According to the figures published by the US Fire Administration, Minnesota recorded 1.3 deaths and 4.6 injuries per 1,000 fires, figures much better than the national average of 2.3 deaths and 7.2 injuries.

4,440 firefighters are working in the state, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. If you want to join their ranks and are looking for information on how to start your career as a Minnesota firefighter, then read this article.

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Steps to Become a Firefighter in Minnesota

To become a firefighter in Minnesota, here are the general steps and requirements based on the information I found from reliable sources:

Age Requirement
  • You must be at least 18 years old in most departments.
Education
  • A good high school education is essential, along with a commitment to learning.
State Residency and License
  • You need to be a resident of the state and have a valid state license.
Physical Fitness
  • Being physically fit is a crucial requirement.
EMT Training
  • While not mandatory, EMT training is highly recommended.
Training and Education
  • The Minnesota Board of Firefighter Training and Education (MBFTE) promotes excellence in fire service by funding standardized training and licensing Minnesota firefighters. They provide training reimbursement awards to fire departments and establish standards for educational programs for the fire service.
Certification and Licensing
  • The MBFTE is responsible for licensing both full-time and volunteer firefighters in Minnesota. This process involves meeting the qualifications set by the board, which includes standards for fire service training instructors and maintaining a list of qualified instructors.

Salary of Firefighters in Minnesota

As per the data provided by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, firefighters in Minnesota made:

  • Annual Mean Salary: $46,880.
  • Annual Median Salary: $39,540.

As a point of comparison, please see the table below for starting salaries for firefighters for two important Minnesota fire departments:

DepartmentPositionSalary
Saint Paul Fire DepartmentFirefighter62,986.00 per year
Duluth Fire DepartmentFirefighter58,356.00 per year

Career Outlook for Firefighters in Minnesota

A 7% increase in employment opportunities is anticipated for firefighters in Minnesota between 2020 and 2030, as per O*Net Online.

Firefighters Training Academies in Minnesota

In Minnesota, there are several training academies for new firefighter recruits, each offering unique programs and training experiences:

Saint Paul Fire Department Recruit Training Academy

  • This academy features a rigorous 16-week training program designed to equip recruits with essential skills for firefighting and emergency medical fields.
  • Physical training is a daily component, and recruits must pass both academic as well as practical exams which are based on NFPA 1001 Standards for Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications. Graduates are certified to Minnesota State Firefighter I & II levels.

Rochester Fire Department Recruit Academy

  • This academy offers an in-house, paid training program for new recruits. The program, lasting 8-10 weeks, includes comprehensive classroom instruction and practical training in various firefighting techniques and equipment use.
  • It is known for its hands-on, drill-intensive approach. Training covers a wide array of emergency services, including specialized training components like rope rescue, confined space, and hazardous materials technician.

Minneapolis Firefighter Academy

  • At this academy, new cadets undergo a training program lasting three to four months. The program covers response to medical emergencies, structure fires, rooftop ventilation issues, natural gas leaks, hazardous materials, and rail tanker fires.
  • It also includes practical training like aerial ladder rescues, water and ice rescues, and vehicle extrication. Training takes place at the City’s Emergency Operations Training Facility.

Minnesota State Fire Safety Training

  • This statewide program provides high-quality, standardized training across fourteen campuses in Minnesota. They offer various fire training classes, including NFPA 1001 Firefighter I & II, NFPA 1002 for Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator, NFPA 1006/1670 for Technical Rescuer, and several other NFPA standard courses relevant to fire and EMS personnel​​​​.

These academies and training programs provide comprehensive and specialized training, preparing recruits for the diverse and challenging role of a firefighter.

References:
1)Minnesota Fire Loss and Fire Department Profile: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/statistics/states/minnesota.html
2)Firefighter Information | Saint Paul Minnesota: https://www.stpaul.gov/departments/human-resources/jobs/firefighter-information
3)Careers | Home: https://duluthmn.gov/fire/about-us/careers/
4)Minnesota Employment Trends: 33-2011.00 – Firefighters: https://www.onetonline.org/link/localtrends/33-2011.00?st=MN
5)Firefighters: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes332011.htm

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