How To Become A Fire Inspector

Step 1: Study Math and Science in High School

Fire Inspectors use science and math to help analyze the fire safety of buildings and protect against fires. High school students should focus on these subjects to prepare for this career. Students should also stay in shape to ensure that they meet the physical requirements to work as a Firefighter, which is a necessary step to becoming a Fire Inspector.

Step 2: Earn a College Degree

While Fire Inspectors do not typically need college degrees, earning a degree leads to more career options. Aspiring Fire Inspectors who earn college degrees can learn management techniques and problem-solving skills for managing other workers.

Fire Science is a common major for Fire Inspectors with Associate’s Degrees and Bachelor’s Degrees. Fire Science teaches students the science behind fire. They also learn fire prevention techniques and the flammability of different materials.

Earning a Fire Science degree may also eliminate the need to take separate EMT training and Firefighter training at an academy. Many Fire Science Technology programs cover these topics, allowing students to take the tests to earn the EMT certificate and look for work as Firefighters.

Step 3: Earn an Emergency Medical Technician Certificate

Most Fire Inspectors have previous experience as Firefighters, which requires an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certificate. EMT training programs take about six months to complete and require students to take an exam before earning the certificate.

Step 4: Complete Firefighter Training Academy

After earning the EMT certificate, apply for a job as a Firefighter and complete the department’s training academy. The training often lasts several months and teaches students how to fight fires with various equipment, including axes, fire extinguishers, and chainsaws. Recruits also learn fire prevention techniques, which are useful for the Fire Inspector career.

Step 5: Become a Firefighter

Employers often want Fire Inspectors to have at least several years of experience as a Firefighter. Individuals who struggle to find employment at a fire department may try working as a Volunteer Firefighter to improve their resume.

Many rural and urban fire departments have hiring limits, which can make it difficult to find work as a Firefighter in certain regions. Individuals who cannot find work immediately should consider working as a Volunteer Firefighter until a job becomes available.

Step 6: Complete a Fire Inspector Training Program

Fire Inspectors may need to complete a training program that covers the basics of inspecting fires. This requirement is more common for those who plan on working for insurance companies. Fire Inspectors who work for fire departments often receive on-the-job training after getting hired. Completing a separate training program may not be necessary for those who have earned an Associate’s Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree in Fire Science.

Step 7: Meet State Requirements for Certification

Most states require Fire Inspectors to pass a national certification exam administered by the National Fire Protection Association. Additional training or certification may be required in some states.

Some employers may also require additional certifications before hiring a candidate. The National Fire Protection Association offers the Certified Fire Inspector and Certified Fire Protection Specialist certifications, which are the two most common certifications for this career.

The Certified Fire Inspector certification does not require any previous experience. Applicants simply need a high school diploma. Earning the certificate involves passing an exam with 100 multiple-choice questions.

The Certified Fire Protection Specialist certification requires varying levels of work experience based on the applicant’s formal education. Individuals with no college degree need at least six years of relevant work experience, such as working as a Firefighter. Applicants with an Associate’s Degree in Fire Science or an unrelated Bachelor’s Degree need four years of work experience. Applicants with a Bachelor’s Degree in Fire Science need at least two years of work experience.

Step 8: Look for Work as a Fire Inspector

Fire Inspectors typically work for fire departments and insurance companies. Many fire departments hire from within. For example, a Firefighter may gain the experience and training required to move up to a Fire Inspector position without switching employers.