Process to Become a Firefighter in Delaware
Firefighters in Delaware are going the extra mile to ensure that the state’s citizens are protected from disasters and accidents. Between 1990 and 2018, 14 of these hardworking firefighters lost their lives while protecting others.
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In 2017, the state of Delaware saw an average of 1.3 deaths per 1,000 fires, while the national average was at 2.3. Moreover Delaware had an average of 2.9 injuries per 1000 fires, while the national average was at 9.3.
These statistics show that Delaware has some of the finest firefighters. To become a part of the firefighting force in the state of Delaware, you need to complete the following steps:
The initial step to becoming a firefighter in Delaware is the possession of high school diploma. All prospective firefighters should either have high school education or have a GED.
To become a firefighter in Delaware, you should have a state-issued valid driver’s license.
You should also have a clean criminal record and no felony convictions against your name.
Candidates all across the US have to get through a strict hiring process to become a firefighter and that applies to Delaware as well. Every fire department has its own requirements but generally you will have to clear the following stages:
1- Written Test.
2- Oral Interview.
3- Physical and mental evaluation.
4- Background check.
5- Drug screening.
Once you clear the hiring process, you will have to pass training at a designated fire academy. This is an important part of becoming a firefighter since the time you spend at the academy will teach you everything about combatting raging fires.
You will also need a passing score on the CPAT (Candidate Physical Ability Test). Some fire departments will also require you to have EMT certification.
Requirements to Become a Firefighter in Delaware
There are a total of 58 fire departments in Delaware that are always ready to address any kind of disaster involving a fire outbreak. If you want to join this team of firefighters, then submit your application right now. In order for your application to be successful, you need to meet the requirements stated below:
- Should be a US citizen
- Should hold a GED or a high school diploma
- Should not be younger than 18
- Should have a good moral character, and no criminal history
- Should possess a valid driver’s license
How Long Does It Take to Become a Firefighter in Delaware?
The candidate is required to fill in the application form, attach all required documents, and submit the application before the deadline. Only completed applications, and those that have met the above criteria, will be shortlisted.
After the screening process has been completed, the shortlisted candidates will be called in for a number of tests. These include the physical agility test and the written test. The physical test will assess the candidate’s strength, physical stamina, aerobic ability, and endurance. Whereas the written test will assess the candidate’s problem solving and reasoning skills.
This will be followed by panel/one-to-one interviews that will assess whether the applicant is suited for this job. Background checks are run on the shortlisted candidates who are then sent for drug screening and a physical examination. Those who clear all these stages are hired as probationary firefighters. These recruits are then sent to the firefighting academy for further training.
How Much Does a Firefighter Make in Delaware?
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual mean wage of firefighters in Delaware was $46,970 in 2020. Thus, this career path is quite lucrative.
Although firefighting is a very challenging profession, it does come with an array of rewards and benefits. If you’ve made up your mind about joining this field, then apply right away!
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