Online Courses and Classes in Fire Protection

Colleges, universities and fire academies offer online fire protection courses for prospective fire service personnel and interested students. Read on to learn about courses that present information on the multiple aspects of fire safety science.

Overview of Online Fire Protection Courses

Online fire protection courses are usually offered as part of degree and certificate programs designed to train students in elemental fire safety science. These programs prepare students for state certification as fire fighters, fire officers, fire inspectors or fire investigators. Degree programs commonly require 15 months to four years of study.
Fire fighters often work at local fire stations as first responders for fires, medical emergencies and traffic accidents. Fire service personnel may also work as safety officers in chemical plants, airports or other industrial sites. Most programs feature open enrollment for students who want to take a single course.

Online Requirements

Students will need access to a computer and the Internet. Courses may require students to have access to word processing and presentation software like Power Point. An active e-mail account is necessary to communicate with teachers and fellow students.
Exams may be taken online or at approved sites, depending on the program. Degree and certificate programs in fire protection are available entirely online or through a hybrid on-site and online format. Courses with on-site modules may require students to purchase firefighting equipment, such as helmets, bunker coats and gloves.

List of Online Fire Protection Courses

Basic Firefighting Course

This course prepares students for certification as basic fire fighters and are taught in consecutive 2-6 month sessions. The course focuses on fire fighter safety, fire science, personal protective equipment and fire fighting equipment, such as service hoses, ladders and emergency service communication systems. Students also examine correct procedure for forcible entry, ventilation, salvage, overhaul, and hazardous material management at the fire site.

Fire Safety Systems Course

Courses on fire safety systems cover the operations and applications of heat and smoke control systems, automatic sprinkler systems, portable fire extinguishers, fire detection alarm systems and water supply. Students also review fire protection systems installation and current approval standards.

Fire Inspection Course

Classes in fire inspection vary by state, but usually include studies of potential fire hazards, the types of fire protection systems, and inspection practices. Students also study different types of construction and occupancy classifications, building service equipment and local fire safety standards.

Fire Service Water Systems Course

In this class, students examine the use of water in fire protection and study the mechanics of water flow through hydrants, sprinklers, water mains, fire hoses and standpipes. Course content includes studies of hydraulic principles, components of a water distribution system, the use of fire pumps, and the applications of nozzles and pumps.