A firefighter is a rescuer extensively trained in firefighting, primarily to extinguish hazardous fires that threaten life, property, and the environment as well as to rescue people and in some cases or jurisdictions also animals from dangerous situations.
General Requirements to Become A Firefighter In South Africa
18 years and older
Matric (preferably with Mathematics and Physical Science)
Complete a 2.4km run in under 11 minutes (males) or 12 minutes (females)
Complete 15 bench press repetitions of 25kg
Complete 30 sit ups in 60 seconds
Carry another person of equal body weight a distance of 100 metres
Complete a vertigo test (ladder climb five floors)
Claustrophobia test
Where should I apply?
Approach your local fire department in your area or monitor your local newspaper. E.g. City Press
How long does it take?
From the time you been interviewed, it normally takes about three to four weeks for the HR to get back to you.
Best advice would be to enquire from the officials at the interview.
What are the characteristics needed to become a firefighter?
Firstly you have to be passionate about wanting to help people and the salary you get should be a secondary consideration.
If you doing this for the money you are mistaken as a firefighters job is serving mankind.
You have to be honest and trustworthy since you will be entering houses and business to do your job.
You should be a problem solver and not panic under server stressful situations.
You must take the job serious as your life and people’s lives depend on you.
You should be disciplined and be able to take instruction from your commanding officer.
Be positive and have a great attitude for life.
Be humble and strive to help someone in need.
You should be physical fit as the job is extremely strenuous.
How long does it take to be a firefighter in South Africa?
What are the different levels in the fire department? Once you are successful, you will undergo four months of fire fighting training in a fire fighting training college. Upon the completion of your training, you will be promoted to the rank of a Platoon Commander.
Where can I study to become a firefighter in South Africa?
Central University of Technology. National Diploma: Fire Technology; Emergency Medical Care.
Tshwane University of Technology. Bachelor of Technology: Fire Technology.
The Navy.
University of Cape Town.
University of Johannesburg.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology.
Durban University of Technology.
How much money does a firefighter make in South Africa?
A mid-career Fireman with 5-9 years of experience earns an average total compensation (includes tips, bonus, and overtime pay) of R225,000 based on 5 salaries. An experienced Fireman with 10-19 years of experience earns an average total compensation of R168,696 based on 8 salaries.
How long is firefighter training?
The average fire academy program takes about 12 to 14 weeks to complete a total of 600 hours of training. While most programs want all students to enter at the same time, some have staggered entrance options. Generally, you’ll need to commit anywhere from 40 to 48 hours weekly to undergo the program.
What grades do you need to be a firefighter?
Many ask for GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) in English and maths, or equivalent qualifications. You’ll need to pass: an online test to assess your judgement ability in a realistic work setting.
Is firefighter a good career?
Firefighting is a rewarding career that offers a very high level of job satisfaction. Being a firefighter is a great job if you enjoy helping people and serving your community, but be aware that it can be demanding, stressful, and even dangerous at times.
What skills do firefighters need?
Key skills for firefighters
good physical fitness.
confidence.
resilience.
good communication skills.
the ability to work well under pressure.
Do firefighters do paperwork?
Reporting / Documentation Firefighters must document each event they respond to, no matter how big or small. Most reports take 15–30 minutes to complete. Also, each individual piece of equipment check or maintenance is documented and recorded.
Are firefighters happy?
Firefighters are one of the happiest careers in the United States. At Career Explorer, we conduct an ongoing survey with millions of people and ask them how satisfied they are with their careers. As it turns out, firefighters rate their career happiness 3.8 out of 5 stars which puts them in the top 16% of careers.