Being a firefighter
demands hard work and continuous, rigorous training to maintain
the strength and skill levels needed. It requires dedication,
compassion and the ability to handle emergency situations that
can often mean life or death. At times, the intensity is like no
other, but the rewards make it all worthwhile.
What
kinds of things do firefighters do?
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Firefighting, which
includes extinguishment, cleanup, and salvage operations
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Render emergency
medical services
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Technical rescues
including: high angle, swift water, lakeshore, confined
space and more...
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Extrication from
vehicles and buildings
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Work with hazardous material clean up and
disposal
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Conduct fire
inspections
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Promote fire safety and
prevention
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Participate in
community events
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Train, train, train...
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Serve the public
Minimum
qualifications for Lake Havasu City Fire Department include:
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Must be at least 18
years of age
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Must be a high school
graduate or equivalent
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Must successfully pass
a physical examination
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Must pass a physical
abilities test
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Must pass a written
test
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Must pass a practical
exam
-
Must pass an oral board
interview
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Must possess a valid
Arizona Drivers License
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Must pass a background
investigation
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Must be an Arizona
State certified Firefighter I & II
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Must be an Arizona
State certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
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Must have Hazmat FPO
(First Responder Operations)
What are
the tests like?
Written Test: The
written test evaluates your reading comprehension, mechanical
and spatial aptitude, mathematics, as well as your ability to
comprehend and learn from written instructions.
Practical Exam: This
exam will assess your basic skills and knowledge based on the
International Fire Service Training Association (IFSTA)
essentials.
Oral Board Interview:
The oral board measures interpersonal relations, ability to
communicate orally, judgment, reasoning, and analytical skills.
Physical Abilities Test:
This tests your physical strength and stamina, which is required
to be a firefighter.
Then
What?
If you are interested in
becoming a firefighter, the first thing you should do is to
visit the Lake Havasu City Human Resources Department, located
at 2330 McCulloch Blvd. N. They can advise you of any
opportunities that may be available along with the eligibility
requirements, application processes, and testing dates.
Suggested courses to prepare for a firefighting career:
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Mohave Community
College offers courses in fire science, English grammar, math and
reading comprehension.
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EMT certification, CPR
certification, and first aid