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Part 2: 11 critical steps in the path to becoming a firefighter

Plus learn tips for what chiefs are looking for in new recruits as well as the importance of public trust

Fire Chief Marc Bashoor outlines the 11 requirements to become a firefighter so you can begin your training, as well as the varied factors required by some fire departments, like driver’s license, background checks and physical exams. He also shares tips for what chiefs are looking for in new recruits and explains an important concept for anyone looking to work as a first responder: public trust.

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Read these books to accelerate your journey to becoming a volunteer or paid firefighter

Chief Marc S. Bashoor joined the Lexipol team in 2018, serving as the FireRescue1 and Fire Chief executive editor and a member of the Editorial Advisory Board. With 40 years in emergency services, Chief Bashoor previously served as public safety director in Highlands County, Florida; as chief of the Prince George’s County (Maryland) Fire/EMS Department; and as emergency manager in Mineral County, West Virginia. Chief Bashoor assisted the NFPA with fire service missions in Brazil and China, and has presented at many industry conferences and trade shows. He has contributed to several industry publications. He is a National Pro-board certified Fire Officer IV, Fire Instructor III and Fire Instructor. Connect with Chief Bashoor at on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn. Do you have a leadership tip or incident you’d like to discuss? Send the chief an email.