TRADES & INDUSTRIAL
Volunteer Firefighter
Level 1
NOC-3413
Program Description
The SIIT Volunteer Firefighter (VFF) program offers practical, hands-on training tailored to First Nations communities, providing participants with essential firefighting knowledge and skills necessary for real-world emergencies. This training is aligned with the International Fire Service Training Association (IFSTA) Essentials of Fire Fighting, 8th Edition, a standard in fire service education. The VFF Theory and Practical Level 1 program is 3 weeks and provides participants with a foundational understanding of fire science safety protocols, fire behavior, and the principles of effective firefighting. Additionally, trainees will have the opportunity to practice fire suppression, equipment handling, and safety protocols, preparing them to respond effectively to fire incidents. Emphasis is placed on both individual capabilities and team coordination, helping participants build confidence in their roles as responders within their communities. This program is delivered in-person within First Nations communities.
Admission Requirements
- Completion of Grade 8 at the minimum (Grade 10 recommended).
Non-Academic Requirements
- Students must be in good physical condition with good eyesight, hearing, manual dexterity, physical agility, eye-hand coordination, and no medical restrictions.
- Delivery of the practical portion can only take place on-reserve and where there is an active, responding fire hall and access to necessary firefighting equipment.
Acceptance Policy
SIIT provides preferential admission to applicants who are of First Nation’s ancestry; however, SIIT programs are open to everyone, and all application will be considered. SIIT relies on section 56 of The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code, 2018 to provide preference to applicants who are of First Nations’ ancestry.
Permanent Resident Applicant Information
SIIT is not currently legislated to accept International Students. You must be a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident to apply.
For Permanent Resident applications we will request the following documentation:
- Copy of Permanent Resident Card
- International Qualifications Assessment (IQAS) International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) | Alberta.ca Your high school/secondary education credentials must be assessed through this service.
- Canadian Language Benchmark – English Assessment of CLB 7. We will accept either International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - Academic or Canadian English Language Proficiency Program (CELPIP) – General.
Courses
| Code | Course Title | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| VFFT 001 | Volunteer Firefighter Theory Level 1 | 50 | Pass/Fail |
| VFFP 001 | Volunteer Firefighter Practical Level 1 | 45 | Pass/Fail |
| Total | 95 | Pass/Fail | |
Volunteer Firefighter
Level 1
Tuition and Fees
There is no tuition required to attend this program.
What to Expect
Length of Program
The length of the Volunteer Firefighter Theory and Practical Level 1 is 3 weeks full-time 15 days (95 hours).
Instruction
Instruction is offered in-person and in-community only.
Academic Policy
Students attending must adhere to SIIT Academic & Student policies which are available on the mySIIT dashboard on the SIIT website.
Attendance Policy
Students are required to attend instructor-led theory and practical sessions and must maintain a minimum of 90% attendance throughout the program.
Evaluation
This program will be evaluated in two ways. To evaluate the theoretical components, students will be marked on the 100% completion of all chapter tests. For evaluation of the practical components, instructors will use a variety of checklists and observations to evaluate the achievement level of specific, demonstrated skills.
Graduation Document
Successful students will receive two (2) Certificates of Achievement from SIIT. One will be for Volunteer Firefighter Theory Level 1, and the other will be for Volunteer Firefighter Practical Level 1.
Career Opportunities
Students may become members of their on-reserve Fire Department and contribute to community safety.
Further Education
Learners may connect with the SIIT Community Safety and Fire Protection Coordinator to discuss planning guidance or pathways into future training opportunities, including future deliveries for Volunteer Firefighter Level 2.
Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies
Head Office
Suite 100-103A Packham Avenue
Asimakaniseekan Askiy Reserve
Saskatoon, SK S7N 4K4
306-244-4444