How to Become A Firefighter in Rhode Island

According to data reported by the US Fire Administration in 2018, the state of Rhode Island had an average of 0.4 deaths and 12.8 injuries per 1,000 fires. Whereas, the national average was reported as 2.5 deaths and 9.8 injuries per 1,000 fires.

Should I Become a Firefighter in Rhode Island?

All interested individuals who want to be employed as Firefighters in the state of Rhode Island are highly encouraged to earn the EMT certification. In addition to that, they must be residents of this state and have completed at least a High School Diploma/GED. Further hiring requirements are detailed as follows.

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

Career Outlook

Firefighters are predicted to experience a 5% employment growth between 2018 and 2028 by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Moreover, 324,620 Firefighters were serving the US residents in 2019 and 1,440 of those were employed in the state of Rhode Island.

Steps to Become a Firefighter in Rhode Island

Do you want to be employed as a Firefighter in the state of Rhode Island? Well, here is a complete hiring guide that outlines the whole hiring process.

1. Earn a High School Degree/GED

To become a Firefighter in the state of Rhode Island, all candidates must have earned at least a high school diploma or a GED. It is important to know that many local fire departments and stations have additional hiring requirements and prefer hiring candidates who have completed a college degree in Fire Science.

2. Clear the Required Tests of the Hiring Process

After applying for the post of a Firefighter in the state of Rhode Island, all the candidates are required to clear the following tests if they want to be considered for the job.

• A complete medical exam-including physical and psychological assessment
• The physical ability test (CPAT)
• A written exam
• Detailed background check
• An oral interview, etc.

3. Become a Certified EMT

All aspiring Firefighters in the state of Rhode Island are highly recommended to become certified Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs).

4. Get the Firefighter I/II Certification

All Firefighters in that state of Rhode Island must acquire the status of Firefighter I/II. This certification can be earned by enrolling at a Fire Academy and completing the training to successfully graduate. All recruits are given training at a Fire Academy before they join their post.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Firefighter in Rhode Island?

From applying for the position to getting hired, the complete process may take approximately 4 to 6 months. That is only if you apply to become a Firefighter in Rhode Island after graduating from High School or completing a GED as well as earning the EMT certification.

What Are the Requirements of Becoming a Firefighter in Rhode Island?

If you want to become a Rhode Island Firefighter, you must fulfill the following requirements:

• Be a US citizen
• Be 18 years of age or older
• Possess a High School Diploma or GED
• Be a resident of Rhode Island
• Have a clear criminal record
• Hold a valid Rhode Island driver’s license
• Clear a drug test and complete medical exam

How Much Can I Make as a Firefighter in Rhode Island?

In 2019, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported the annual mean salary of Firefighters employed in the state of Rhode Island as $56,150.