Program Coordinator Edward Burnley
Every year fires take thousands of lives and destroy property worth billions of dollars. Firefighters help protect the public against this danger. They risk their lives to help insure the safety of individuals and property.
Lewis and Clark’s Fire Science program can help you develop the skills to save a person’s property or life. You’ll learn how to respond to different types of fires, what it takes to minimize property damage, and how to help someone who is a victim of a fire, accident or health problem.
Your training at Lewis and Clark also will include examining fire prevention techniques. You’ll study building inspection procedures and the role public education can play in helping prevent fires.
Program Learning Objectives
Instruction and practice with classroom and laboratory experiences in the technical aspects and the use of the firefighting equipment
Understand the laws and legal procedures relating to fire prevention, firefighting, and arson
Instruction and practice in inspection and other fire prevention activities
Insight concerning the role of a public servant
Nature of Work: Firefighters are called upon to handle all kinds of emergency situations. While fire suppression and prevention are still the primary functions of the fire service, firefighters are now called upon to handle incidents involving hazardous chemicals, transportation accidents, medical emergencies, cave-ins, building collapses, etc. At any emergency situation, firefighters perform specific and often complicated duties as part of a well-coordinated team. Duties range from connecting hose lines to very complex rescue or medical procedures. Other duties include building inspections, construction plan reviews, and public education programs. Firefighting is among the most hazardous of occupations.
Skills and Abilities: Firefighters must have excellent physical stamina, courage, mechanical aptitude and initiative. Firefighters must be able to work as a team and have the ability to make and implement quick decisions. Basic mathematical skills and knowledge of basic chemistry are required. A strong sense of public service is a must!
Important Notice: Students have 10 years to successfully complete all Fire Science courses leading to the completion of a degree or certificate. Students who can show proof of continuous membership in an established fire department for a minimum of five years shall have 15 years to successfully complete all Fire Science courses leading to the completion of a degree or certificate. Students who have taken Fire Science courses more than 10 years (15 years for fire department members) prior to the completion of the program may reestablish credit for those courses by: proficiency testing or repeating the course(s).