Hawaii is a beautiful state, a true paradise in the eyes of locals and visitors alike. However, fire will still rear its ugly head from time to time. One of the unique things about fighting fires in Hawaii is that sometimes you have to deal with lava flows and fires started by lava. This is going to require special training that firefighters on the mainland probably aren’t going to need! Something that you may want to do is find schools that can offer fire science degrees. Getting a degree in the field can be quite beneficial even before you start training.
How to Become a Firefighter in Hawaii
Depending on the area in which you live in Hawaii, you will find that there may be some different requirements for becoming a firefighter. In most cases, you will first have to pass a written test to be eligible to advance through the selection process. Start by applying for the test and getting a testing date. The test includes reading comprehension, math, memory, and spatial reasoning. You don’t have to have any knowledge of fighting fires to take and pass the test. Once you pass the test, you are going to have to pass a physical test at a later date.
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After passing the physical fitness portion of the application process and advancing, you will then have to have an interview with the fire department. If they approve you, you will then attend recruit training, which takes 18 weeks, and be able to join the fire department. Keep in mind that there may be slightly different requirements in different areas of Hawaii.
Employment Trends for Firefighters
The growth rate for the job of firefighter is around 9%, which is below the average when compared to other types of jobs around the country. They are growing at a rate of 14%. This means that the competition for jobs as a firefighter in Hawaii and elsewhere is going to be rough. Going to schools that offer fire science programs can help to put you above others in the eyes of those who are doing the hiring, so you will want to keep that in mind.
Salary and Employment Facts
The average salary for a firefighter working in Hawaii is $43,000 per year. Depending on time in the department, rank, and other factors, the number can be higher or lower.
Firefighter Activity in the News
The job of a firefighter can involve rescue from the water just as easily as it might involve putting out a fire. Recently in Maui, firefighters had to use a helicopter to rescue a woman from a dangerous area of sea and rocks.