FSC 101: Fire Department Operations I

Credits 6.0 Lecture Hours 5 Lab Hours 2
Sun Number
N/A
General Education Category
Pending Evaluation
Activity Course
No

This course is intended for new fire department recruits and individuals pursuing certification as structural firefighters. This entry-level certification program delivers the foundational knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to operate safely and effectively within a firefighting team.


Applicants must be at least 18 years of age on or before the date of the certification test administered through the Arizona Center for Fire Service Excellence (AzCFSE). Concurrent enrollment in, or prior completion of, FSC106, CPR certification (AHA/BLS Provider), and all required training hours and live burn exercises, as specified by AzCFSE, is recommended.


Completion of FSC101 with a minimum score of 70% is required to proceed to AzCFSE testing. Candidates must also pass the AzCFSE written examination, a 150-question cognitive assessment with a minimum passing score of 70%. Successful candidates will receive Fire Fighter I certification, recognized by IFSAC and issued by the Arizona Center for Fire Service Excellence, which qualifies them for entry-level employment in Arizona fire departments and other jurisdictions.

Prerequisites

None.

Student Learning Outcomes

1.    Describe the structure, mission, and roles within a fire department.
2.    Explain the function of the Incident command System (ICS) and its application during emergency operations.
3.    Identify and use personal protective equipment (PPE), including Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA).
4.    Execute emergency procedures including mayday calls, rapid intervention, and self-rescue techniques.
5.    Explain the chemistry of fire, stages of fire development, and methods of heat transfer.
6.    Analyze fire behavior in various structural environments to inform tactical decisions.
7.    Demonstrate proficiency in hose handling, nozzle operation, ladder deployment, and ventilation tools.
8.    Perform routine maintenance and safety checks on firefighting apparatus and equipment.
9.    Conduct search and rescue operations in simulated fire environments.
10.    Apply fire suppression tactics for Class A fires, vehicle fires, and ground cover fires.
11.    Perform salvage and overhaul procedures to preserve property and ensure fire extinguishment.
12.    Adhere to fire department policies, codes of ethics, and professional standards.
13.    Demonstrate teamwork, accountability, and leadership in both training and operational settings.
14.    Provide basic Patient care and triage in coordination with EMS personnel.
15.    Understand the role of firefighters in medical response scenarios.
16.    Identify hazardous materials and apply awareness-level response protocols.
17.    Establish safety zones and initiate decontamination procedures as required.
18.    Fulfill all co-requisites including Hazmat Awareness & Operations, CPR certification, and live burn exercisers as required by AzCFSE.