Chance to prep for a sought-after career

Three City of Toronto divisions — Fire Services, Employment & Social Services, and Parks, Forestry & Recreation — have collaborated on a Firefighting Career Awareness Program to help low-income residents acquire the knowledge and skills needed to meet the minimum requirements of the Toronto Fire Service (TFS).

Although taking the course is no guarantee to finding a job with the fire department, division chief David Sheen notes that two former Toronto Employment & Social Services (TESS) clients were hired by TFS after completing an earlier career awareness program.

Consisting of a three-hour session once a week for 12 weeks, the course, which covers such topics as the Ontario Fire Code and written test and interview preparation, can help participants gain insight into the demands of a firefighting career. Although the program is mainly classroom-based, participants will get the chance to handle some of the firefighting equipment on a practical day held at a training centre.Any charges associated with preparing to meet the requirements, such as taking a first aid course, will be borne by TESS if participants meet financial eligibility requirements. As well, program participants will also be able to use City rec facilities to physically condition themselves for the rigorous work of firefighting.

This course starts up this January. Call TESS at 416-397-JOBS (5627) to attend a public information session between Nov. 26 and Dec. 6 if you would like more info about the program.

For more insight into the courageous world of firefighting read Trial by Fire, our interview with a firefighter.