Firefighter Pre-Service – NFPA 1001/1072

Firefighter Training in Ontario – Southwest Fire Academy

Southwest Fire Academy (SFA) offers the most immersive and realistic Firefighter Pre-Service Training in Ontario. Our 20-day firefighter bootcamp provides hands-on, firehouse-style training, allowing students to live and train on campus in a true firefighting environment. This intensive firefighter training program prepares students for real-world firefighting by focusing on teamwork, discipline, and practical skill development.

Why Choose Southwest Fire Academy?

• Led by Experienced Ontario Firefighters – SFA is owned and operated by active professional firefighters.
• Firehouse Experience – Train in a fully immersive, paramilitary firehouse setting.
• High Training Standards – We go beyond checklists to ensure students develop the skills needed for success in firefighting careers.
• Approved Firefighter Training Program – SFA’s Firefighter Pre-Service Course is an approved vocational program as per Ontario Career Colleges Act.
• IFSAC Certification Preparation – Program includes testing for:
  • NFPA 1001 Firefighter Level I & II
  • NFPA 1072 Hazardous Materials Awareness & Operations

2025 Bootcamp Course Dates

Upon Registration you will select your Bootcamp based on the “Program Start Date” listed in the chart below. This date signifies when the Self-Directed Learning must be started by. You can of course start that sooner.

Firefighter Training Program Prerequisites

• Minimum Age: 18+
• Education Requirement: Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent.
• First Aid & CPR: Standard First Aid and CPR/AED Level C (required before bootcamp starts).
• Physical Readiness: Complete the PAR-Q fitness assessment (included in the application process).
• International Credentials: Must pass an equivalency test if education was completed outside Canada.

Comprehensive Firefighter Training Program Structure

1. Self-Directed Online Learning

• Duration: Approximately 3-4 months (flexible schedule).
• Course Material: IFSTA Essentials of Firefighting (7th Edition) textbook and online course.
• Requirement: Must complete before bootcamp start date.

2. On-Campus Pre-Bootcamp Training

• Duration: 4 days.
• Includes: Equipment orientation, firefighter skills training, practice exams.
• Hands-on Access: Study areas, training props, and live instructors.

3. Intensive Firefighter Bootcamp (16 Days)

• Full immersion in firehouse living and firefighting techniques.
• Train with top-tier firefighting equipment and PPE.
• Schedule:
  • 0530 – 0630 – Physical Training (Yoga, Warm-Up, Stretching)
  • 0630 – 0745 – Showers, Breakfast, Dorm Inspections
  • 0800 – 0900 – Daily Exam / Safety Briefing
  • 0900 – 1200 – Classroom & Practical Training
  • 1200 – 1300 – Lunch
  • 1300 – 1700 – Classroom & Practical Training
  • 1700 – 1800 – Station Duties & Supper
  • 1800 – 2200 – Study, Group Work, Optional Training
  • 2200 – 0530 – Lights Out / Emergency Response Simulation

What’s Included in Tuition?

• Accommodations & Facilities: Dorm rooms, communal kitchen, laundry, parking.
• Meals & Snacks: All meals during bootcamp. (Not included during Pre-Bootcamp session)
• Firefighter Equipment & Gear: PPE, SCBA rental, training props.
• Course Materials: Textbooks, computer access.
• OFMEM Testing Fees: Exam fees covered.
• Bonus Items: Two SFA-branded t-shirts.

🔥 Train with the Best – Become a Firefighter in Ontario! 🔥

Secure your spot today for the best firefighter training program in Ontario. Limited seats available – Register now!