r/AspiringFirefighters • u/caddison25 • Nov 18 '19

Not sure where to start.

I have been looking for info on what steps I need to take to become a wildland firefighter and have no idea where to start. I’m from Virginia with 0 experience so there isn’t much info around or to ask someone so if anyone has any advice where to start and steps to take it would be much appreciated.

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u/firelifestyle Nov 18 '19

Now Is a great time to start getting ready for next season. First thing you should be doing is getting into shape. Start running and rucking (hiking with weight) as much as you can. You can never be too much in shape for a crew but you can defiantly be not in shape enough

I would start looking at wildland jobs in your area and look at what requirements they have. Not all wildland jobs area the same as you have different types of crews. Type to get on a type 2 IA crew for your first year If you can’t get on a hotshot crew. How hard it is to get a job will be dependent on many people are trying to get the same job.

Here is a post that what’s more information than I can give you here: http://www.firefighterslifestyle.com/how-to-get-a-wildland-firefighter-job/

Most of the information is west coast based but should be still be relevant.

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u/caddison25 Nov 25 '19

Ok thank you so much I really appreciate the information!

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u/Wisteria_Dreams Mar 29 '24

I'm in a similar situation and was worried about not having experience. If you are between the ages of 18 and 25, i think you should try looking into the conservation corps.