisite. But there is departments that will pay for you to to after the academy is over

[@jasonproctor9896]

@@chloemx7534 that's not true, it all depends on where you live. Every state, even every city or town is different

[@geebee6010]

Depends on your department. Here in PA, I know Philadelphia does, Pittsburgh EMS is separate from Fire.

[@youngforeverlastingyfl1832]

So many steps. I become I wildlife firefighter in 2 weeks. Seems like it's going to take 2 or 3 years for structural 😂 but I'm up for the challenge

[@mike_pertz]

You got this! That's exactly how my brother in law started too!

[@leonardoeudave3047]

How bro?

[@geebee6010]

Here in Pennsylvania anyone can volunteer it's more wide open then it's ever been. As for the big city career departments like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, everything you said pretty much applies to getting in. They don't care about you volunteer experience and EMS certs though. I want to get back into volunteering in the meantime but i have to find the right job so I can go attend fire school and get my Fire 1.

[@eliasconradalvarez8048]

I’m 25 I need this training for life I just want to drive please keep me up post

[@adamrobles513]

Great video man thanks

[@mauriciodiaz1310]

I was convicted of a felony 7 years ago and was on a firefighter hand crew in 2018 fighting fire initials attack for firestorm wild land fire suppression out of chico ca. So felonies do not hold u back from being a fire fighter. Maybe for cal fire but not for hand crews

[@Gdfsandoz]

So you don't really need any experience to get on volunteer crew?

[@aartsy5270]

Hey, I am currently in grade 10 and choosing my courses for grade 11 next year. My dream has always been to be a firefighter, and in that I want to make sure I am ahead of the game. Is there any courses or things I should be taught in high school that will benefit me for future success in firefighting. Another point I must add is that on top of being a firefighter, I would like to have a business on the side. I have heard many stories of firefighters having certain businesses on the side like for example, a plumbing or electrician business. I would just like to know what would allow me to kill two birds with one stone when it comes to high school courses and overall topics will benefit me in a positive way for business and firefighting together. Lastly, I would just like to know any advice you have for me to help benefit me in becoming a firefighter altogether and what things should I partake in during high school. That's all I would love to know at the moment. keep up the great work, much appreciated.

[@lucavignola5667]

Hey man! Really appreciate your videos. I’m Italian, and still actually living here in IT, but really looking for a Firefighter career in the US. How about foreigners?

[@ChinolaFlow]

I just graduated from high school and would love to become a firefighter

[@Bossbaby4573]

Same here I applied for college and taking a few classes.

[@projectejay52]

Very Great Video!!

[@HilariousCompilations-ir1lb]

What if im trying to go through the military

[@RambunctiousVids]

Hello sir, I live in Colorado and just finished my EMT last semester. I started a local college academy. I'm not to sure what to do now or where to go after the academy. Any help would be appreciated

[@mike_pertz]

If I were you I would... 1. go to every hospital and ambulance service in your area and get an EMT job tomorrow. 2. contact every volunteer and part time department in your area and look into joining their department 3. take every application and test for every full time department in your area 4. repeat 2 and 3 until you get hired

[@RealMTBAddict]

I also live in Colorado. Where did you get your EMT? I am trying to save as much money as possible.

[@itssFlexx]

I wanna be a firefighter I’m 18 right now but when I was 14 I got into a school fight punched a kid and his parents pressed charges on me I’ve learned from that mistake I never got into trouble ever again and I’m hoping that doesn’t affect me from joining The Toronto Fire Services

[@DanielGDwyer]

I’m going to be 33, a firefighter career checks off all of my vocational goals but I’m wondering if being older puts me at a disadvantage to becoming a firefighter. Your thoughts?

[@ronthemogul]

35 and going to the academy . No regrets

[@MichaelCook1981]

Not really. I'm 40 and just got my EMT. I talked to the FF on my clinicals, they said they'd rather work someone older vs a 18-21 yr old kid, that tend to be immature.

[@RealMTBAddict]

​@@MichaelCook1981 Good to hear. I'm 40 in a few days and really wanting to get out of construction and become a FF. I'm already at the top of my skill game in concrete. Ready for the next thing.

[@vetoenglishclass]

Hi, I'm Brazilian, living in Brazil. I'm a firefighter at my state in the Pantanal region. I'd like to join to