The pre-service firefighter education and training is a one-year post-secondary program that teaches potential firefighting professionals theoretical and practical aspects of firefighting. It aims to help students develop skills in fire suppression, rescue operations and environmental protection. Graduates of a pre-service firefighter program are capable of:
  • Working with fire-service teams and pre-hospital emergency care providers
  • Providing support as a team member in emergency and non-emergency situations
  • Using problem solving and decision making skills in emergency and non-emergency situations
  • Demonstrating confidence, professionalism and sensitivity in a variety of emergency and non-emergency situations
  • Using safe practices and techniques with apparatus, tools and equipments of fire department
  • Communicating effectively using electronic, written, verbal and non-verbal methods of communication
  • Ensuring ethical, safety and legal requirements for operating in fire safety industry
  • Developing the skills required to suppress fire, educate community, offer firefighter emergency patient care, protect environment and conduct special rescue operations
  • Working in teams with a strong desire to make a difference in the lives of others

The profession of firefighting is not for everyone. Those who are genuinely interested in serving others and having a strong desire to make a meaningful difference in their lives should consider entering the fire service industry. The job also demands emotional stability and ability to work in flexible shifts and stressful situations.

Pre-service Firefighter Courses in Canada

The pre-service firefighter courses in Canada typically run for one year and cover a wide range of subjects including:
  • Introduction to fire service
  • Fire ground operations
  • Emergency patient care
  • Fire equipment
  • Fire suppression
  • Rescue operations
  • Environmental protection
  • Fire safety inspection
  • Professional preparation
  • Social analysis to social action

Students also gain practical experience in rescue operations and fire suppression while utilizing training facilities at Toronto Fire Services and the state-of-the-art patient care lab.

Enrollment Guide

In order to apply for a pre-service firefighter course, you will need:
  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma
  • English Grade 12 C or University or equivalent
  • Mathematics Grade 11 M or 12 C or University or equivalent
  • One Science Grade 11 or 12 (Physics, Chemistry, Biology or Exercise Science)
  • To complete a self-identifying questionnaire

After admission, you will need to submit:
  • Clear police check with vulnerable sector screening
  • Clear medical report
  • Proof of immunization
  • Complete CPR and First Aid Training
  • Class DZ driving licence

In addition, you should also have 20/30 vision in each eye without corrective lenses and normal unaided hearing.

Choosing the Right College in Ontario

A number of colleges in Ontario offer pre-service firefighter education and training. Unfortunately, not all are accredited to a state governing body. While choosing a college in Canada, ensure that the program:
  • Curriculum is approved by the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC) and the Ontario Office of the Fire Marshall (OFM)
  • Combines theory and practical
  • Provides field placement
  • Makes you eligible to write the Ontario Fire Marshall Provincial Testing
  • Is taught in partnership with Toronto Fire Services

Centennial College's pre-service firefighter education and training program meets all these criteria and prepares you for an exciting career in fire service industry.