What Is Fire Fighting
Firefighting is the act of attempting to prevent the spread of and extinguish significant unwanted fires in buildings, vehicles, and woodlands. A firefighter suppresses fires to protect lives, property and the environment. Firefighters typically undergo a high degree of technical training.
Entry Requirements To Study Fire Fighting In South Africa
General requirements
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
Pass a written test in basic mathematics and comprehension
Successfully undergo a competency based interview
Successfully pass a medical examination
The assessments described above are carried out on an elimination basis. If an applicant fails to meet a required standard, they will not be permitted to proceed to the next assessment.
On successful completion of the assessment an applicant is appointed as a Learner Firefighter and enters the Training Program. Candidates are appointed on a contract until training is completed.
Firefighter Training
Thereafter a candidate will complete the 16 week Firefighter 1 course module which consists of a practical and a theoretical component.
Training is a combination of ‘real life’ scenarios simulated in a controlled environment as well as classroom orientated sessions.
Throughout the four month course, values such as teamwork, discipline and perseverance are instilled, ensuring all recruits have a solid basis to start a rewarding career in the CTFRS.
The CTFRS’ Fire Training Academy, which is located in Epping, is accredited with the LG Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) and South African Emergency Services Institute (SAESI).
Supplementary courses (offered by external service providers) include Basic Ambulance Assistant (BAA), Ambulance Emergency Assistant (AEA), Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) and Advanced Driving. Additional courses are added to the prospectus as they are developed.
Approach your local fire department in your area or monitor your local newspaper. E.g. City Press
You start off as a firefighter completing four months of training.
Schools Offering Fire Fighting 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.
What subjects are needed for firefighters In South Africa ?
There are no specific high school subjects that you need to take in high school in order to become a Firefighter. Recommended subjects: Geography. Life Sciences
Do you need matric to be a fire fighter In South Africa ?
Skills, education and training
To qualify for a job as a firefighter, you will undergo rigorous and demanding physical training. You have to be 18 years or older but not older than 45. You must have passed matric, be physically and mentally fit – there are various evaluations you will have to pass.
How much is a fire fighter course in South Africa?
There are 16 courses available, the cheapest price is ZAR 9545.
How do I become a fire engineer in South Africa?
To enter the field in South Africa, you will need to complete a degree in engineering (preferably mechanical or civil) with fire engineering subjects. You will then require some years of mentorship under a senior fire engineer, similar to mentorship required in other engineering disciplines.
How long is a basic fire fighting certificate valid in South Africa?
Fire Fighting – Refresher Course
The refresher certificate is valid for 3 years.
How long does it take to be a fire engineer In South Africa ?
While most fire protection engineers hold at least a four-year degree in fire science or engineering, many get their start as a professional or volunteer firefighter. Or, if you already have an engineering education and background, you can take fire science courses to apply your knowledge to the fire prevention field.
What is the difference between a firefighter and a fire engineer In South Africa ?
Firefighting Role
In all other respects, fire engineers are firefighters. They put out fires using equipment, such as hoses, axes and pumps; rescue victims trapped in emergency conditions; and participate in drills that hone their skills. For firefighters, the job is never the same every day.
Do fire chiefs fight fires In South Africa ?
The fire chief reports to mayor. He is responsible for directing the activities of the fire department and is the sole authority and command at the scene of a fire. The fire chief is responsible for directing all volunteer fire fighters and ensuring that fire fighters have adequate training.