Here’s your chance to become a firefighter in Oakville, Burlington, Milton, Halton Hills

If a career in firefighting has always been in your sights, here’s an opportunity join the fire service.

Blaze Fire Academy, a joint initiative of the fire departments in Oakville, Burlington, Milton, and Halton Hills, is offering career sessions to encourage adults and youth to join the fire service.

These immersive sessions provide a comprehensive understanding of firefighting, fire prevention, public education, training, dispatch communications, and administration.

“We are immensely proud of the dedicated and skilled members of Halton’s Fire and Emergency Services teams who work tirelessly to keep our community safe around the clock,” said Oakville Mayor Rob Burton.

“This year, the expanded range of training programs encourages people of all ages, genders and backgrounds to experience this important career firsthand in an immersive training format.”
Individuals 21 older with a non-fire service background and are looking to switch careers can take part in the first session which is specifically aimed at them.

A diversity in skill sets is welcomed as the fire services offers a variety or roles beside firefighting.

Virtual training sessions will be held on June 6 and 13, followed by  in-person training on June 17.

The online application is open now for 24 spots and will be accepted until May 21.

This will be followed up by training sessions for young women aged 15 to 18. Those will be held on Aug. 9 and 10, offering 24 spots for immersive activities and an information session with post-secondary educational organizations that offer courses in fire services.

The final session will be open to ages 15 or older of all genders with up to 24 spots available. The applications, for those with or without prior experience in the fire services, will open in October for the November session.

All in-person training is conducted at the Oakville Training Campus for Emergency Excellence at 1144 South Service Road West, Oakville.

Training includes discussed include hazardous material response, search and rescue operations, auto extrication rescues, rope rescue, forcible entry procedures, water rescue and more.

Strategic and tactical aspects of fire response support such as fire investigation, communications, public education, fire prevention are also included.

“We believe in building inclusive and diverse teams that reflect our growing communities,” said Oakville Fire Chief Paul Boissonneault. “Together with our partners in Halton Region’s fire departments, we welcome individuals from all walks of life to explore a meaningful and impactful career through Blaze Fire Academy.

“Whether you’re looking to kickstart a new career or seeking a fulfilling profession, Blaze Fire Academy offers opportunities that exemplify a vision of fire services for all.”