CATEC’s Fire Science program introduces students to the equipment and procedures necessary to fight live fires, operate in hazardous materials incidents, and conduct search-and-rescue operations. Students react to multi-faceted situations such as accidents, natural disasters, and simulated terrorism as part of an emergency response team. They become familiar with emerging technologies like communications dispatch, geographic information systems mapping, incident reporting, and simulation programs. They also study multimedia inputs, thermal imaging, cameras, and hazardous gas detectors.
Additionally, students gain valuable workplace skills necessary to become successful firefighters, including teamwork, critical thinking, public service, research, report writing, and incident management skills. This course challenges students academically, mentally, and physically.