What Disqualifies You from Being a Firefighter?

Daniel Ahasic is an experienced firefighter who holds a BS in aviation from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Illinois. Daniel Ahasic currently serves as a paramedic and firefighter at the Aurora Fire Department in Aurora, Illinois.

To work as a fireman, some of the basic requirements are being physically fit and at least 18 years old, and possessing a valid driver’s license and a high school diploma. Even if you fulfill these minimum requirements, you may not be permitted to become a firefighter for a variety of reasons. For example, if a background check finds that you have posted hateful or insulting content on your social media pages, the fire department you hope to join could bar you from becoming a firefighter.

A negative driving record for driving while intoxicated, fleeing the scene of a car accident, driving without car insurance, and reckless driving could also disqualify you from joining your local fire department until you show improved behavior for a period that exceeds 5 years. Poor credit, tattoos or piercings visible while in your firefighter uniform, substance abuse, court martial from the military, nonpayment of child support, and previous behavior at work that made it impossible for you to keep a job are some of the other factors that can deny you an opportunity to serve a firefighter.