SAVANNAH — Fire science students at Savannah Technical College may expand their first responder training with EMS certifications with a new firefighter/EMS diploma.

“The new firefighter/EMSP diploma program is an exciting opportunity for our students to obtain the education and training to earn the fundamental certifications necessary to function as a firefighter and emergency medical technician in today’s fire service,” said STC Fire Science Department head and lead instructor Anthony (Tony) Faust.

Upon completion of the firefighter/emergency medical services professional diploma, students may be eligible for certification and/or licensure in the following areas: firefighter I, EMT and AEMT.

“Because these are national certifications, our graduates can obtain gainful employment as a firefighter/EMT anywhere,” Faust said. “This is especially helpful for our military personnel and their spouses who are transitioning out of the service and wish to work in the emergency services field.”

The Firefighter I Technical Certificate of Credit program is conducted in cooperation with the Georgia Fire Academy and Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training to ensure graduates have the skills, knowledge and credentials to serve as firefighters in paid and volunteer fire departments. Graduates will be tested and certified at the National Professional Qualifications level.

EMS certification training is offered at progressive levels: EMT, AEMT and paramedic. At the AEMT level, training requirements vary by state. The nationally-defined levels typically require 30 to 350 hours of training based on scope of practice. Students learn advanced skills such the use of advanced airway devices, intravenous fluids and some medications.

STC will offer the FF/EMSP program in a cohort format starting in fall 2015. The 15-week firefighter certification program involves a combination of online and hands-on sessions at various fire departments.

Interested students should contact Faust at afaust@savannahtech.edu or (912) 443-3386.