Columbus Fire & EMS

Fire & EMS Career Prep Academy

What is the Fire & EMS Career Prep Academy?
The Fire & EMS Prep Academy is a dynamic 5-week volunteer program designed to provide participants who want to pursue a career in fire and EMS with an inside view of the organization and operations of the Columbus Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department. 

The program includes live demonstrations, classroom learning and hands-on experiences – all of which are intended to give the participant a true feel for the CFEMS. 

Who can participate?
The Fire & EMS Prep Academy is open to anyone 18-years-of-age or older who either lives or works in Muscogee County or surrounding counties and has no felony convictions. Participants must meet the minimum hiring standards of Columbus Fire and EMS as well as the recommendations set by the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA).

When:
Each academy lasts 5 weeks. Classes meet on class days in the evenings from 6-8PM. 

Where:
Classes are held at the Fire Training Academy, 4191 Macon Road and/or the Fire and EMS Headquarters Building, 1100 Veterans Pkwy. 

What will participants learn?

  • History/Organization of CFEMS
  • CPR
  • Fire Behavior
  • Personal Protective Equipment
  • Portable Fire Extinguisher Training
  • Firefighter Health and Safety
  • Hazardous Materials
  • Technical Rescue
  • Water Rescue
  • Fire Ground Operations
  • Fire Station Tour
  • Vehicle Extrication
  • Forcible Entry
  • Interview Preparation 

Questions & How to Apply
To apply, fill out the on-line application. For questions, contact CFEMS Resource Management at (706) 225-3500 

Minimum Requirements

  • At least 18 years of age by start of the Fire & EMS Prep Academy
  • A United States Citizen
  • Not having been convicted of a misdemeanor within three (3) years
  • Successfully pass both the background check and physical examination
  • Applicants must have visual acuity
  • Must be of sound physical and mental health
  • Successfully complete the Candidate Physical Abilities Test (CPAT)
  • Not have been convicted of a felony
  • Pass Compass Test
  • Must meet NFPA 1580’s vision, hearing, and aerobic capacity