Fire & Environmental Emergency Response (FIRE)

The Fire and Environmental Emergency Response program at HCC prepares students for entry into employment in the Fire Service field as well as meeting the needs of the in-service professionals. Emphasis is placed on four basic areas of fire safety: Prevention and Inspection, Fire Control, Rescue and Emergency Medical, and Management and Administration. Students completing the program can earn certificate or achievement or an associate of applies science degree.

Fire fighters protect communities and forests against loss of life, injury and destruction of property by fire. Fire fighters work as a team with each person assigned to a special job, providing emergency assistance in a variety of situations. Duties include operating and maintaining fire equipment and trucks, inspecting building for fire safety, promoting fire prevention, and investigating the causes of fires. Fire fighters also respond to other emergencies such as floods, swimming and boating mishaps, automobile accidents, air crash emergencies, and lost or injured hikers.

Excellent health, physical stamina, good use of hands, agility, and good eye-hand-foot coordination are all skill that are needed for this field. The work setting is indoors and outdoors. A fire fighter must be able to carry 50-pound hose bundles up ladders or stairs, raise 40-pound ladders and perform a variety of duties. Fire fighters are usually on duty for three 24-hour shifts (every other day), followed by four days off, resulting in a 56-hour work week. While on duty, they spend time in fire houses around the clock, eating and sleeping and working closely with others. Nationally and in Hawai'i, average employment growth is expected for the next few years.

Program Courses

Frequently Ask Questions

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FIRE Contacts