Before applying for a position as a fire dispatcher, candidates should review the job responsibilities. Meeting common candidate requirements includes obtaining the necessary level of education to become a fire dispatcher. Other requirements for those wishing to work as a fire dispatcher include having specific personality traits and completing on-the-job training.
Candidates who complete training to become a fire dispatcher will have the education and experience needed to perform the job duties. Firefighters answer calls from citizens who are experiencing emergencies such as fires, explosions, and other potentially dangerous situations. They use computers to enter vital information for reporting and dispatch fire, police, and paramedic crews to the scene.
A high school diploma or its equivalent has traditionally been required for becoming a fire dispatcher. In some job positions, additional education beyond high school is preferred, and it can help a candidate stand out from the crowd in a competitive job market. Communications and computer systems coursework can be beneficial. When looking for a job as a fire dispatcher, basic life-saving skills such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and basic first aid can be beneficial.
Possessing the necessary personality traits to perform the duties of the position is perhaps the most important qualification for candidates interested in becoming a fire dispatcher. Because you will be assisting citizens in dealing with emergencies and stressful situations, you must be able to remain calm under pressure. A friendly demeanor and a calm tone of voice when speaking on the phone are also required personality traits for a fire dispatcher.
To work as a fire dispatcher, you must complete any required on-the-job training. This training will include specific computer software comprehension training. During on-the-job training, additional skills will be taught, such as how to handle emergency calls and how to use radio and intercom units to communicate with appropriate emergency personnel.
A person must be able to meet the job’s other requirements in addition to the traditional qualifications for a fire dispatcher. Dispatchers are required to sit for long periods of time and be available for incoming calls at all times. It’s also necessary to be able to multitask. Fire dispatchers must be able to hold a conversation with a caller and extract all necessary information, such as the caller’s address and the nature of the emergency, while also entering the information into a computer and dispatching the appropriate emergency personnel.