Which education path is most efficient? (SoCal)

[Steezy_B]

Before I say anything else I just want to say I have used the search function, and I've read articles on other sites. I'm currently enrolled in a JC and taking general ed classes. I'm going to sign up for a summer ems class and get my EMT cert, and from there I'm torn. I've read that from here I should do academy/FF1 and I've also read that I should go straight to medic school after emt cert. And obviously I'll be applying religiously after I get my emt, either route I'll apply asap but I don't know if I should do academy/ff1 or medic, any thoughts?

P.S.
I'll be applying to LAFD and OCFA, and a couple other local departments
LA - only requires EMT
OCFA - trainees need emt only, firefighters need ff1 (this confused me, when a job opens idk if it will be for a trainee position or firefighter)
local dept.'s, ex. Huntington Beach - requires FF1 and EMT
-Thanks

[fire49]

If emt b is the minimum to apply get that

After that what I see on most calif posts is at least ff I, so get that

Do a search with "california" to see what threads pop up.

Plus look at other calif fd web sites to see what they require

[Steezy_B]

Ok thanks. Based off what youre saying I think this will be best route.
EMT-->FF1-->Medic-->Fire Science Degree (if I don't have a job by this point in time)
and working as a EMT while in FF1 and Medic school

[fire49]

make sure you check other depts in calif to see what the minimum is to apply!!!!!!!!!!


test anywhere now that you can apply at

also

also suggest check through this:::

http://www.eatstress.com/firezine_signup.htm

[paulLepore]

I too live in Southern California. You need to put yourself through a basic fire academy. The vast majority of departments require it. Many also require a medic license. Put yourself through an academy then get a job on an ambulance and become a good EMT. If you do not get hired, put yourself through paramedic school.

[Here and there]

I agree with Paul on this. Get the FF training out of the way, then later go medic. There are several good reasons for this, the time you are doing FF1 you will keep working on basic EMT skills and you may even be able to get practical work experience somewhere.

Once you do your paramedic training, you will want to try and get a paramedic job as soon as possible to keep your skills up. Trying to work an academy schedule around work is not going to help you get hired.

[C41]

I too live in Southern California. You need to put yourself through a basic fire academy. The vast majority of departments require it. Many also require a medic license. Put yourself through an academy then get a job on an ambulance and become a good EMT. If you do not get hired, put yourself through paramedic school.

I agree with Chief Lepore. Been testing for awhile now and I've found that the main result of getting my Fire Science Degree was that my resume moved higher up the stack, but it absolutely isn't a guarantee jobwise. I think it's wise to see if you enjoy EMS at the EMT-B level for a while before you go to med school.....it will pay out in the long run.