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Firefighting is one of the noblest professions. Societies and communities hail firefighters as their heroes. Alongside this, firefighting is among the top preference for young adults as a career choice. 

Working as a firefighter is a challenging task that requires physical and mental agility. A firefighter must have complete technical know-how about firefighting tools and techniques alongside possessing high stamina and decision-making skills in demanding situations. This is why it is crucial to pick a suitable course. 

Courses

What are some of the courses you can pursue to become a firefighter?

Two main degrees required to be a firefighter are:

1. Certificate Course in Firefighting
2. Diploma Course in Firefighting

Certificate Course in Firefighting

Certificate courses are usually 6-9 months long. They focus on developing the foundational skills required for a firefighter to deal with emergency situations by employing the correct protocol. These courses are enough to make students ‘Job Ready.’ 

Diploma Course in Firefighting

Diploma courses are longer, typically a year-long, They deal with providing intrinsic on-ground training backed with a deeper understanding of the field of firefighting. Pursuing a diploma course allows students to have the confidence and knowledge which is central to tackle any pressing situation. 

A good course from a recognised institution can not only equip one with first-hand knowledge and technical know-how but can also help one find a job opportunity. IFE (India) can be a very good option for such aspirants.

What is IFE(India)?

IFE (India) or the Institution of Fire Engineers (India) was established on the recommendations of the Standing Fire Advisory Council constituted by the Chiefs of Fire Services in India and headed by DG CD, Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of India. The Institution was founded in the year 1973 as a premier non-government organization (NGO) and professional body registered under the Societies Act, 1860 as resolved in one of the meetings held under the Chairmanship of the then Dy. Home Minister, Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of India Sh. B.N. Datar. IFE (I) is dedicated to the cause of fire engineers and the fire engineering profession. 

Here is a list of courses that IFE (India) offers:

These courses are designed by experts in the field of firefighting in a specific way to impart all the core skills that are required to be job-ready in the field. Some of the core points that are a part of this course curriculum are:

·         You will be able to learn how to use Fire safety equipment like service pumps, foam-making equipment, and fire extinguishing agents practically.

·         How to use various ranges of fire safety ladders in different environments.

·         Fundamental principle of working safely at heights: How to tackle fire in high-rise buildings or basements.

·         Basic skills to be able to manage a variety of traumatic incidents

·         Recognize emergency care equipment to assist the health care professionals

·         Effective search and rescue techniques in a carbonaceous atmosphere

·         Learn how to deal with Hazardous Materials

·         Learn how to deal with Road Traffic Collisions.

Further, IFE (India) provides job assistance after completion of the courses; the placement cell will help students in setting up interviews with the top-notch companies in the country.

To find out more about IFE (India): https://www.ifeindia.org/  

To enroll with IFE (India) students need to sit for IFENAT, the entrance test organised by the institution. IFENAT, that is, Institution of Fire Engineers National Aptitude Test, organised for Undergraduate and Postgraduate courses for deserving candidates who seek a future as trained firefighters. The test is conducted annually to find the select few with the caliber to be employed as skilled fire safety personnel.

To appear for the test, the applicants can apply at https://www.ifeindia.org/service_training_education_institute.aspx after checking their eligibility. 

Career Path

Entry-level salary in the industry is estimated at around 150000/-

A common question for most young aspirants is- In which sectors can a firefighter be employed?

Fire hazard affects all major manufacturing industries; however, they are not limited to this. A firefighter is employed both by government agencies and private firms. Some examples of these include

·         Electricity boards

·         Construction companies

·         Refineries

·         Oil companies

·         Government Firefighting departments

·         Aviation Industry

·         Fire Safety training institutes

·         Chemical plants

·         Armed Forces

As a firefighting aspirant, it is difficult to find a suitable course from a recognised institution that not only equips you with first-hand knowledge and technical know-how but also helps you find a job opportunity. IFE (India) can be an excellent option for such aspirants.