Fire & Rescue

Course Description:

The Fire & Rescue program introduces students to the field of Fire Science and Emergency Response. This course is physically demanding and requires students to submit an athletic physical before participating in the required practical training.  Attendance requirements, (including Saturday classes once a month), and academic performance requirements are required to be eligible to take the Fire Fighter I & II certification test.

The course offers two tracks:

• Career Exploration Track: Students will explore careers in fire service, public safety, and emergency response through hands-on learning, guest speakers, simulations, and fire ground operations. This track is ideal for students curious about the fire service and related careers.
  • CPR certification
• Advanced Certification Track: Motivated students may elect to pursue additional training aligned with the State of Michigan curriculum through LARA (Licensing and Regulatory Affairs). Students meeting the required competencies will be eligible to earn:
  • Fire Fighter I & II Certification (State of Michigan)
  • Hazardous Materials Operations Certification
  • CPR Certification 

Students who would benefit from this program

Course Outline:

The program follows the LARA-approved curriculum for Fire Fighter I & II:

1st Semester:  General Fire Service Knowledge, Building Construction, Fire Behavior, Fire Suppression, Ropes and Knots, Forcible Entry and Ladder Safety

2nd Semester: Search and Rescue, Ventilation, Advanced Fire Suppression, Hazardous Materials, and Extrication,

High School Credit:

Students will earn elective credit at their high school upon completion of this course. Please see a high school counselor for eligibility towards 4th-year math-related credit, VPAA credit, and waived credits for third-year science and second-year world language.

College Credit: Kalamazoo Valley CC offers articulated college credit for students earning the FF I & II certification. 

Length of Program:

1 year, with option to return