How to Become A Firefighter in Indiana

In 2018, the state of Indiana was reported to have an average of 3.1 deaths and 9.6 injuries per 1,000 fires by the US Fire Administration. The national average was 2.5 deaths and 9.8 injuries per 1,000 fires. The number of deaths in Indiana was higher than the overall national average.

Should I Become a Firefighter in Indiana?

Indiana employs Firefighters with at least a high school diploma or a GED who are committed to achieving further education in Fire Science. Firefighters in Indiana are not mandated to hold an EMT/Paramedic certification. However, candidates who hold such certifications are preferred. Further state-set requirements have been detailed below.

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

Career Outlook

As projected by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Firefighters are predicted to see a 5% employment growth from 2018 to 2028. In 2019, 324,620 Firefighters were working in the US and 7,980 of them were employed in the state of Indiana. The BLS reported that Firefighter’s employment numbers are expected to rise to 350,000 by 2028.

Steps to Become a Firefighter in Indiana

If your passion is to serve your community as a brave firefighter who rescues people by risking his/her own life, then following this stepwise guide can help you turn that into a reality.

Step-1: Completing the Education Requirements

It is important to know that Firefighters in Indiana are required to complete at least a High School degree or GED but they are hired only if they are committed to pursuing further education such as an associate’s/bachelor’s degree in Fire Science.

Step-2: Getting Certified as a Firefighter and an EMT

Although the state of Indiana does not mandate its firefighters to become certified EMTs, it is preferred that all Firefighters obtain an EMT/Paramedic certification. Not only that, but all candidates must also get certified as Firefighter I/II.

Step-3: Passing all State-required Tests

Several mandatory tests must be cleared by all prospective candidates if they want to be employed in the state of Indiana. These tests include,

• A written test
• An oral interview
• The Candidates’ Physical Ability Test (CPAT)
• A complete medical check-up including physical and psychological evaluations
• Background check
• Drug tests, and so on

Step-4: Graduating from the Fire Academy

If you want to officially work as a Firefighter in this state, you must complete the mandatory training at a Fire Academy. The training provided to recruits at these academies teaches them all codes & procedures related to fire emergencies. Fire Academies aim to provide hands-on experience to all recruits regarding safe handling of fire equipment, methods of putting out fires and rescuing people, etc.

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

The duration from submission of an application to the official posting as a Firefighter in the state of Indiana may vary for each individual but typically takes approx. 2 to 3 years. Most fire departments/stations in Indiana hire candidates with a college degree (associate’s/bachelor’s) in Fire Science even though the state mandates a minimum education of High School Diploma.

What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Firefighter in Indiana?

Becoming a Firefighter in the state of Indiana means that you must complete all the requirements that have been set by the state as well as those that are set by the local Fire Departments/Stations. Candidates who are determined to work as Firefighters in this state must,

• Be 21 years old legal US citizen
• Have earned at least a high school diploma or a GED (with a commitment to complete higher education)
• Be residents of the state of Indiana
• Possess a valid Indiana state’s driver’s license
• Clear the following tests,
  • A written and oral test
  • Interview
  • The Candidates’ Physical Ability Test
  • Physical and Psychological exams
  • Background check
  • Drug tests, etc.

How Much Can I Make as a Firefighter in Indiana?

The salary details reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in 2019 state that Firefighters in Indiana earned an annual mean salary of $51,050 in 2019.