Firefighter standards and training

Firefighter training and competency standards are maintained and published by the Office of the Fire Commissioner as required by the Fire Services Act. Introductory training is available for Local Assistants to the Fire Commissioner and those interested in structure protection firefighting.

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Firefighter minimum training standards

The Structure Firefighters Minimum Training Standards sets minimum levels of training requirements for the provision of fire services in each community so that firefighters are effective and operating in a safe manner. 

Read more about training standards and request materials.

Local assistant to the fire commissioner training

This training is required for individuals who are currently or will soon be appointed as a Local Assistant to the Fire Commissioner (LAFC).

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Local Assistant to the fire commissioner training

Objectives

This training clarifies the duties you will perform as a LAFC, how the law protects you in your role, the authority the designation provides, and your obligations to the fire commissioner.

At the completion of this course, you will be able to describe:

  • The present structure of the British Columbia fire service
  • The scope and application of the Fire Services Act
  • The duties and responsibilities of LAFC
  • The powers and protection of LAFC

Additional resources:

Course length and delivery

This course may take up to 10 hours to complete. You must finish this course within one week of your course start date.

This introductory course is delivered online.

Cost and registration

Cost:

  • Free for individuals nominated to be an LAFC

Registration:

  • Email: OFC@gov.bc.ca
  • Include your preferred course date and a second choice as seats are limited

While the course is free, there is a cost and resource impact for our office, so it is important that you are committed to completing the course before you apply.

Training calendar

Date of Course

Registration Cut-off
May 1 to May 8, 2023 April 27
May 15 to May 22, 2023 May 11
June 5 to June 12, 2023 June 1
July 17 to July 24, 2023 July 13
August 14 to August 21, 2023 August 10

Course completion

A certificate of completion will be issued to the successful participants. The course includes a survey for each participant; we encourage your feedback so that we can maximize the benefit of this service.

You don't automatically become an LAFC after finishing this course. If you are interested in becoming one, please refer to Part I, Section 6 of the Fire Services Act, and speak to the fire service advisor in your area.

 

Structure protection program training and supplementary materials

The structure protection program training is provided by the BC Wildfire Service by assisting with training and deployment of local fire departments for additional personnel and resources to protect communities from wildfire.