Fire & Emergency Technology Courses Offered

The fire and emergency technology program prepares students for entry-level employment and job upgrades in fire services and emergency medical fields. By completing the degree or certificate requirements, students will gain the ability to apply the principles of fire combat, fire protection organization, fire prevention, fire behavior, and building construction. Students will also gain proficiency in emergency medical assistance and in the handling of hazardous materials and emergency vehicles and apparatus. Competencies will be assessed regularly in compliance with the California State Firefighter I Standards and with the Los Angeles County certification process for emergency medical technicians and paramedics.

Note: Since employment as a fire fighter requires passing stringent physical and agility exams, persons considering such a career should ascertain that they meet those requirements.

Fire and Emergency Technology 1 Fire Protection Organization 3 units; 3 hours lecture Recommended Preparation: eligibility for English 1A Credit, degree applicable Transfer CSU	Fire and Emergency Technology 2 Fire Prevention Technology 3 units; 3 hours lecture Recommended Preparation: Fire and Emergency Technology 1 and English A Credit, degree applicable Transfer CSU
This course provides an introduction to fire protection. Emphasis is placed on career opportunities in fire protection and related fields and the philosophy and history of fire protection. Additional topics include fire loss analysis; organization and function of public and private fire protection services; fire departments as part of local government; laws and regulations affecting the fire service; fire service; specific fire protection functions; basic fire chemistry and physics; introduction to fire protection systems; and introduction to fire strategy and tactics.	This course provides fundamental information regarding the history and philosophy of fire prevention; organization and operation of a fire prevention bureau; use of fire codes; identification and correction of fire hazards; and the relationship of fire prevention with fire safety education and detection and suppression systems.
Fire and Emergency Technology 3 Fundamentals of Personal Fire Safety and Survival 3 units; 3 hours lecture Recommended Preparation: Fire and Emergency Technology 1 and English A Credit, degree applicable Transfer CSU	Fire and Emergency Technology 4 Fire Company Organization and Management 3 units; 3 hours lecture Recommended Preparation: Fire and Emergency Technology 1 and eligibility for English 1A Credit, degree applicable Transfer CSU
This course introduces the basic principles and history related to the national firefighter life safety initiatives. Emphasis will be placed on the need for cultural and behavior change throughout emergency services. Focus is placed on assessing fire dangers and handling common fire situations.	This course is designed to review fire department organization and offer instruction in the organization, management and supervision of fire companies. Areas of discussion include the relationship of the company officer to the organizational structure as well as responsibilities related to personnel supervision, evaluation, discipline and training, communication, fire apparatus and equipment, maintenance, fire prevention, incident response and command, strategy and tactics, and records and reports.
Fire and Emergency Technology 5 Fire Behavior and Combustion 3 units; 3 hours lecture Recommended Preparation: Fire and Emergency Technology 1 and eligibility for English 1A Credit, degree applicable Transfer CSU	Fire and Emergency Technology 6 Building Construction for Fire Protection 3 units; 3 hours lecture Recommended Preparation: Fire and Emergency Technology 1 and eligibility for English 1A Credit, degree applicable Transfer CSU
This course examines the theory and fundamentals of how and why fires start, spread, and are controlled, as well as an in-depth study of fire chemistry and physics, fire characteristics of materials, extinguishing agents and fire control techniques.	This course is the study of the components of building construction that relate to fire safety. The elements of construction and design of structures are shown to be key factors when inspecting buildings, pre-planning fire operations, and operating at fires. The development and evolution of building and fire codes will be studied in relationship to past fires in residential, commercial, and industrial occupancies.
Fire and Emergency Technology 9 Fire Apparatus and Equipment 3 units; 3 hours lecture Recommended Preparation: Fire and Emergency Technology 1 and English A Credit, degree applicable Transfer CSU	Fire and Emergency Technology 10 Hazardous Materials 3 units; 3 hours lecture Recommended Preparation: Fire and Emergency Technology 1 or 15 and English 1A Credit, degree applicable Transfer CSU
This course is a study of fire apparatus design and use, including mobile and fixed apparatus. It includes a review of construction specifications and performance capabilities as well as effective deployment, utilization, and performance of equipment under emergency conditions.	This course is a study of firefighting practices related to hazardous chemicals and their physical properties, uses in industry, and characteristics when involved in spills, fires, and accidents. It includes basic information regarding health effects and treatment as well as fire department protocols and responsibilities.
Fire and Emergency Technology 11 Arson Detection and Control 3 units; 3 hours lecture Recommended Preparation: Fire and Emergency Technology 1 and English A Credit, degree applicable Transfer CSU	Fire and Emergency Technology 15 Fire Academy 15 units; 9 hours lecture, 18.5 hours lab Prerequisite: 1. Fire and Emergency Technology 1 with a minimum grade of C or equivalent 2. Fire and Emergency Technology 6 with a minimum grade of C or equivalent 3. Possession of a National Registry Card or possession of a valid Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) license as required by the California State Fire Marshal's Office 4. Pass a Fire Fighter Physical Agility Test (FPAT) or Candidate Physical Agility Test (CPAT) within the last 6 months as required by the California State Fire Marshal's Office 5. Pass a physical examination according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standard #1582 6. Pass the El Camino College Fire Physical Qualification Test 7. Possess a valid California driver’s license Credit, degree applicable
This course is a study of prevention, detection, and control of arson fires. It includes arson motives, fire investigation, and lawful search, identification, collection, seizure, and preservation of evidence.	This course is designed for students who wish to prepare for entry-level positions as a firefighter and work toward becoming certified as a Fire Fighter 1, as specified by the California State Fire Marshal’s Office. Students participate in a 495-hour course of instruction emphasizing basic firefighting skills such as methods of extinguishing fires, principles of ventilation, techniques of physical rescue, building construction, fire apparatus, fire equipment maintenance, and the knowledge of fire behavior. Note: Students must apply through the Industry and Technology Division Office.
Fire and Emergency Technology 19 Fire Service Entrance Preparation 3 units; 3 hours lecture Recommended Preparation: Fire and Emergency Technology 1 and English A Credit, degree applicable	Fire and Emergency Technology 20 Fire Protection Equipment and Systems 3 units; 3 hours lecture Recommended Preparation: eligibility for English 1A Credit, degree applicable Transfer CSU
This course will explore all aspects of commonly used hiring procedures in the field of fire service. Fire service diagnostic tests will be used to identify any weakness in fire service entry-level skills. Students will research hiring practices, take practice written examinations, participate in mock oral board examinations, and receive instruction which will enhance their fire technology career opportunities.	This course addresses the features of design and operation of fire detection and alarm systems, heat and smoke control systems, special protection and sprinkler systems, water supply for fire protection and portable fire extinguishers.
Fire and Emergency Technology 40A Command 1A 2 units; 2 hours lecture Recommended Preparation: Fire and Emergency Technology 1 or current employment in the field Credit, degree applicable Transfer CSU	Fire and Emergency Technology 40B Command 1B 2 units; 2 hours lecture Recommended Preparation: Fire and Emergency Technology 1 or current employment in the field Credit, degree applicable Transfer CSU
This course parallels the Command Principles for Company Officers course offered by the California Fire Service Training and Education Systems (CFSTES). The topics include the role of fire officers, fire behavior, fireground resources, operations, and management procedures. The course applies to Fire Officer certification requirements established by the California State Board of Fire Services.	This course parallels the Hazardous Materials Command Principles for Company Officers course offered by the California Fire Service Training and Education System (CFSTES). The topics include the Incident Command System (ICS), multi-casualty incidents, hazardous materials incidents, wildland fire incidents, environmental concerns and legal issues. The course applies to Fire Officer certification requirements established by the California State Board of Fire Services.
Fire and Emergency Technology 80A Training Instructor 1A 2 units; 2 hours lecture Recommended Preparation: Fire and Emergency Technology 1 Credit, degree applicable Transfer CSU	Fire and Emergency Technology 80B Training Instructor 1B 2 units; 2 hours lecture Recommended Preparation: Fire and Emergency Technology 80A Credit, degree applicable Transfer CSU
This course parallels Instructional Techniques Part 1 offered by the California Fire Service Training and Education System (CFSTES). It is designed to provide instruction in fire service training methods with emphasis on using occupational analysis, identifying training needs, and training others to perform manipulative skills. The course applies to Fire Officer, Fire Instructor I and Public Education Officer II certification requirements established by the California State Board of Fire Services.	This course parallels Instructional Techniques Part 2 offered by the California Fire Service Training and Education System (CFSTES). The topics covered include preparing course outlines, establishing levels of instruction, constructing behavioral objectives and lesson plans, instructional aid development, and the fundamentals of testing and evaluation. The course applies to Fire Officer, Fire Instructor I and Public Education Officer II certification requirements established by the California State Board of Fire Services.
Fire and Emergency Technology 95 (formerly Fire and Emergency Technology 95abcd) Cooperative Work Experience Education 2-4 units; hours to be arranged Enrollment Limitation: Employment or volunteer work in a position related to the student’s major or career goal by the second week of the semester. Completion of or current enrollment in one course from the major. Credit, degree applicable Transfer CSU*	Fire and Emergency Technology 99 (formerly Fire and Emergency Technology 99abc) Independent Study 1-3 units; hours to be arranged Enrollment Limitation: two courses in Fire and Emergency Technology with a minimum grade of B in each and acknowledgment by instructor with whom the student will work Credit, degree applicable Transfer CSU*
Through a set of learning objectives established by the student, supervisor, and instructor, each student will work with and learn from experts in the Fire and Emergency Technology field. These experiences will enable students to improve job skills, analyze career opportunities and requirements, and compare them to personal abilities and career expectations. Note: Transfer limitations apply. Note: The total units earned for Cooperative Work Experience Education may not exceed 16 units.	This course provides special advanced studies in a subject field of Fire and Emergency Technology not covered in the regular departmental offerings. Regular conferences with the instructor are coordinated with assigned Fire and Emergency Technology projects (54 hours per unit). Note: Transfer limitations apply. Note: For eligibility requirements, go to www.elcamino.edu/admissions/credit.asp
Fire and Emergency Technology 100 Fire Management 1 2 units; 2 hours lecture Recommended Preparation: Fire and Emergency Technology 1 or current employment in the field Credit, degree applicable Transfer CSU	Fire and Emergency Technology 130 Basic Prehospital Care Principles 2 units; 3 hours lecture to be arranged (13 week course) Enrollment Limitation: admission to Paramedical Technician Program Credit, degree applicable
This course parallels the Management and Supervision for Company Officers course offered by the California Fire Service Training and Education Systems (CFSTES). The course is designed to prepare or enhance the first line supervisor's ability to supervise subordinates in a fire company and introduces key management concepts and practices utilized in the California fire service. The course includes discussions about decision-making, leadership styles, personnel evaluations, and counseling guidelines. This course applies to Fire Officer certification requirements established by the California State Board of Fire Services.	This course provides an introduction to medical terminology, along with a review of surface anatomy and physiology. The course presents an overview of the human nervous system, cardiovascular system, and respiratory system. Aseptic techniques will be described and demonstrated.
Fire and Emergency Technology 131 Field Assessing and Reporting 1.5 units; 2 hours lecture, 1 hour lab to be arranged (13 week course) Enrollment Limitation: admission to Paramedical Technician Program Credit, degree applicable	Fire and Emergency Technology 132 Prehospital Care Pharmacology 1.5 units; 2 hours lecture, 1 hour lab to be arranged (13 week course) Enrollment Limitation: admission to Paramedical Technician Program Credit, degree applicable
This course covers assessment techniques used in a nonhospital/non-clinical setting. The necessity of obtaining complete and accurate vital signs is stressed. Trauma assessment is discussed and demonstrated.	This course provides an introduction to the study of drugs and their ongoing nature and effect on living tissue. A study of the various drugs that are available to the prehospital care technician is presented along with medication administration techniques. An introduction to intravenous (IV) therapy and drug therapy is covered.
Fire and Emergency Technology 133 Basic and Advanced Life Support 6.5 units; 9 hours lecture to be arranged (13 week course) Enrollment Limitation: admission to Paramedical Technician Program Credit, degree applicable	Fire and Emergency Technology 134 Medical Emergencies 4 units; 6 hours lecture, 1 hour lab to be arranged (13 week course) Enrollment Limitation: admission to Paramedical Technician Program Credit, degree applicable
This course provides students with a review of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) techniques and sophisticated forms of airway management. The course presents an introduction and interpretation of electrocardiogram (EKG) rhythms with the use of an oscilloscope. Drugs used in cardiac arrest situations are discussed. Simulation exercises are conducted throughout the course.	This course covers a variety of medical emergencies that a paramedic is most likely to encounter. Topics presented include, but are not limited to communicable diseases, chest pain, drug abuse/poisonings, diabetes, neurological complications, and respiratory distress.
Fire and Emergency Technology 135 Traumatic Emergencies 2 units; 3 hours lecture to be arranged (13 week course) Enrollment Limitation: admission to Paramedical Technician Program Credit, degree applicable	Fire and Emergency Technology 136 Special Patient Emergencies 2 units; 3 hours lecture to be arranged (13 week course) Enrollment Limitation: admission to Paramedical Technician Program Credit, degree applicable
This course covers the causes and treatment of bodily injuries due to trauma. Topics include maxillofacial and soft tissue injuries, burns, head, spinal, chest and abdominal wounds, emergency childbirth and multi-casualty incidents.	This course focuses on emergencies, which involve unresponsive patients, from pediatric to geriatric, patients, and methods for resuscitating these victims. Discussions include obstetrical and behavioral problems as well as circumstances surrounding paramedic critical incident stress.
Fire and Emergency Technology 137 Emergency Medical Services (EMS)/Legal Aspects/Documentation 2 units; 3 hours lecture, 1 hour lab to be arranged (13 week course) Enrollment Limitation: admission to Paramedical Technician Program Credit, degree applicable	Fire and Emergency Technology 138 Paramedic Clinical Internship 3 units; 40 hours lab per week to be arranged (4 week course) Prerequisite: Fire and Emergency Technology 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136 and 137 with a minimum grade of C in each prerequisite course Enrollment Limitation: admission to Paramedical Technician Program Credit, degree applicable
This course covers the laws and legal authority which govern the scope of practice for the paramedic. Also discussed are documentation techniques, paramedic report writing, and skills competency testing.	This course provides the student with an opportunity to apply knowledge and skills learned in the preceding courses to patient care. The emphasis of the course is to increase the student’s assessment and diagnostic skills in a clinical setting. Note: Pass/no pass only.
Fire and Emergency Technology 139 Paramedic Field Internship 8.5 units; 60 hours lab per week to be arranged (8 week course) Prerequisite: Fire and Emergency Technology 138 with a minimum grade of C Enrollment Limitation: admission to Paramedical Technician Program Credit, degree applicable	Fire and Emergency Technology 144 Emergency Medical Technician 6 units; 5 hours lecture, 3 hours lab Prerequisite: Possession of a current Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers (HCP) certification or BLS for Prehospital Providers (PHP) certification. Must be issued by the American Heart Association or American Red Cross and not expire less than six months from the start date of class. Credit, degree applicable Transfer CSU
This course provides an in-depth opportunity for the student to apply the skills and techniques that are necessary for a paramedic. The student will complete a field internship in a designated mobile intensive care unit under the supervision and evaluation of a certified paramedic or mobile intensive care nurse. Note: Pass/no pass only.	In this course, students will study through lecture, role-play, simulations, field work, and hands-on practical training, the basic skills necessary for the assessment, rescue, immediate treatment and transport of the urgently ill or injured person. Course content emphasizes emergency scene size-up, situational awareness, identifying and correcting life-threatening conditions, utilizing appropriate rescue techniques, and developing a systematic approach for providing pre-hospital care and safe transportation. Note: Proof of Basic Life Support (BLS) certification will be checked the first day of class for admission. Students successfully completing this course with a minimum grade of B will be eligible to take the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) written exam within two years. Note: Students pay fees for this course for a background check. Proof of immunizations is required to complete hospital and ambulance field work and include MMR, Tdap, Varicella, and Hepatitis B. Must provide TB results (two PPD skin tests 1-3 weeks apart). Note: This course is repeatable.
Fire and Emergency Technology 150 Fire Specialized Training 2 units; 1 hour lecture per week to be arranged, 4 hours lab per week to be arranged Prerequisite: 1. Successful completion of a California State Fire Marshal certified fire academy. 2. Proof of passing the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) National Registry Examination. 3. Furnish proof of a current negative Tuberculosis (TB) test. Test must be taken within 12 months and valid during class period. 4. Completion of background investigation. Background investigation to be completed prior to attending the first class session. See the Division Office of Industry and Technology for details. Credit, degree applicable Transfer CSU
This course will acquaint the student with current changes in contemporary firefighting techniques. Major topics include fire service appliances, fire chemistry, automatic fire extinguishers and agents. Additional topics include fire prevention and enforcement, arson investigation, public safety, hazardous materials control and enforcement, communication, and emergency medical techniques. Note: Pass/no pass only. Note: This course is repeatable.