What do you think of when you hear the word "firefighter"? The movie called "The Towering Inferno?" Smokey the Bear's admonition that "Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires?" The hook and ladder truck that comes to the rescue of small children and cats stranded in trees?

Any or all of these images is accurate, because the work of a firefighter is some of the most dangerous and rewarding there is. Fire Departments across the nation estimate they will be replacing 50-55% of their current workforce in the next five years.

Red Rocks Fire Science Technology AAS Degree prepares you for entry into the Fire Service, promotion within the Fire Service or Advancement to a four-year college. At 71 credits, this program takes only about two years to complete. Areas of Emphasis include EMS / Paramedic, Wildland Firefighting, Hazardous Materials, Codes and Ordinances, Fire Investigations, and Fire Service Management. With courses covering all aspects of firefighting, 50 hours of Fire Academy and internships with local fire departments, graduates are ready to enter the world of firefighting.

What Firefighters Do
Although they are best known as those who extinguish fires, much of their work is in preventing it in the first place. Modern firefighters are experts in prevention and suppression, life safety, emergency medicine, protection of property and problems associated with hazardous materials and arson. They conduct public education programs, inspect buildings for fire hazards and fire law prevention violations, and give emergency first aid. They must be physically fit; able to deal with people in crisis; work in stressful, dangerous situations; critical thinkers and excellent communicators.

The Fire Science Technology Program at
Red Rocks Community College
To assist you with proper placement in the program, you must take an assessment test and consult with a Fire Science instructor/advisor prior to enrollment. The program includes opportunities for internships with local fire departments.

Job Prospects and Income
There will be lots of competition for the openings
that the Colorado Department of Labor projects over the next year.  About half of the state's 5,000 fire fighters work in the Denver Metro area, for salaries that begin at $16,000 and range up to $58,000, depending on experience and rank.

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