How to Become A Firefighter in Mississippi

The US Fire Administration reported an average of 4.0 deaths and 4.7 injuries per 1,000 fires in the state of Mississippi in 2018. Whereas, the national average was reported as 2.5 deaths and 9.8 injuries per 1,000 fires.

Should I Become a Firefighter in Mississippi?

The state of Mississippi mandates its Firefighters to earn an EMT or Paramedic certification. They must also be able to perform CPR and hold a valid license to do so. The local fire departments/stations usually hire individuals who have earned a college/university degree even though the state requires at least a high school degree from its candidates. Further hiring requirements are explained below.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2019)

Career Outlook

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics has projected a 5% employment increase for Firefighters employed in the US from 2018 to 2028. The state of Mississippi was home to 3,280 Firefighters in 2019.

Steps to Becoming a Firefighter in Mississippi

This detailed stepwise career guideline is for those who are interested in working as Firefighters in Mississippi.

1. Completing a High School Degree or a GED

Even though the state of Mississippi requires its Firefighters to have earned at least a High School Degree or a GED, most local fire departments or stations hire candidates with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Fire Science. This ensures a better fire management system.

2. Clearing the Mandatory Tests

Once you apply for the post of a Firefighter at a local fire department or station, they scrutinize candidates using a series of tests that include,

• The Candidates’ Physical Agility Test (CPAT)
• Written exam
• Oral interview
• Physical and psychological health assessment
• Complete background check, etc.

3. Getting Certified as an EMT

The state of Mississippi mandates all Firefighters to be certified as an EMT or a Paramedic. In addition to that, Firefighters must also be able to perform CPR and hold valid certifications in both. Apart from that, they must hold Firefighter I/II certifications.

4. Joining a Fire Academy or a Fire Department/Station

Once hired by the local fire department or station, you will be required to complete the basic Firefighter course within 1 year. This course takes about 6 weeks to complete. However, if you choose to volunteer instead of going to a fire academy, you would not be required to complete this course.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Firefighter in Mississippi?

To become employed as a firefighter in the State of Mississippi, you need to get hired by a local fire department or a fire station. It may take you about 1-2 years to get hired in this position depending on which degree and certification you choose to complete.

What Are the Requirements of Becoming a Firefighter in Mississippi?

To become employed as a Firefighter in the state of Mississippi, all candidates must:

• Clear the CPAT test
• Go through and clear the detailed background check
• Possess Firefighter I/II certification
• Be at least 18 years old resident of Mississippi
• Hold a valid state-issued driving license
• Possess either of the following:
  • At least a High School Diploma or a GED,

OR

• A 2-year college degree or a 4-year university degree

• Hold a current CPR Card issued by the American Heart Association, American Red Cross, or equivalent
• Be certified as an Emergency Medical Technician or get First Responder Training as an EMT First Aid Class
• Clear the Physical Examination

How Much Can I Make as a Firefighter in Mississippi?

According to the data reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in 2019, Firefighters employed in the state of Mississippi earned an annual mean salary of $30,180. Moreover, California was reported as the highest paying state for this career with an annual mean salary of $84,370.

Firefighters in Other Cities and States:

How to Become a Firefighter in Mississippi

Here is all the information you need about how to become a firefighter in Mississippi. You will need high school education or a GED as the minimum education. On top of that, you will have to clear the CPAT, get EMT certification, pass training at the fire academy, have firefighter I/II certifications, and should also possess a valid Mississippi driver’s license. Every fire station in the state, will have its own specific requirements so it is imperative that you conduct thorough research about the requirements needed to join the fire station.