AboutJohn Grussing Expertise I am able to answer questions related to fire service careers, fire suppression tactics, technical rescue procedures, emergency medical services, as well as fire department management and supervision questions.
Experience I am a 19 year veteran of the Normal, IL. fire department and currently hold the rank of Captain. I am also a past member of the MABAS Div. 41 Technical Rescue Team.
Organizations Golden Key Honor Society
International Association of Firefighters
McLean County EMS communications committee
Publications Fire Engineering Magazine (Roundtable Discussions)
Education/Credentials I hold an Associates degree in Fire Science from Illinois Central College as well as a bachelor of liberal arts degree from Western Illinois University. My emphasis of study was fire and disaster response planning. In addition, I hold numerous certifications in firefighting, Hazardous Materials, Technical Rescue, and Fire Department Administration from the Illinois Fire Service Institute.
Expert: John Grussing Date: 6/19/2008 Subject: I NEED SOME INFO....
Question I am 21 years old and am realizing that i would like to pursue a firefighting
career. I currently live in NY and I am wondering if there is any speciaized school
or academies i can attend to get the training I need. I know the military route is
optional but I was wondering if there is any alternate route. thank you soo much
Answer Gregory,
There is an alternative to military service. Be aware, however, that an honorable discharge from the military will award you extra points om the entrance exams. My advice to you would be to check at your local junior college for a paramedic certification program. Many departments will give you extra points for this certification and some departments require it. This is a two-year program that will require hundreds of hours of clinical time in the hospital and ride time on an ambulance.
If there is a volunteer department near you, I would recommend you joining so you can obtain firefighter certification which will also provide you with extra points. Keep yourself in top physical shape and maintain an impeccable background; even a DUI could disqualify you. Read all you can about the job and talk to your local firefighters; they will be able to tell you about the job and give you pointers on testing. Many departments, including the FDNY have formal programs to prepare you for testing so check into these as well. I hope this has helped....good luck!
