How to Become a Firefighter - Applying For Your Dream Job

First, to start the application process, you willmidnight on the closing date indicated on the job
need to obtain an application. You can usually getannouncement. After you file, you will most likely
information about the exam and applicationbe notified by mail as to where and when you
process from your city's department of personnelshould appear for the actual examination. Some
or from your local fire department. You mightcities give "walk-in exams" which do not require
also be able obtain an application from your schoolthat you file an application in advance. The
guidance office or your local library.important thing is to know is if there is a filing
You begin the application process by locating thedate cut- off. If so, make sure that you file
appropriate agencies in your phone book. Whenbefore that date.
you call the agency, be sure to have a pencil andPreparing for the examination
paper ready to write down any instructions orThe best way to prepare for the firefighter
directions you are given. You can explain that youexam is to first study the sample questions you
need:will find on our web site (see information, below).
1. Information about the examinationThis will give you an idea of what to expect.
2. The application itselfNext, you should get one of the following books:
3. The correct procedure for filling out the- Barron's Firefighter Exams by James J. Murtagh
application- Firefighter Written Tests - Physical Exams by
If your city will be holding an examination in theRobert Andriuolo
near future, the agency (usually the municipalitie's- Master the Firefighter Exam by Fred M. Rafilson
human resources or personnel department) shouldYou may be able to find one or more of these
be able to give you all the necessary information.books at your local library. If not, try contacting
If there is no examination scheduled in the nearyour nearest community college to see if it offers
future, you'll need to ask how the examinationany firefighting or related classes. If so, it may sell
notice will be made public, when it will be available,one of these books in its bookstore. Or the store
and where it will be published.might be able to order it for you.
Make sure you submit our application on timeHowever, the best bet is We found that you can
Most cities will require that you file for thefind all three of these books on this site and buy
examination by submitting your application by aused copies at very reasonable costs. Just
certain date. If you are going to mail in theremember that it will take at least three to five
application, be sure it is postmarked beforedays for the book to arrive after you order it.