Fire Safety Systems FSS

Holland Code: R (Realistic)

What academic skills do I need to be successful in the program?

This list does not replace the admission requirements you must have for admission to the program. Please see website for details.

Arts & Literacy: Communicate effectively in English (written reports).   High school courses in Business and Technical Communication or Communications Technology would be beneficial preparation for this program.

Math and Science: Basic math skills are needed. It is recommended that applicants have taken Grade 12 Mathematics for College Technology (C) OR Grade 12 Foundations for College Mathematics (C).

Technology: Basic computer skills required; use of student portal system, students need to check email and posts every day.  High school courses in Trades and Technology would be beneficial preparation for this program.

What personal qualities should someone interested in this career have?

• Self-motivated and ability to work independently
• Ability to work as a member of a team
• Customer service skills
• Creative
• Enjoy figuring out problems; able to suggest solutions
• Enjoy working with tools, equipment, instruments and machinery at tasks
• Mechanical, mathematical, and analytical ability
• Able to take direction and follow instructions
• Enjoy figuring out problems; able to suggest solutions
• Reliable, dependable,  respectful
• Good oral and written communication skills
• Healthy work ethic
• Willingness to continuously update one’s education
• Attendance in class is a must

Useful background experience for this program would be:

• Technically inclined
• Enjoy working with your hands, tinkering
   

What kind of work could I do when I graduate?

Graduates of this program may go on to become:

• Fire Alarm Technician

            Inspect, monitor, service and maintain fire alarm systems as required by law.

• Fire Alarm Sales Consultant

            Lead fire alarm sales and customer service support throughout an assigned geographic region.

• Fire Sprinkler Designer

           Design, install, inspect, service and maintain fire sprinkler equipment in commercial and community facilities.

Places you may find yourself employed include:

Fire Alarm Service companies, Fire Safety System Manufacturers, In-house fire alarm technician for commercial/manufacturing/industrial companies.

Typical working conditions for this kind of work:

• Working conditions vary considerably in this occupation
• May work indoors or outdoors, and often travel to several work sites in a day
• Generally work a standard 35 to 40 hour week but may have to work some overtime, particularly when fires, weather or other events disrupt fire alarm systems; shift work may be required
• Work may involve working from heights
• Will need to distinguish different colours of wires and cables
• Must observe safety precautions to reduce the risk of injury from electrical shocks, falls or hazards associated with cable splicing
• Work in both office settings and construction sites

Tasks a graduate may do in the workplace:

• Assess the functionality of fire alarm systems
• Assess and maintain life safety electronics
• Describe the fundamental operations of basic electrical systems
• Write technical reports to industry standards
• Assess a structure to determine if all relevant fire codes, legislation, and standards are met
• Describe basic fire extinguishing methods
• Describe the basic components of sprinkler systems
• Install, verify and test a variety of fire alarm systems
• Troubleshoot issues in a variety of fire alarm and sprinkler systems

Helpful links for further research into this Fanshawe College program and career opportunity:

• Canadian Fire Alarm Association  - provides requirements and certification of fire alarm technicians for majority of Canada
• Fanshawe’s library has prepared a subject guide for current students in this program. You may find the links and information provided very useful in learning more about this career.

Last Modified: April 3, 2024