Just like teachers, social workers, lawyers and other professionals in the helping services, Ohio firefighters are now required to renew their certification. The new rule was adopted in January 2008 and the deadline is coming up fast - Jan. 24, 2009.
“The Division of EMS (Emergency Medical Services) has worked hard to share information regarding the new fire law, training and education that became effective this year to ensure that every firefighter in the state has ample time to renew their licensures to continue to serve their communities,” says Richard Rucker, executive director of EMS.
One of several new rules that will “allow better training and tracking of certificate holders as well as enhance the skills of the firefighters that ultimately improve the level of care for Ohioans,” the renewal can be done online via www.ems.ohio.gov.
“The Ohio Fire Alliance spearheaded the legislation [Fire Bill 401] that now requires ongoing training and certification for firefighters,” says a statement from EMS. “Previously, firefighters were certified once upon initial approval of their application.
“The Ohio Department of Public Safety, through the Division of EMS, oversees the certification of emergency medical technicians and firefighters and ensures that the professionals in these lifesaving roles are properly trained, educated and prepared for emergency situations.”
