Becoming a fire protection specialist requires a two-year degree in fire science and certification exams. Career options include working for law enforcement agencies, alarm and systems companies, fire departments, or fire systems suppliers. Certification is necessary for employment and can increase job prospects.
A fire protection specialist is responsible for installing, inspecting and repairing systems designed to prevent fires. You can become a fire protection specialist after earning a two-year degree in fire science, although your career as a fire protection specialist cannot begin without taking certification exams. One career option for a fire protection specialist is to ensure fire safety compliance on behalf of a law enforcement agency. You can also submit your credentials to alarm and systems companies to become an expert in fire protection.
You don’t have to attend a four-year university to become an expert in fire protection; a technical degree in fire science can take as little as two years to complete. Your fire science curriculum may include courses on protection and prevention systems. You can seek certification in a specific aspect of fire protection to increase your chances of finding employment. This certificate can provide skills in fire safety inspection, outdoor fire protection and fire investigation.
In most cases, your career as a fire protection specialist cannot take off without proper certification. Your local or regional government may require a fire protection specialist to be licensed prior to employment. This licensing requirement is met when you complete a required course and pass a certification exam. You should also look for certifications issued by fire safety and security organizations before applying for the job. These achievements will show your commitment to the latest fire protection methods to prospective employers.
You may be interested in becoming a fire protection specialist with your local fire department. Almost all fire departments employ at least one inspector who is dispatched to local buildings to ensure compliance with safety laws. You would spend your time inspecting fire alarms, smoke detectors and fire extinguishers from local businesses. This position may also require you to document deficiencies that could lead to significant fines. The health and safety department in your jurisdiction may also employ fire protection specialists to oversee adherence to new protection requirements.
Another career option when becoming a fire protection specialist is to work with a fire systems supplier. You should find at least one systems provider in your area that helps residential and commercial customers stay safe from fire. This career path allows you to install smoke alarms and fire extinguishing systems for clients in your community. You can also use your fire science background to educate clients about common causes of fires. A fire system supplier may send you out for system maintenance and repair prior to annual inspections.
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