Skip to main content

Firefighting/Emergency Medical Service

A large group of firefighters in dark uniforms and helmets pose together outdoors.

Career Expectations

  • Identification/Vaccination/Drug Screening
    • Government-issued photo ID
    • Current flu vaccine
    • Negative blood or two-step TB skin test
    • Immunization Record (hepatitis B, measles/mumps/rubella, chickenpox)
    • Drug screening (9-12 panel, including marijuana)
  • Firefighter I & II Certification
    • Meet State of Ohio background/character requirements
      • No felony conviction or pending felony/misdemeanor charges or adjudicated mentally incompetent
    • Meet State National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) medical requirements
      • Physical exam complying with NFPA 1582 Chapter 5.1.3
      • Current use of medications listed in NFPA 1582 Table 9.3 is disqualifying
      • Psychiatric/psychological condition in NFPA 1582 Table 9.3
    • Complete FEMA courses: NIMS IS700 and ICS IS100 (or equivalent)
    • Complete and pass NFPA instruction/exams
    • Wear turnout gear and firefighter suit/self-contained breathing apparatus
  • Emergency Medical Technician Certification
    • Meet State of Ohio background/character requirements
      • No felony conviction or pending felony/misdemeanor charges or adjudicated mentally incompetent

 

A person is being wheeled out of the back of an ambulance by medical personnel.

Ohio Department of Education & Workforce Development Courses

Year 1

  • Foundations of Firefighting and Emergency Medical Services 
  • Homeland Security Protecting America’s Infrastructure
  • Firefighter I 

Year 2

  • Firefighter II
  • Emergency Medical Technician 

 

View complete course guide here

Next Ready Skills

At Great Oaks, you’ll do more than learn a trade; you’ll master NextReady skills like clear communication and problem-solving that help you get hired. You will get a head start on building a professional reputation for being dependable, adaptable, and technically skilled before you even graduate

Effective Communicators

Fill out precise incident documentation, use active listening skills in emergency situations, provide technical information about drills while collaborating with other public safety agencies.

Critical Thinkers

Keep up to date with current fire science technology, perform situational analyses under pressure, manage operational risks, and engage in response reflection.

Adapt­able Navigators

Follow changes in emergency protocols, demonstrate tactical agility, respond appropriately to unexpected change, and remain engaged in changing emergency situations.

Account­able Employees

Take ownership of team/situation safety, follow proper incident protocols, communicate with professional respect, and maintain public safety ethical practices.

Skilled Professionals

Model firefighter leadership and fitness, achieve technical mastery of rescue tools, demonstrate competence in emergency situations, and prioritize scene safety.

Bottom Line: If you have courage, enjoy physical fitness, and want a career dedicated to serving others in their worst moments, Firefighting/Emergency Medical Services may be right for you.

Contact the Instructor