Fire science and firefighting programs prepare people to fight fires. Students learn how to control different types of fires and perform rescue procedures. They also learn how to operate and maintain tools and equipment.

On the popular show "Survivor," one of the first challenges given to participants is to make a fire from scratch. No lighters, matches, lighter fluid - nothing. The participants in each tribe often struggle just to generate a little smoke! Without a good fire, though, there isn't a way to boil water, cook food, or keep warm. Yet, as important as fire is to keep life going, fire can also be destructive. If it isn't properly contained, it can destroy forests, homes, and hurt or even kill people and animals. Firefighters dedicate their careers to fighting fires that have gotten out of control.

In fire science and firefighting programs, you study how fires begin and spread. You learn different techniques for containing fires and how to use water, hoses, and extinguishers. In addition, you learn how to handle emergency situations and to rescue people and animals. You also learn how to handle and remove hazardous materials.

The most common way to become a firefighter is to get an associate degree from a community college. These programs usually take two to three years to complete. Additional training is usually required through your municipal fire department. Requirements vary, depending on if you become a professional firefighter or work on a volunteer basis.