Firefighting - How Old Is Too Old?

Weekly Newsletter: geni.us/mpertz_newsletter_yt "Am I too old to become a firefighter?" is one of the most common questions I get. In this video, I address how old is too old and some considerations you should keep in mind before beginning a career as a firefighter.
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[@willgrossi5546]

I’m 35. Just went through an academy and got hired as a FF/EMT in California. Next up is medic school. If your older, use your age and life experience to your advantage. Stay in shape. Focus on building functional strength and especially mobility. 🤙🏻

[@jo7hern208]

I could not agree more my friend. I went through academy at 34. I was the oldest guy in my class but still kept up with all the younger guys because of my physical fitness. Being fit at this age is the key.

[@garciavictor15]

32 now and I am strongly thinking about switching career paths and becoming a fire fighter. Appreciate the comment brother. 🤙🏽

[@MsFiregal8]

You’ll do great! I’d never trade this career and family!!!

[@kyleerickson2377]

@@garciavictor15 same here

[@kyleerickson2377]

How’s it going? How much was the academy. I’m in Southern California.

[@grumpycat4584]

Went through Pennsylvania's Firefighter Essentials Training at age 55, and named the world's oldest living proby. Today, at age seventy, I still try to assist in any way I can. This Marine can still do anything. It's an attitude we never lose. Semper Fi

[@williamtroup3498]

Started at age 16 and recently turned 60. Glad to continue assisting the community as a volunteer firefighter and EMS provider.

[@AkhiZakariah]

❤️❤️❤️

[@Gino91481]

5th generation FF here. I always had a passion but thing didn't work out early in life. One day I looked at my dad, who at the time was 60, and said I need to go into a fire with him before he retires. I joined and within 6 years I was a Lt in my department. My dad was a past chief. At 66 before he retired, he could still do what he did when he was 18. The younger generation was amazed by what he could do at 66 years old. He was One of the most respected firefighters in our county. Respected by both career and volunteer members

[@Rizzle93]

27 years old and almost finishing up my EMT course. Let’s get it!

[@bradmoe316]

Went through the academy at 36 and got hired on FT. Holding strong at 37 now and trying to keep up with the young bucks. The rookie year has certainly been tough on the body, but it’s worth it and as long as you stay fit you’ll be absolutely ok! Good luck!

[@kevadams1964]

I am 56 and have been in the fire service since I was 19. Currently, I am with a career department in north Georgia. I was hired here 15 years ago, so my pension is not where I would like it to be to retire. I want to stay with my department as long as I can. My advice to anyone who wants to be a firefighter is to, go for it. I have never regretted my career choice for one second. I love my job and the guys I work with. Also, this video has good advice for anyone wanting to be in emergency services. You have to work hard to get hired and to get through your initial training. The job is tough and sometimes I feel really old especially when it's over 90 degrees and I'm in full ppe. Still, it's the best job. Just work hard and be prepared for whatever the job brings. Good luck.

[@stevebooth6718]

Started at a volunteer in November 2019 at age 61. Due to Covid academy didn't finish until August 2020. I finished at top of my class on the written test with 92%. I purposely started working out in March 2019, assuming I needed to be in better shape than I was. Two and a half years later, still working out daily. Lost 30 lbs this year 195 to 165. I quit drinking alcohol in April of this year. My biggest regret is that I didn't do all of the above 10 years ago, especially the joining the fire department part. I have been to many fires and incidents and am getting smarter with every run. I highly recommend that you seek out your local fire chief if you are or have been thinking about joining. JUST DO IT! Tomorrow. Call and leave a message. Be prepared to spend some hours in classroom training and reading a hefty training manual. I'm 61, it was easy. Then again I got up an hour early every day for six months and studied. You can do anything you set your mind to do. Good luck, be safe.

[@jeffshaffer722]

I started volunteering at 19 in Tennessee. When my grandfather got sick I stopped volunteering cause I was the only family member that wanted to keep the farm going. Fast forward to now. I’m 33 and live in Ohio and about to start my EMT course this year and next year I’ll redo my firefighter 1 and 2.

[@jeffshaffer722]

@Richard ASMR that’s when mine starts.

[@jeffshaffer722]

Good luck to u as well

[@meredithbenjamin6694]

My grandson 31 just joined volunteer. He has tests to do to qualify. He passed so far, still more to do. I'm proud of him and ALL Firefighters. Thank you for your help to us.

[@flordrite]

I’m 51 and was accepted to train as an auxiliary firefighter a month ago here in Canada. Was something I always wanted to do but had 4 children to raise as a single Dad. I’ve been a flooring installer for 27 years and now that my children are “adults” now I’m enjoying this new potential to be of service to my community. Getting in better shape and eating healthier…no plans on retiring anytime soon and will stay as long as I’m an asset. The social side of the Fire Hall has been a great plus in my life as well.

[@gregchaffin9392]

Hey Mike. Great Vid. I’m 44 years old and just got on with our combo department. We have 5 stations (2 combo and 3 all volunteer) with about 130 total. I served as a FF in my 30’s and had to quit. I went and certified as an EMR last year and now I’m serving as a FF/EMR. I passed the CPAT in 6:40 and I’m making the young bucks keep up with me. It is a physically demanding job, even as a volunteer. I spoke with the retention/recruiting officer and mentioned I thought I might be too old, and he convinced me that age is just a number and that I’ve stayed fit and that if I can pass the physical fitness tests and all the medical exams that there is no reason not to apply. I just finished my recruit academy (for the second time 😁) and I’ve enjoyed every bit of it. Staying physically fit since I was 17 has been the best thing to get me ready for this job. Keep up the good work with these videos Mike. I find them valuable.

[@flextefitness4954]

I started the Academy at 49 years old. No prior experience. I'm in a big city and the Academy was 10 months. I graduated at 50. It's definitely possible if you find city with no age limits. One thing people have to realize is that in big cities not all stations will be busy. You can go a year or more without a real job. If you get on at a kater age you most likely won't go to a busy station but rather a station with more Ems runs or no runs at all. I'd you do get a big job you most likely won't get another one for a while so you do have time to recover. I wasn't the only old guy that made it through. Some people are just built different. It doesn't hurt to give it a shot if that what you want to do . Just realize that as you get older you have to train harder just to maintain your fitness level. 💪

[@christophermonces6944]

I gotta find out where you're at, because this is something that I really wanna do, and I'm 44!

[@flextefitness4954]

@@christophermonces6944 Philly

[@drg2094]

What city are you in ?

[@stevencook3074]

we will see what happens just put my app in to the fire department 49 years old will be 50 in July

[@DS-iu4su]

@@stevencook3074 good luck brother!

[@keneppink7272]

Iv been on a volunteer department for 19 years. My full time job wanted me to work 7 days a week. I didn’t want that. I have tried in the past to get on full time with no success. At age 40 I tired one last time and made it. Now my wife and I have more time off together and I make more money. But the time off with my wife is most important to me. If you’re a hard worker and you know the fire industry you shouldn’t have any trouble getting on. Like everybody else the fire industry is looking for people good people

[@Becomebeastmove22]

Hey ken thanks for sharing your story I’m currently 37 about to be 38 this fall. I been a volunteer 12 years. 6 years ago I made a chance to join the Philadelphia fire dept I was rank 100 out of 15,000 people that took the test that year it took two years to the process but I end up injury myself in a bad fire right before the academy. I told the fire academy what happened they did give me a chance but they noticed that my injuries weren’t healing properly and unfortunately they had to let me go. It broke my heart something I dreamed of just vanished. I had to take a couple of years of while I healed and try to regain strength. It’s been a year and a half and I been very close but no cigar. But I feel like this year just been crazy and I feel like my age might be in issue. Between watching this video and guys like you motivate me to push even hard.

[@reinhardt2400]

I startet at 51 and have only been a firefighter for about 4 months. Just part time, and they paid for my training. Its super fun, and not to late 🚒

[@JasonSwihart-bt2od]

I’m 36, lifelong construction worker starting my emt class in two days, hoping I can successfully find a home in a department somewhere

[@aafillon]

Thank you! I'm 30 and want to change my career to firefighting. I've started the process to join a volunteer department so I can get trained up and plan to apply to a career fire departments after my first year of training. So good to know there is some time.

[@jonathanlee9569]

I just got hired as a firefighter/EMT and I’m 34 I will be 35 soon. The department is sending me to medic school. I’m working in a small suburb in Dallas. I suggest people to follow their dreams I been trying to become a firefighter for 7 1/2 years but life was getting in the way of that I was having a hard time focusing on school and I decided to put everything else in life on hold and give my all in school and I made it.

[@DannyOceann]

Im 31 and from Dallas myself, I’m currently working on getting on to a fire department in the dfw area, it gives me hope and motivation knowing that someone else in my age group has made it and living their dreams, I really appreciate your comment, thank you for that!

[@cisco1425]

What is the age cap for Dallas ?

[@bcrawford9072]

I got married young and had kids. I was a volunteer since 16. I had a chance to go to a night fire academy and that took a year. I started testing after academy and there would be a 1000 people for a spot or two. So I moved states and got picked up at the age of 33 and worked through the ranks and made it to district chief. So it can be done if you want it bad enough.

[@mike_pertz]

This is the best comment and personal story I've read in a long time.

[@chadtrips3203]

I am about to turn 45 and was just hired as a paid on call position. And my plan is to become full-time.

[@joshuahollar9880]

Started volunteering at 38 and then became a career firefighter at 40. I love the job but it is really physically demanding. I try to put more focus on exercise and living a healthy lifestyle than most of my younger coworkers. It is a very rewarding and mentally challenging job but I think it's the best in the world.

[@Theotheradamyouknow]

Any updates after the 1st year?

[@noahmocettini9809]

I'm 26 and wanting to get in. I grew up in the fire service. My dad did it for 34 years and retired in 2008. He did it at a time when it wasn't super competitive. About 7 years ago I knew guys older than me trying to get in but were constantly getting turned down left and right. Interview after interview. That sapped my interest because I thought it would be a waste of time competing for 1 job that long and you're right Mike. Some were in fact talking about how the system is rigged and too competitive. Afterall they looked like guys that can be on a firefighter billboard off the freeway. They clearly looked more like a firefighter than ne. So I walked away from that interest with no interest in coming back. It wasn't until the pandemic hit that it got my interest back. I'll be graduating this December with a bachelor's degree in Communications and looking forward to getting serious about it. Your videos have helped and have literally saved my interest

[@JoshBlomquist]

I’m 30 and going through the academy right now. There are three other guys who are also 30 or more in my class as well. Age for most part is just a number. Stay fit. Eat well. Be ready to focus on recovery. It’s the most important part of improvement but often gets over looked. I am just saying do what you want but be prepared to work for it! This career won’t be handed to you.

[@EICL2011]

I’m 31 and want to go for it before it’s too late

[@JoshBlomquist]

Do it! You will absolutely not regret it.

[@MrShadow1995.]

I'm 27 and thought about doing this as a career, but was worried I might be too old. I've been into weight lifting and fitness since I was in high school so I'm not out of shape. Also, I live in California.

[@stevepaskin2863]

I started very late. I joined our local department at 45, (volunteer) which is Composite so 10 fulltime and 20 volunteer. I am now almost 58 and still loving it. There is one guy older than me haha he's be on for almost 20 years now. You have given perfect advise on here and I only wish I would have started younger. It is a good reminder that I must kkep in shape if I'm going to try and keep up with A-full timers B much younger Volunteers. A few of us are now AO's too so that is very encouraging as an older volunteer. PLUS the respect the younger guys give you is incredible, but you must earn it of course :) I plan on staying a volunteer until I can no longer do the job. I will not allow myself to be a hazard to my brothers and sisters at my hall. I also now am in an instructor role with new recruits. You are so correct about being in shape. Make sure you practise, get in shape before you head to the recruit office wanting the fitness test. I practised for months, carrying weights on by back, Climbing ladders with snowmobile suit and Helmet on in July... Talk to some guys/gals that already do this, watch KZbin videos. This is a great site right here!!!!!! Have Fun and stay safe. There is no better career than Fire Fighting either Fulltime, Volunteer, or Paid On Call.

[@wxvyd9653]

I just got accepted into the Pre-Service firefighting coarse that’s mandatory to have in Canada to be a career firefighter so now in a year I’ll be able to start my firefighter journey after waiting my whole life🙃

[@a.c.6426]

I’m 37 Siged up for my standard first aid and CPR ‘c’ certificate this weekend. Enrolled in my local volunteer station and I’m using that as a platform to determine if this is the right career move for me. Lots of different ways to explore the fire service, I’m excited to start this journey. Stay fit.

[@victor.randolph]

So.. how’s it going?

[@Valkyrerider]

I will be 75 Dec. 02 2021 and I have been on our volunteer fire dept. for 10 years. I am an EMR/Firefighter. I have passed all the tests to put on PPE and fight the fire. But I know my limits, I don't go into fires anymore. I run the truck or engine (AKA Pumper!) I am also the safety officer on most sites. I live in a town of 420 people. It is about 5 miles squire. We have three (3) engines and two (2) brush trucks. I have asked myself that question for some time now! (How old is too old?) I do plan on doing it until I can't! "I'm not bad for a 75-year-old man?' Pray for me! FYI: We are 100% volunteers. Our Chief is also our mayor! Deputy Chief is head of the water dept. OH Yes! Ruel Arkansas.

[@KJNZ2011]

Starting in 1 month... 34 years old 😀

[@yabpiigotti1313]

I’m 29 and just graduated the academy at Stark State in OHIO and got hired part time at a department instantly bc of my work hard work ethic in the academy. I’m In the Akron OH and There’s tons departments hiring all year round. There’s definitely a shortage of qualified applicants where I am. Going through EMT school and Medic next spring. The age restrictions around this area vary from 31 to 36, but departments are in extreme need of eligible ppl so there’s still hope. I’m also 6,4 and in better shape than most so that’s my advantage along with life experiences of working in the corporate world. Thanks for your videos! and good luck to everyone out there!!! Also if you’re going for this job, APPLY APPLY APPLY everywhere you can!

[@yabpiigotti1313]

I also have Stark State agility very of 2:27 which was pretty good. So I think with everything my chances are pretty high! Good luck everyone and chase your dreams!

[@keithbaine]

32. medic. just finished up academy in June. Just got hired at my first choice department. I start early November.

[@ridepowpow7218]

I haven’t really seen any age limits in the Seattle area. Don’t let age stop you if this is what you want to do, left a good career in the mortgage business to do this at age 40 and I’m loving it.

[@arizonaexclusive7926]

Did you really? I sure would love to ask you some questions as I’m in a similar position!

[@Madmac96]

Went into the Army at 18. Got out after 5 years and soon became a police officer. After retiring from the PD, I joined my local volunteer fire department. I was 51 years old at that time, and was the oldest person in my fire academy class. Had no problem passing the academy, and didn't miss a single day. Wasn't easy starting out as a rookie (again), but I'm now 53 and love the fire service.

[@drg2094]

What city are u in?

[@dmartinez5173]

I'm 21 right now and I'm gonna start doing emt classes this year so I can be firefighter/emt. Your videos really help with information.

[@burningspear90]

Up late studying for final module in academy. I’m going to listen to this again tomorrow but want to check in I’m 48 turn 49 this year. In my third month of academy in eastern coastal Ga. they don’t have an age limit. There also is no temperature limit with the heat. The most challenging aspects aside from Being 6’8” has been the learning to hydrate for my body type AND AGE. And knees. My knees and lower body have been getting a serious workout. Last week we were fortunate to do training in a 15 story building and I had a serious bout of heat stroke and that finally showed me rather my instructor who did ems support showed me how he (6’4 or 6’5”) hydrates. And it was tough going up 15 flights with high rise packs full turnout and gear and irons. Then going to floor search carrying the same for 30 min. I realized why NYC may have 29 as a limit because 75% of the buildings are high rises 15-20+ stories. That is not easy after a certain age if you’ve never done it. Here the tallest building is 25 stories. And there are only 3-5 buildings over 15. That said it’s been extremely rewarding physically educationally and emotionally seeing how far I can go. This week starts burn month. Flashover on Wednesday. It’s a blast no pun intended. Thank you sir for your channel it’s been very supportive.

[@SD45-ET44AC]

Started as a volunteer firefighter, then EMS, got my RN, stopped volunteering after 20 years, worked in a hospital for 35 years. I’m retired now but volunteering at a Fire Department was my favorite part.

[@kztrekz3329]

I started at 56. Im physically fit enough to hang with the 20 somethings during a structure fire. However a 20 something needs several hours to recover from a structure fire...........I need several DAYS!

[@skatingdoormatable]

Love all of your videos! I’ve been a police officer in two states spanning 6 years. The longer I’m in law enforcement the longer I realize it’s not for me. I got hurt in the beginning of this year and had plenty of time to reevaluate my career. I love serving my community and the fast paced nature of being a first responder. But With the changes going on in the country, the job, and the absolute exhaustion with the job; it’s time for me to move on from law enforcement. Currently looking at fire departments in and near my town as I finish up rehabbing my injury. The content in your videos fuels my drive to pursue fire fighting. Mostly knowing what the job entails from being in law enforcement is a good start but having you explain the ins and outs is extremely valuable to anyone looking into the fire service. Keep the videos coming and stay safe!

[@mike_pertz]

Thanks Matt! Good luck brother!

[@felipeescamilla5060]

I am 34 and recently started volunteering at my local Fire department and let me tell you definetly not as easy as it seems when in full bunker gear, make sure you are in shape and train often preferably in full gear and on air. Definitely changed my entire outlook on the fire service much respect to my brothers. I am hooked.

[@MsFiregal8]

Started at 34

[@chainsaw5vent]

As an old timer with a lot of years (almost 40 and getting a regular $$ paycheck since 01/1986). If you really want to become a FF, FF/PM. Do what is necessary to be that 1st or 2nd round pick. Testing Background checks. Physical Fitness/Agility. Personality. Etc. be prepared. Then no one complains about you. Don’t be that guy that they always have to wait for. Age is crucial. But the wear and tear on your body and how you choose to maintain it over the years is important. Cardio. And physical condition is important. You don’t have to be super strong, but the ability to keep working during hard work time IS IMPORTANT!! If you’re in California the steps are. EMT. Paramedic. Fire academy. Usually done on your own time and money. Minimum two year process. Get all of your college units organized into the A/A, A/S Bachelors degree. Most agencies give extra points for education during the hiring and promotional process. And some give bonus money on top of base pay for that degree. It does not always have to be fire/safety related. I’m in the last 12-18 months of my career. . And the real thing is don’t stay sooooo long that you become a working health hazard to yourself, to your crew. Or retire then have the BIG H💔t attack and die before you collect that first or second pension check. (We have our flags at 1/2 staff because one our really Senior Captains did just that). Become FIREFIGHTER. Help all people. Help yourself by investing your earnings and savings wisely so IF. IF. IF You have to retire earlier that thought, you have a little (or a lot) of $$$ safety cushion. Be safe!

[@danarogers7268]

I'm 42 and start orientation with my fire department part-time Sunday, and fire 1 and 2 courses the following Monday. Thank you for this video.

[@Chris_G_541]

I will be 39 when I graduate the fire suppression program at my community college. it is a great program with shifts at the college on a student engine and intern shifts at a local career station. It is no joke. Great experience and so glad I am in shape. I have to keep up with all these young bucks. I also volunteer. It is overwhelming at times but will be so worth it when I graduate and get a career position.

[@austinbedwell5684]

Just got hired at a small Dept at 30. Spent 10 years in the USMC and when I got out I discovered the fun personality the Marine Corps gave me made it hard to be in a normal civilian job. The camaraderie and mentality in the fire service is the closest thing to that of the Marine Corps I've found. So any vets that get out and feel like their "missing something", I recommend looking into the fire service.

[@benaberg8785]

Age 36, seattle wa suburbs, worked at Boeing 10 years, applying to many department for the last year, not a good test taker. Although I do have an interview in 2 weeks to a department I had an interview with last year, but bombed. Love the videos. Keep it up

[@user-tb5zo7fm8t]

I started with a volunteer department in my late 40s 49 to be exact. The training was difficult I will be honest. But the rewards were wonderful I became the station cook. I met great people. If you are older like me and like a challenge I would say do it. Join a volunteer fire department.

[@mmddmm553]

I started my career in 1988 in a busy city retired 2 years ago with 31 years on the job . Just remember the job is demanding mentally and physically and if you really do the job it is very taxing on your body just some things to think about when deciding to start your career later in life . good luck to all . 👍🏻

[@hankgs]

30 yrs on the floor (Never went to Admin) and I was done/burned out. The job has changed SO MUCH in the last 10 years or so... Constant training mandates- From EMS, Confined Space/USAR, ARFF, HazMat, and the usual drill ground training and preparing others for promotional exams... Cell phones and the internet CHANGED EVERYTHING with regard to Station life and work relationships... Now everyone just goes into "their room" and isolates after work hours (post 5pm-6am)

[@roostercotten988]

I’m 32 and have just started as a volunteer. I’m having no problem and enjoying it. Also, I am a single father so taking care of my child comes first but the department works well with me on this.

[@mike_pertz]

Good luck Rooster!

[@atahuallpamejia2698]

For my Paramedic and Firefighter i was on my late 30s i thing i was 39, is never to old but the only thing that help me was to be in a better fit, one of my team firefighter started at 47 yrs old we both did careers, now every time i move around i always register as a voluntary in Africa (Current Mozambique) am a deep water salvage diver and that i did in my early 30s, just keep fit it helps a lot, plus at least for me, anywhere in the world i move i give my service to the community which is always great! So, go ahead and start!!!! IS NEVER TOO OLD, AGE IS JUST A NUMBER!!!

[@kevbo0825]

I am 56-years old and am fairly physically fit by going to the gym three times a week and am just starting training in the fire service at my local volunteer fire department.

[@snugglylovemuffin]

I'm 33, i've been volunteering for 3 years and finally decided to go full time, recently got picked up by a department and I'm about to go through academy (again). I see my age and my experience as sort of essential for the job. I can only imagine how the job would have influenced my ego, and none of it really good. I volunteer with men in their 70's, it's not about age, it's all about attitude

[@tomandlizzy]

47 here I started as a firefighter at 16 and got my EMT at 18. I volunteered for 2 years and full time until 34. I left by accident, I was working part-time as ED tech when a IT help desk position opened up and paid double what I was making so I took it. 12 years later I worked my way up to a Sr. Cyber security engineer. Then because of covid I lost my job. I decided I wanted to get back in fire service. I have talked to several chiefs about my age and getting hired and all have said as long as I pass all the testing and get my NREMTP they have no problem hiring me. There's a lot of benefits to hiring someone older My situation is a little different though I have all my FF I & II, hazmat tech and several others, been an emt for almost 30 years, and taking my NREMT - paramedic this weekend and will have my associates in emergency services this August

[@ingridmalmberg2841]

I also found this to be true when if you're a teenager. My first exposure to firefighting was at two separate student firefighting camps in Canada the year I was in grade 11. At 17 years old, I survived, but it was really miserable. I suppose it would go without saying that teenagers still need to develop physically but I had family members who were not happy about my aspirations (because of being female) and held the physical strength element over my head. Now I'm an adult and way better prepared. Teenagers are more than just mini-adults and your physical abilities will be much better when you hit your 20s.

[@taylortrotti9954]

At 30 years old I recently completed the academy and start my probie year on Monday. I wanted to be a firefighter since I was 6 years old spraying the house with a garden hose, and now I'm starting that journey. My department is sending me to Paramedic school 1 month after I start with them. Love the videos!

[@mike_pertz]

Congratulations Taylor!! Good luck at your new department!

[@JoshLasto]

After highschool I hit an immediate fork in life...Air Force or Fire Fighting. I chose the AF and have now retired after 20 years and drawing pension for the rest of my life. Awesome. But, Man, i still really want to serve. So I was exploring the idea of revisiting firefighting but when you mention starting on the bottom rung of the ladder that hit home. It's not that i'm against starting from the bottom rung and being a follower again but whew...i just don't know if i have THAT kind of energy anymore haha. Thank you for the great video...Very eye opening for me.

[@ronthemogul]

36 and starting academy next month

[@ngrandchamp]

I’m 32 and just got hired full time at a FD. I have been in EMS for 12 years. I got my standards in 2016. I did volunteer from 2016-2020 (COVID stopped it) since the departments also had career. Now I am doing my dream job.

[@mattinnes5719]

I’m 47 and about to start training as a volunteer at my local fire house.

[@jakefiene3537]

I was I teacher for a few years then lost my job because of the virus. Decided to make a career switch and enrolled and finished my emt class. I joined a volunteer department and am currently working and getting experience. I will start my fire classes there in a few months. I’m 27 years old.

[@DOC-Jake-]

I started as a call ff @20 -23 Emt & had to move up to paramedic before I was successful @ FT. I did apply but wasn’t a veteran / paramedic to get the x tra boost on score . I got hired @32yr old. I can say I kept myself in shape , passed all fit tests w/out a PRACTICE run , I had all my ff certs as well ! I chose lateral movement & went to MFA class 186 -2010 -12 weeks @ 43 passed w/0 issues , I’m 54 & I train with my group youngest is 24. So I do know I don’t have a reserve tank like I did @30 but my guys & even my son Usmc Officer says I’m in good shape 5”11 175-185 lbs . Retirement in a year or so & I’m still first out 4 most calls. ✌️ my advise stay in shape both mentally / physically not a weight lifter more of mma kinda training . Be safe ✌️👨🏻‍🚒

[@biff_handstands]

I'm 42 and in the hiring process for a large county in Northern Virginia, just took the written test the other day🙏. I wasn't sure if they had an age cutoff; so, I emailed before applying. They said 18 at time of hire was the only requirement👍.

[@ethangrover5382]

Hi, I would really like to see your explanation on the pension system in the fire service and how it may be changing for newer hires compared to more veteran members.

[@LegoTux]

Was between jobs in my late 30s so I put in an application for the town FD, went through rookie school and now work when I want POC when I am done with my day job.

[@xXRiiChxXBoiixX]

I am turning 29 this year , recently looked into joining a firefighting academy but have been skeptical due to my age i know I’m not all old but i also don’t feel very young you know , but hearing peoples stories of how old they were when they started encourages me to not give up on this dream to join the academy and become a firefighter

[@DOC-Jake-]

I was a call ff rescue diver in mass 1987 till 2002 then . Got hired as a ff/medic & 34 with a ft civil service Dept who waived my age & passed all test w 0 issues I’m 54 now in good shape physically keeping up w my group w/ some issue age can’t erase🤪 ! But my sons a Usmc Officer & he says I’m as good as men my age in the Corp ! Mentally it’s tough too good luck ✌️🇺🇸

[@Derekva40]

I'm 50 26 yrs Truck company Lt... Its a young mans game!!!

[@Chasqui4021]

Minus being pregnant, I’m trying to start out with FF via volunteer companies and the Air Force reserve. I know it’s hard work physically but my husband volunteered in his 20s and he fully supports my goal. Besides, my body has been through worse in the Marine Corps. We’ll see how much more I can take 😂

[@mitch3448]

Apply yourself. In my state the age limit is 35. I went to EMT at 28, academy at 29 and medic at 30. I knew what I wanted and worked, worked, worked. People I went to emt class are sill basics working on the privates as emt-b and I got 3 full time offers within 2 months of finishing medic school. Know what you want and go all out to get it and things will happen. This career is super competitive, if you half ass it you won't go anywhere.

[@Kusunoky]

You are the boss. Is what I was thinking before. I am 33 now with a ADN degree also can speak several languages and I was wondering if I am already old for today's standard lol.

[@AkhiZakariah]

Im 42 been a FF and EMT for 23 years..

[@weeziteer]

Do a whole video on the pension system!

[@mijuajua4820]

I’ll be 53 in great shape also an LPN. I just put in for a volunteer FF position. I can do 4-10 hours a week. I am good with people & good under pressure . I am also hoping to meet a great guy. Sike…jk. 😂 I really like my community & looking to become involved in it & also have a 10 yo grandson in same community, so I want to set a good example for him as well😊

[@F_Glock]

Thank you for these videos! They are incredibly useful! I would like to ask you something not related to this video (I posted here just because it’s the last one) Have you guys any particular suggestions for an application in an Army base in Europe? In your experience, is the hiring process similar? (I’m 26 and a volunteer since 18)

[@Nero-mt1bd]

I just got an offer at 36 I've been doing Wildland for years and spent some of time in the security/public safety field

[@abingham3747]

I got on with a career full-time dept at the age of 32. But have been in the fire service since I was 23. The pension is what matters. I feel like I got in late but I work for a 20 and out dept, so I can retire when I'm 52. Not bad. But I wish my part time service would have counted.

[@keith4952]

A little late but I'd like to add my experience. I am technically too old to be FT in the state of Illinois. Cut off age is 35. I went through the academy last fall at 43. I am currently Paid on Call with the fire department in my township. I am now enrolled in an EMT program for the summer. I have noticed that townships do not state an age limit for PT FF, so I've been applying. I've also been told that there isn't an age limit for private sectors. I've had a lot of people tell me that I have too many hurdles, but I plan on never giving up. So I guess if you are in the state of Illinois and reading this and under the age of 35, don't hesitate. Start looking into it ASAP.

[@brookallan9436]

Wanted to be a firefighter since 3 started training at 12 and still going

[@1fulsniperlegend]

I’m 31 and considering switching careers to firefighting

[@Peppadank69]

I turned twenty in March trying to get into firefighting field in March but I have to take my firefighter classes I start my classes in the fall

[@erickarcher4040]

I'm 51 and in queue for my physical with the local paid department. They have no age restrictions, the 25 and 55 year old go through the same process. I've been a volly for 6 years so I have an idea of what I'm getting into and what will be expected of me. I can't get an answer on what the age was of the oldest person who successfully completed the academy, but they were older than me.

[@flextefitness4954]

What city?

[@davewhite936]

I’m 30 in Canada Ontario I’m thinking about getting in

[@colinj5291]

Will some fire departments add the number of years served if you are a veteran for the age limit? For example, I did 4 years in the Marine Corps. So if the age cutoff is 35 will some departments make the age limit 39 taking account the 4 years of military service?

[@jbond4266]

Started at 36 with a busy urban department. 36 is too old to start.

[@jamesc3777]

Is it hard to get onto a part time or full time station?

[@kylepascual76]

Is it true some departments force you to retire at a certain age?

[@REALMRGOODLUCK]

I'm a 34 year old pro wrestler living in Pennsylvania and looking to make a career jump into firefighting but fear I'm to old to make this jump. I just turned 34 and in good shape but math is sketchy but willing to put in the work to tighten it up and no emt experience. I'm praying there's a shot but don't know. Any suggestions???

[@dudeletsgonow]

I'll make it short. If you go volly you're never too old. Career 30 is going to be your limit someplaces you can get away with being 32

[@joshbrown5950]

I think the pandemic has put a lot of things in perspective for people and for sure made me realize I need to be doing something in life that is fulfilling. I am now 33 and looking into starting my journey into the fire service. I had a question about the medical requirements of being a firefighter. I have reached out to my local station but I am still kind of confused. I have what is considered a "lazy eye", so my vision in that eye is 20/100 or worse, with contacts. However, with both eyes open, my vision is perfect and I have never had any problems in my entire life with my eyesight hindering me. Do you know if most stations test vision with both eyes open, or does my vision have to be 20/40 in each eye separately? Thanks in advance for any help!

[@mike_pertz]

I don't know the answer to your specific question as you're correct every department is different. However, I know that having a lazy eye should be no issue....in fact, 2 guys I work with both have lazy eyes and they have zero issues.

[@joshbrown5950]

@@mike_pertz that’s great to hear. Thank you for the response! That puts me a little bit more at ease.

[@justincampanoli6092]

I'm turning 40 this year been working towards a paid job for the last ten years just transitioned to a paid department for a large department in the state of California can not disclose due to policy. It's hard but it is do able just have to be willing to work hard for it and you want to do it.

[@NoFutureZine]

How old is too old? I ain't dead yet and I'm fit enough to do my job.

[@xcluded00]

I would say really research what firefighter actually do. We average 15- 25 calls a shift in 24 hours and maybe 1 is a actual "emergency " . It burns you out quickly if you are in a busy area. The 911 system needs to be overhauled.

[@chriscrawford3809]

It’s not the age it’s the MILEAGE!

[@chrismojica6183]

Here I am thinking 25 is too old

[@Gofr4]

I mean in the NYC you have to be your 20's

[@mistapost3921]

Hey

[@cbsteffen]

When people publicly talk about age limits, they refer to appearance and voice regarding specific age groups, not someone’s actual chronological age. Those younger than they look and/or talk easily wind up with a more serious age limit! Be careful when talking about such a topic!

[@andrewhernandez3546]

Houston firefighter academy is so bad.