Have you always been fascinated with firetrucks? Do you have an itch to jump on when you see one zoom past you? If that familiar siren noise gives you an impulse to lend a hand, are physically strong and can act quickly, a fire science major may be for you.
Education
Fire science is most often offered at the certificate and associate degree level. Expect classes like introduction to fire science, fundamentals of fire fighting, fire fighting strategies and tactics, fire behavior and fire investigation. You’ll learn practical techniques and the theories behind them for fighting fire including how to handle fire extinguishers, chain saws and other tools. You’ll learn how to control different types of fires, investigate fires, clear smoke-filled buildings, rescue victims and handle hazardous materials. Some courses that are helpful to take in high school include physics, health science, chemistry and photography.
Questions to ask
Will your training include actual work at a fire station or does the school have a state-of-the-art facility where you can practice skills? Does the program include training in natural disaster recovery and hazardous material cleanup? Are faculty members trained firefighters with substantial experience?
Salary
A firefighter makes $45,250 a year according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistic. The same statistics show that a fire inspector or investigator makes $53,990.
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