Worried...

[jkjb12]

Hi there...

My fiance (and father of my baby girl) has recently decided to begin his journey into becoming a firefighter. At first I thought, "great! he's going to be doing something that he's very passionate about, only one year of schooling,...and so on". But now I am hearing how long it takes to actually get onto a department and it's making me feel a bit uneasy considering we have a daughter. He is starting the Pre-service program this September in Toronto.

Is it true that you can begin the hiring process when you start school? How long, on average, does it take to get a job?

I'm trying my hardest to be as supportive as I can...any replies or advice would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!

[FFPP]

Hi there...

My fiance (and father of my baby girl) has recently decided to begin his journey into becoming a firefighter. At first I thought, "great! he's going to be doing something that he's very passionate about, only one year of schooling,...and so on". But now I am hearing how long it takes to actually get onto a department and it's making me feel a bit uneasy considering we have a daughter. He is starting the Pre-service program this September in Toronto.

Is it true that you can begin the hiring process when you start school? How long, on average, does it take to get a job?

I'm trying my hardest to be as supportive as I can...any replies or advice would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!


Well unfortunatley hes going to have get in line with the MANY OTHER guys/gals.
Theres alot of us trying to get on full time. But ive know people who get on right away and others in 5 years and some who just give up. Usually most departments will want the Pre Service completed, as well as other specifications. So depending on his background and his skills you never know.

Good luck

[rescuechris]

Depending on the department, you're looking anywhere from 12-36 months from the date applications open to finishing the academy. It's a long, drawn out process that only the truly determined get through (well, I suppose a few lucky ones too).

Each department has it's own requirements and most, if not all require that you have your certification completed by the time applications close. In the meantime, I strongly suggest he goes out and gets his DZ lisence sooner than later because although it's not usually a requirement to apply(TFS asks for it when you apply), it's required within 6 months (ex. Mississauga). Now's the time to pad the CV and get some life experience.

Good luck!

[PocketHercules]

Everyone will confirm that it takes a LONG time to complete this journey he has decided to pursue...unfortunately, it's the truth. If he is really passonate about it, and has your support he can be successful! He is bettering himself, challenging himself and pursuing one of the most noble and sought-after careers in the world! ANY Firefighter will tell you (sincerely), "I love my job" and once a Firefighter - always a Firefighter, what other occupations offer that these days? Firefighters are respected within the community, constantly learning and improving themselves and are connected to the brotherhood FULL of skilled, caring, professionals. You and your daughter will fall under thier circle of care, protection and friendship if your fiancee is successful. Your lives will be enriched. Your support will mean the world to him, he needs you! You are realistic to be worried, however, it CAN BE DONE, and this is WORTH DOING. Best of luck to you, and your family.

[emme]

I can relate to where you are coming from... my boyfriend decided about 3 years ago that he wants to be a firefighter, and graduated from the pre-service course a year and a half ago. He's still trying to get on to a department. (Out of all the students to graduate in his year, only 2 are currently working as firefighters.)

It's a long road- yes, there are frustrations for both of you ahead. He will need your support and understanding along the way. School is expensive (more expensive than a year at university!) and the applications for different departments can add up. Extra training courses (DZ, ropes, confined space, medical courses) eat up weekends and money. It will take hard work and determination to get hired.

I think it's an admirable profession, and if he's passionate about it, then more power to him. From my position, I can say that while there are frustrations, it's a rewarding experience to see him graduate, to get through the testing and interviews, etc. There are many qualified candidates vying for few positions every year. Just be there and support him as best you can. It IS possible and it IS worth it.

[CaboWabo]

Hi there...

My fiance (and father of my baby girl) has recently decided to begin his journey into becoming a firefighter. At first I thought, "great! he's going to be doing something that he's very passionate about, only one year of schooling,...and so on". But now I am hearing how long it takes to actually get onto a department and it's making me feel a bit uneasy considering we have a daughter. He is starting the Pre-service program this September in Toronto.

Is it true that you can begin the hiring process when you start school? How long, on average, does it take to get a job?

I'm trying my hardest to be as supportive as I can...any replies or advice would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!

I sent you a PM.