• Plays a crucial role in keeping the community safe and responding to emergencies. These professionals are trained to handle a wide range of emergencies, including fires, medical emergencies, hazardous materials incidents, and more.
• Responsible for responding to emergency calls and providing critical medical care to patients in need. This can include performing CPR, administering medications, and stabilizing patients before transporting them to a hospital. In addition to medical emergencies, you will also be trained to respond to fires, conduct search and rescue operations, and assist with disaster response efforts.
• Have advanced medical training that allows you to provide more complex medical care. You will be able to administer advanced medications, perform more complex medical procedures, and interpret diagnostic tests. This level of training allows you to provide a higher level of care to patients in need.
• Both roles require individuals who are physically fit, mentally tough, and the ability to work well under pressure. They also require strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to think quickly and make sound decisions in high-pressure situations.

If you are interested in starting a career as a Firefighter/EMT or Firefighter/Paramedic with the West Columbia Fire Department, you will need to complete rigorous training and education programs. But the rewards are many, including the satisfaction of helping others, the opportunity to work as part of a close-knit team, and the chance to make a real difference in your community.

To become a West Columbia Firefighter/EMT, follow these steps:

1. Meet the Basic Requirements: To become a West Columbia firefighter/EMT, you must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or GED. You must also possess a valid driver’s license and have a clean driving record.
2. Complete the Application Process: Submit your application and all required documentation, including a resume and any certifications, to the West Columbia Fire Department. The department will review your application and contact you if you meet the initial qualifications.
3. Take the Written Exam: If your application is accepted, you will be scheduled to take a written exam. This test measures your general knowledge of firefighting and EMT procedures, as well as your ability to think critically and problem-solve in emergencies.
4. Pass the Physical Agility Test: If you pass the written exam, you will be invited to take a physical agility test. This test measures your strength, endurance, and ability to perform the physical tasks required of a firefighter/EMT.
5. Pass a Background Check and Drug Test: After successfully completing the written and physical tests, you will need to pass a background check and drug test. This is done to ensure that you have a clean record and do not have any drug-related issues that could compromise your ability to perform your duties.
6. Attend Fire Academy: Once you pass all of the initial testing and background checks, you will need to attend a fire academy. This is a rigorous training program that prepares you for the challenges of being a firefighter/EMT.
7. Obtain EMT Certification: During your training, you will need to obtain your EMT certification. This certification is required to provide medical care and assistance to patients.
8. Begin Working as a West Columbia Firefighter/EMT: Once you have completed all of the necessary training and obtained your EMT certification, you will begin working as a West Columbia firefighter/EMT. You will be responsible for responding to emergency calls, providing medical care, and fighting fires to protect the community.

• Salary: Firefighters/EMTs or Firefighters/Paramedics are typically paid a salary that varies based on the location and department. The salary may be based on a pay scale that increases with experience and level of education.
• Health insurance: Many departments offer health insurance to firefighters/EMTs or firefighters/paramedics and their families. The health insurance may include medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement plans: Firefighters/EMTs or firefighters/paramedics may be eligible for a retirement plan, such as a defined benefit plan or a 401(k) plan, which can provide them with financial security in their retirement years.
• Paid time off: Firefighters/EMTs or firefighters/paramedics may receive paid time off, such as vacation time, sick leave, and personal days.
• Training and education: Departments may offer ongoing training and education opportunities to help firefighters/EMTs or firefighters/paramedics stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and procedures in their field.
• Uniforms and equipment: Firefighters/EMTs or firefighters/paramedics may receive uniforms and equipment necessary to perform their job duties.