I Need Some Candian Firefighting Info

[monsta0311]

Im a 24 year old Detroit, MI native. After spending 3 years in the US Army I decided to finally pursue my firefighting career. In the last year I have gotten my EMT Basic certification, my Firefighter 1 and 2 certificiation, and currently am in the process of getting my Paramedic certification. Ive always thought Canada would be an outstanding place to live and am considering moving there to start my career in firefighting. This is a big move though, and I dont have alot of information. A couple big questions I have are whether or not my USA certifications will be valid in Canada. Id rather not do the same training twice. How is the starting pay? What are some differences between US departments and Canadian departments? What are some good cities to look into to start? I like Toronto alot and I hear thats a good city to look into. These are just a few of a million questions I have. Any information you guys could share to assist in helping me come to a more informed decision would be great. Thanks alot and be safe guys

[ffgreg]

Im a 24 year old Detroit, MI native. After spending 3 years in the US Army I decided to finally pursue my firefighting career. In the last year I have gotten my EMT Basic certification, my Firefighter 1 and 2 certificiation, and currently am in the process of getting my Paramedic certification. Ive always thought Canada would be an outstanding place to live and am considering moving there to start my career in firefighting. This is a big move though, and I dont have alot of information. A couple big questions I have are whether or not my USA certifications will be valid in Canada. Id rather not do the same training twice. How is the starting pay? What are some differences between US departments and Canadian departments? What are some good cities to look into to start? I like Toronto alot and I hear thats a good city to look into. These are just a few of a million questions I have. Any information you guys could share to assist in helping me come to a more informed decision would be great. Thanks alot and be safe guys

Welcome aboard Monsta.
If you check some of the older forums, you'll find some threads regarding FF's asking the same question...I think they are in the 'Recruitment' section. There should be some information there regarding the immigration issues you could face (assuming you're not a dual citizen).
Your certifications may or may not be valid. Firefighter 1 and 2 (NFPA 1001) is an excellent qualification, but you'll probably have to prove you've gotten the (ProBoard or IFSAC seals). I've heard there is a school in the Detroit area that teaches NFPA 1001, but its not recognized by either body (that's my understanding), so if that's where you got your 1001, it's not going to mean much here.
In addition, here in Ontario, the preference seems to be moving to the college's Pre-Service course. Departments aren't requiring it (yet?), but it does seem to be the trend, at least in the larger cities.
Same with your EMT and Paramedic qualifications...they don't translate well here. I mean, obviously you've got the qualification, but the certification doesn't come with you. All paramedics in Ontario take a 2 year course. In the other provinces, there are Primary Care Paramedics, EMT-B's (I think...can someone clarify that), but you have to be licensed by the Provincial College of Paramedics.
Your military background would be a definite asset anywhere.
Starting pay is in the low to mid 40's. You stay there for 6-12 months and then increments come annually until you reach First Class, which is mid-60's, depending on the city.

Hope that helps.
Good luck with it!