Search College Website

• Orientation
• Important Dates
• Academic Forms
• Registration Schedule

• A-Z Programs
• FAQs
• Graduation Info

program categories >> F's in alphabetical list

Description

This program addresses the competency and occupational based curriculum designed to further the Ontario fire service professionalization process. The curriculum design is based on the Ontario Firefighter Standards (revised 2008), the Pre-Entry Program and the Ontario Firefighter Curriculum and is supported by the Ontario Fire Marshal's Office (OFM) and the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC).

Upon successful completion of the program, the graduate will be eligible to undergo provincial testing to meet the requirements of the Office of the Fire Marshal. Upon being hired by a fire department and after a time period deemed appropriate by the chief, the firefighter may apply to the Ontario Fire College to receive the OFC Certificate of Achievement.

Content will provide the successful graduate with knowledge and skills in the following areas: basic fire science, fire suppression principles and practices, firefighter first responder emergency patient care, fire prevention/public education and specialty modules such as confined space and environmental hazards. Students will be provided with opportunities to practice and test in simulated and controlled live fire training situations in locations such as the Ontario Fire College and the College's fire training centre.

Career Opportunities

Successful graduates will find employment opportunities in the following areas:

* Professional Firefighting

* Fire Inspection

* Fire Prevention and Public Education

* Private Fire Service

* Ministry of Natural Resources

* Volunteer Firefighter

Program Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• apply skills and knowledge associated with efficient and effective fire services;
• develop the necessary vocational, general education, and generic skills that promote career path eligibility and lifelong learning;
• meet the ethical, legal and safety requirements inherent in professional fire services;
• engage safe practices and techniques when using fire department apparatus, tools and equipment;
• effectively communicate using common fire service terminology both verbally and in writing;
• interact effectively with other members of the critical care team within diverse communities;
• participate in community and civic learning experiences;
• employ environmentally sustainable practices within the profession.

Program Progression

Fall Intake

Sem 1 - Fall 2011

Sem 2 - Winter 2012

Sem 3 - Summer 2012

Winter Intake

Sem 1 - Winter 2012

Sem 2 - Summer 2012

Sem 3 - Fall 2012

Note: To confirm Winter (January) start, please contact the Office of the Registrar.

External Recognition

The Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC) through the Endorsement Review Board (ERB) endorses the program content of the Pre-Service Firefighter Education and Training Program. This curriculum is based on the Ontario Fire Marshal's "Ontario Standardized Curriculum for Firefighters (2008)" which meets the body of knowledge and practical skills required to meet the job-related performance objectives specified in the Ontario Fire Services Firefighter Standards. Graduates of the Pre-Service Firefighter Education and Training Program are eligible to write the OFM Provincial Firefighter Test.

Admission Requirements

Applicants following the OSS curriculum must have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD - 30 credits) or equivalent. Applicants following the OSS curriculum require Grade 12 English (C) or (U) (ENG4C, ENG4U), any Grade 12 College Mathematics (MAP4C or MCT4C), or any Grade 12 University Mathematics. Also required: any Grade 11 College or Grade 11 or 12 University Biology (SB13C, SB13U or SB14U ) and Grade 12 College Chemistry, or Grade 11 or 12 University Chemistry or Grade 12 University Exercise Science (SCH4C, SCH4U, SCH3U, PSE4U).

Applicants are expected to attend a group orientation session prior to the beginning of the September or January semester.

Applicants who are 19 years of age or over by the first day of classes, and who lack the academic entrance qualifications, may be considered for entrance to an appropriate post-secondary diploma or certificate program as mature applicants. Each applicant will be considered on an individual basis and acceptance will be determined by counselling, Communication Placement Assessment (CPA), previous post-secondary education and evaluation of experience. Some programs also have specific prerequisite requirements that must be met prior to admission. Mature applicants must meet all program specific prerequisites. Those applying as mature students and having no documentation of Grade 12 education must supply, if required, proof of age, such as a copy of an official birth certificate or driver's licence. Refer to Sections 2.5 and 2.6 of the Academic Calendar for further details.

Criminal Reference Check

Field placement agencies require an up-to-date clear criminal reference check and vulnerable sector check prior to the start of the program. Students should obtain their criminal reference check no sooner than one month prior to the beginning of the school year; checks conducted earlier may not be considered current. Students are required to provide these checks prior to program start. NOTE: A record of criminal offences, for which a pardon has not been granted, may prevent the student from completing graduation requirements.

Standard First Aid/ CPR and Immunization Record

Applicants must have an up-to-date immunization record. CPR Basic Rescue Certificate (Level C or higher) and Standard First Aid Certificate must be maintained throughout the program. Please submit a copy of both prior to program start.

Selection Process

Selection will be based on academic grades, selection test, resume, and portfolio. Applicants must submit a documented portfolio detailing past achievements, work experience and educational background (including all continuing education, seminars and any related activities). Volunteer work and team activities must be substantiated by hours, copies of certificates and reference letters. The selection test is a Firefighter Aptitude Test consisting of mathematical reasoning, problem solving and analytical reasoning relating to firefighting.

Please note: A hiring municipality or fire department will have additional special requirements for those entering a career as a firefighter. Students wishing to pursue such careers should ensure that they will be able to meet the physical and educational requirements before enrolling. Potential students with a criminal record will need to discuss their personal situation with college counsellors before enrolling in the program. In some cases, an official criminal record may make it more difficult for students to complete the program requirements and find related employment after graduation. Specifically, students are required to submit a Clear Vulnerable Sector Records Check and Criminal Record Check prior to the first day of classes in order to meet graduation requirements for community based activities.

Physical Fitness: Students must be physically fit to participate. A waiver and informed consent indicating the ability to perform the physical fitness and physical duties is required in firefighter training. Knowledge of possessing the lack of acrophobia (fear of heights) and claustrophobia (fear of confined spaces) will be required as part of the orientation process when starting the program. If you are unsure of your health status or phobias, you should consult your doctor prior to entering the program as these may preclude you from gaining employment in firefighting. Students must submit a York Firefighter Fitness Test or CPAT certificate by the end of second semester.

Medical Considerations

Vision: Uncorrected Visual Acuity should be at least 6/12 (20/40) binocularly (both eyes). Corrected Visual Acuity should be at least 6/6 (20/20) binocularly. There are additional minimum requirements regarding refractive surgery farsightedness (hyperopia), colour vision, depth perception and peripheral vision. No marked degree of colour blindness is permitted.

Hearing: Normal unaided hearing at frequencies of 500 to 4000 Hz measured by audiometer.

Graduation Requirements

24 Mandatory Courses

1 Communications Course

2 General Education Courses

Graduation Eligibility

To graduate from this program, the passing weighted average for promotion through each semester, from year to year and to graduate is 60%. Additionally, a student must attain a minimum of 50% or a letter grade of P (Pass) or S (Satisfactory) in each course in each semester.

Mandatory

FIRE1000 Introduction to Fire Service

FIRE1012 Environmental Protection

FIRE1019 Public Education and Fire Protection Systems

FIRE1025 Firefighter and Apparatus Safety

FIRE1026 Fitness Training for Firefighters

FIRE1027 Rescue and Protective Equipment

FIRE1028 Introduction to FF Emergency Patient Care Theory

FIRE1029 Introduction to FF Emergency Patient Care Practical

FIRE1030 Firefighter Rescue Practical 1

FIRE1031 Incident Management for Firefighters

FIRE1032 Fire Safety Inspections for Firefighters

FIRE1033 Advanced Emergency Patient Care Theory

FIRE1034 Advanced Emergency Patient Care Practical

FIRE1035 Firefighting Techniques

FIRE1036 Career Prep for Firefighting

FIRE1037 Introduction to Pre-Graduate Experience

FIRE1038 Specialized Rescue Operations for Firefighters

FIRE1039 Firefighter Rescue Practical 2

FIRE1040 Vehicle Rescue and Extrication Theory

FIRE1041 Vehicle Rescue and Extrication Practical

FIRE1042 Advanced Fireground and Wildland Fire Operations

FIRE1043 Community Experience

FIRE1044 Advanced Pre-Graduate Experience

FIRE1045 Firefighter Rescue Practical 3

The descriptions that follow provide brief outlines of the courses. Please note that some courses have prerequisite and/or corequisite requirements not shown here, that need to be met in order to enroll in the course. You will be advised of any requisite requirements during the registration process, or you can contact the academic area for further details.

Communications

COMM1000 College Communications

COMM1000 Communications at Work

General Education Courses

To be selected from College list

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

COMM1000 College Communications 42.0 Hours

Effective communication skills are essential for success in college and career. This entry level course promotes development of college level skills related to information literacy and current communication technology. Students focus on writing, researching, presenting, editing and proofreading. They incorporate writing conventions, analyze and evaluate information, and prepare and deliver ideas orally. In addition, they edit and proofread their own and others' writing.

COMM1001 Communications at Work 42.0 Hours

Students develop their communication skills for the workplace. Using available technology, they research, write and edit work-related correspondence and short reports, individually and collaboratively. With audio-visual support, they prepare and deliver professional presentations that have vocational emphasis. In addition, students complete other communication tasks specific to their vocational areas.

FIRE1000 Introduction to Fire Service 42.0 Hours

This theoretical course provides an overview of the Ontario Fire Service, the professionalization process, fire and emergency services organizations, and the role and responsibilities of the firefighter. It will also define fire and its behaviour from ignition to extinguishment. Fire will be studied from a physical and chemical standpoint as well as stages and classes of fires. Methods of heat/fire spread and methods used to control and extinguish fire will be explained. Building construction and its role in firefighting operations will also be discussed. An introduction to Fire Ground Communications will be studied. Specific knowledge, attitudes, and skills of the firefighter will be included. Specific knowledge, attitudes, and skills of the firefighter will provide the basis for the Practical testing in FIRE1030 Firefighter Rescue Practical 1.

FIRE1012 Environmental Protection 42.0 Hours

This theoretical course will describe the procedures associated with electrical emergencies, awareness of hazardous materials, and to the operations level of hazardous material responses. Response to natural disasters and terrorism awareness will also be studied. These specific knowledge, attitudes, and skills of the firefighter will provide the basis for the Practical testing in FIRE1045 Firefighter Rescue Practical 3.

FIRE1019 Public Education and Introduction to Fire Protection Systems 42.0 Hours

This course will focus on the leadership and legislative roles of the firefighter as they pertain to performing public education and public relations activities. This course will also introduce the student to fire protection systems. Specific knowledge, attitudes, and skills of the firefighter will provide the basis for the Practical testing in FIRE 1030 Firefighter Rescue Practical.

FIRE1025 Firefighter and Apparatus Safety 28.0 Hours

This course focuses on the theory of firefighter safety principles and practices along with the introduction of related legislation. Rules, regulations and procedures concerning the operation of fire apparatus will be discussed along with an introduction to the fire pump, equipment/truck inspections and the application of fire service hydraulics. Familiarization of commonly used tools for forcible entry and ventilation will be examined.

FIRE1026 Fitness Training for Firefighters 28.0 Hours

This course will look at the physical training required to be successful in Firefighting. Integrating different training regiments, fitness testing and integrating components of specific Bona Fide Occupational requirements into simulated job-related assessments, students will be exposed to techniques to assist them in developing physical skills to be successful in firefighter entrance testing requirements.

FIRE1027 Rescue and Protective Equipment 42.0 Hours

This theoretical course will introduce and apply aspects of fire ground operations specializing in protective equipment, use and maintenance of self-contained breathing apparatus. Common tools and equipment used in the fire service will be introduced along with their uses and methods of operation. Basic search and rescue operations and techniques will be explored. These specific knowledge, attitudes, and skills of the firefighter will provide the basis for the Practical testing in FIRE1030 Firefighter Rescue Practical 1.

FIRE1028 Introduction to Firefighter Emergency Patient Care Theory 28.0 Hours

This course will provide an introduction to the emergency medical care system. Also, theory and techniques related to anatomy, physiology, patient early intervention and appropriate assessment for common medical, and trauma emergencies will be described. These specific knowledge, attitudes, and skills will provide the basis for Practical testing in FIRE1029 Introduction to Firefighter Emergency Patient Care Practical.

FIRE1029 Introduction to Firefighter Emergency Patient Care Practical 14.0 Hours

This course assess the specific knowledge attitude and skills necessary to provide adequate patient early intervention and appropriate assessment for common medical and trauma emergencies covered in FIRE1028 Introduction to Firefighter Emergency Patient Care Theory.

FIRE1030 Firefighter Rescue Practical 1 42 Hours

This evaluation process is a skills assessment process whereby after the introduction of the hands-on components and sufficient practice time in, the student is expected to demonstrate a complete understanding of and the ability to perform the testing requirements of the specific learned skills including fire safety inspection, protective equipment, rescue skills and flashover. Assessment of skills will also include protective clothing and equipment, breathing apparatus, simulated search and rescue techniques, ropes, knots and ladders, water supplies, hose and appliances, and fire streams. The evaluation is conducted using a standard check off sheet for each step of the developed skill and in some cases a timed element is part of the evaluation process.

FIRE1031 Incident Management for Firefighters 42.0 Hours

This theoretical course provides an overview of the Incident Management System, as well as firefighter site evaluation and decision- making. Also, an introduction to the firefighter's role in Fire Cause Determination and Post Incident Analysis will be discussed. Fireground Communications will be reinforced from first semester. These specific knowledge, attitudes, and skills of the firefighter will provide the basis for the Practical testing in FIRE1039 Firefighter Rescue Practical 2.

FIRE1032 Fire Safety Inspections for firefighters 42.0 Hours

This theoretical course will provide a clear understanding of fire prevention activities such as fire safety inspection, fire protection systems, and fire detection systems. Pre-Incident Planning will be studied as well as the firefighter's role in overhaul. These specific knowledge, attitudes, and skills of the firefighter will provide the basis for the Practical testing in FIRE1039 Firefighter Rescue Practical 2.

FIRE1033 Advanced Emergency Patient Care and Firefighter Theory 28.0 Hours

This theoretical course will build on the knowledge of common medical and trauma emergencies. Patient care, management of emergency conditions will be included in the course. These specific knowledge, attitudes, and skills will provide the basis for Practical testing in FIRE1034 Advanced Emergency Patient Care Practical.

FIRE1034 Advanced Emergency Patient Care Practical 14.0 Hours

This course assess the specific knowledge attitude and skills necessary to provide adequate patient early intervention and appropriate assessment for common medical and trauma emergencies covered in FIRE1033 Advanced Emergency Patient Care Theory.

FIRE1035 Firefighting Techniques 42.0 Hours

This theoretical course provides an understanding of urban and rural methods of water supply. The uses, characteristics and limitations of fire service hoses, appliances and fire attack lines are discussed in detail. Techniques, skills and rationales associated with the use of forcible entry tools and ventilation will be fully developed. The theory and practical application of fire steams will be described in depth. These specific knowledge, attitudes, and skills of the firefighter will provide the basis for the Practical testing in FIRE1039 Firefighter Rescue Practical 2.

FIRE1036 Career Prep for Firefighting 28.0 Hours

This course provides an understanding of the current fire service hiring practices, interviews and testing. Students will learn how to effectively manage their time by identifying goals, creating semester plans, recognizing obstacles and how to deal effective plan for their career path.

FIRE1037 Introduction Pre-Graduate Preparation 42.0 Hours

This course will help prepare the learner for the 3rd semester Pre-Graduate experience. Job-related physical fitness components and flashover awareness training will be covered. Specific knowledge, attitudes, and skills of the firefighter will be included to assess skills learnt in FIRE1030, FIRE1033, and FIRE1035.

FIRE1038 Specialized Rescue Operations for Firefighters 42.0 Hours

This theoretical course will provide an introduction to technical rope rescue and knots, confined space/high-angle rescue, land-based water/ice rescue, firefighter survival skills and trench rescue. Specific knowledge, attitudes, and skills of the firefighter will be assessed. These specific knowledge, attitudes, and skills of the firefighter will provide the basis for the Practical testing in FIRE1039 Firefighter Rescue Practical 2.

FIRE1039 Firefighter Rescue Practical 2 42.0 Hours

This evaluation process is a skills assessment process whereby after the introduction of the hands-on components and sufficient practice time in, the student is expected to demonstrate a complete understanding of and the ability to perform the testing requirements of the specific learned skills including fire inspections, preplanning, water supply, fire streams, forcible entry, hose and appliances, confined space and firefighter survival. The evaluation is conducted using a standard check off sheet for each step of the developed skill and in some cases a timed element is part of the evaluation process.

FIRE1040 Vehicle Rescue and Extrication Theory 28.0 Hours

This theoretical course provides an introduction to rescue, and will focus on the generic and specialized rescue skills necessary for a firefighter/rescuer to safely and effectively conduct auto extrication. It will also introduce advanced specialized extrication skills. These specific knowledge, attitudes, and skills of the firefighter will provide the basis for the Practical testing in FIRE1041 Vehicle Rescue and Extrication Practical.

FIRE1041 Vehicle Rescue and Extrication Practical 14.0 Hours

This Practical course assess the skills developed to provide generic and specialized rescue skills necessary for a firefighter/rescuer to safely and effectively conduct auto extrication covered in FIRE1040, Vehicle Rescue and Extrication Theory.

FIRE1042 Advanced Fireground and Wildland Fire Operations 42.0 Hours

This course will discuss the concept of ventilation and how it applies to a fire service. An understanding of the water extinguishment theory, equipment and techniques in fire suppression and ventilation operations will be developed and put into practice. Advanced search and rescue techniques will be developed and applied. This course will also provide the learner with knowledge of class B firefighting fire suppression techniques including portable extinguishers and foam. Applications in wildland firefighting will be studied. The learner will also be provided with a practical knowledge of fire service hydraulics. These specific knowledge, attitudes, and skills of the firefighter will provide the basis for the Practical testing in FIRE1045 Firefighter Rescue 3.

FIRE 1043 Community Experience 42 Hours

This course will focus on the important role of the firefighter in the community reflected in activities and initiatives in the area of fire prevention, patient care environment, paramedic systems, instructional techniques, fire safety and communications/dispatch. Specific Bona Fide Occupational skills will be reinforced to maintain fitness standards achieved in the previous two semesters.

FIRE1044 Advanced Pre-Graduate Experience 42.0 Hours

Building on the Introduction to Pre-Graduate Experience course (FIRE1035), this Pre-Graduate experience will provide the learner with the opportunity to reinforce specific fire service critical practical skills, as well as academic preparation for the Provincial Firefighter exam. Specific knowledge, attitudes, and skills of the firefighter will be included.

FIRE1045 Firefighter Rescue Practical 3 84.0 Hours

This evaluation process is a skills assessment process whereby after the introduction of the hands-on components and sufficient practice time in, the student is expected to demonstrate a complete understanding of and the ability to perform the testing requirements of the specific learned skills in extinguishers, firefighting techniques, vehicle operation, pump operation, forcible entry, ventilation, search and rescue, salvage, overhaul, fire scene management and control, post incident review and fire cause determination . The evaluation is conducted using a standard check off sheet for each step of the developed skill and in some cases a timed element is part of the evaluation process.

How To Apply

Last Update: March 08, 2012.