Fire Technology
40 courses · Merced College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026 · Spring 2027
FIRE-24 Work Experience in Fire Technology
- Units
- 1-8
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course enables students to earn college credit for learning or improving skills or knowledge on-the-job in the field of fire science. Fifty-four (54) hours, either paid or volunteer, are required per unit of credit attempted. Students must have an established work site in fire science prior to enrolling in the course. (2/24)
FIRE-30 Fire Protection Organization
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course provides students with a comprehensive overview of the fire service, its history, traditions, and evolving role in modern society. Using Introduction to Fire Protection and Emergency Services, Seventh Edition as the primary text, students will explore the organization and function of fire departments at the local, state, and federal levels, as well as public and private fire protection systems. Topics include the chemistry and physics of fire, fire prevention, fire protection systems, emergency operations, incident command, firefighter safety, and career opportunities within the fire service. Emphasis is placed on understanding the interrelationship between fire prevention, suppression, investigation, and emergency services, preparing students for further study and future careers as fire service professionals. (01/26)
FIRE-31 Fire Behavior and Combustion
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course introduces students to the fundamental principles of fire behavior and combustion, providing a scientific foundation for understanding how and why fires start, spread, and are controlled. Students will study the physical and chemical properties of fire, the combustion process, ignition, heat transfer, flame spread, and the stages of fire development. The course also examines fire dynamics in different fuel types and building environments, as well as the influence of oxygen, fuel, heat, and chemical reactions on fire growth. Emphasis is placed on applying these concepts to firefighter safety, suppression strategies, and community risk reduction. Fire 31 is a core requirement in the Merced College Fire Technology Program and prepares students for more advanced fire science courses and professional fire service training. (12/25)
FIRE-32 Fire Prevention Technology
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course provides students with a comprehensive study of fire prevention as the foundation of community risk reduction and firefighter safety. Students will explore the history and philosophy of fire prevention, model codes and standards, inspection practices, and the role of fire prevention in modern fire protection organizations. Topics include building and fire codes, fire protection systems, plan review, fire investigation, and public education programs. Emphasis is placed on the relationship between fire prevention and community safety, as well as the responsibilities of fire service professionals in reducing the risk of fire through proactive measures. Fire 32 is a required course in the Merced College Fire Technology Program and prepares students for careers in fire prevention, inspection, investigation, and fire protection systems management. (12/25)
FIRE-33 Fire Protection Equipment and Systems
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-30
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course introduces students to the design, operation, inspection, and maintenance of fire protection equipment and systems used in modern fire protection and life safety. Topics include water supply systems, standpipes, sprinklers, fire pumps, special extinguishing systems, detection and alarm systems, and portable fire extinguishers. Students will examine how these systems function individually and as part of an integrated fire protection plan, with emphasis on their role in safeguarding life and property while supporting fire service operations. Using current fire protection standards and codes, students will learn the fundamentals of system testing, maintenance, and acceptance procedures. Fire 33 is a core requirement in the Merced College Fire Technology Program and prepares students for careers in suppression, inspection, prevention, and fire protection system management. (12/25)
FIRE-34 Building Construction for Fire Protection
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course examines the principles of building construction as they relate to fire protection and firefighter safety. Students will study construction methods, materials, and structural design features, with emphasis on how buildings respond under fire conditions. Topics include the five types of construction, fire resistance, occupancy classifications, structural collapse hazards, and the relationship between building design and fire behavior. Students will also analyze historic fires and case studies to understand the impact of construction on fire spread, suppression strategies, and firefighter survival. Fire 34 is a required course in the Merced College Fire Technology Program and provides students with the knowledge needed to evaluate building hazards, support fire prevention, and operate safely in fire suppression and rescue operations. (12/25)
FIRE-35 Firefighting Tactics and Strategy
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-30
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course relates basic fire chemistry, equipment , and manpower, to fire fighting tactics and strategy, methods of attack, and pre-planning. (12/18)
FIRE-36 Hazardous Materials
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-30;
- Corequisite
- FIRE-31 (one-way)
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course presents the theory and fundamentals of how and why fires start, spread, and are controlled: an in-depth study of fire chemistry and physics, fire characteristics of materials, extinguishing agents, and fire control techniques. (12/18)
FIRE-37 Fire Hydraulics
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-30 or current volunteer, paid call, seasonal or full-time firefighter for a certified fire protection department
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course is a basic review of mathematics, hydraulic laws and formulas, and water supply and pump requirements as applied to fire service. (11/16)
FIRE-40 Principles of Fire and Emergency Services Safety and Survival
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course introduces students to the basic principles of firefighter safety and survival as identified by national initiatives to reduce firefighter line-of-duty injuries and deaths. Students will examine risk management, accountability, medical and fitness standards, training and certification, response protocols, and safety-related grants and resources. Topics include the 16 Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives, investigation of firefighter fatalities and near misses, and the integration of safety practices into fireground operations and organizational culture. Emphasis is placed on developing a personal and professional commitment to firefighter health, wellness, and survival while promoting community safety. Fire 40 is a required course in the Merced College Fire Technology Program and prepares students to recognize, prevent, and respond to safety hazards in the fire service. (12/25)
FIRE-41 Fire and Life Safety Educator
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
Fire and Life Safety Educator surrounds community outreach methods, how to effectively teach fire and life safety, and how to market prevention and preparedness messages to all age groups. In-depth instruction advises on developing fire and life safety curricula, objectives, lesson plans, and presentations. The course covers all aspects of designing, budgeting for, and managing a fire and life safety program; public relations and persuasion tactics; legal considerations; and best professional practices. The importance of program evaluation and how to conduct an evaluation is explained. This course addresses the public information officer role and specific responsibilities, Youth Firesetter intervention strategies, and Youth Firesetter program implementation.(10/25)
FIRE-42 Fire Inspector
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
Fire Investigator is designed to equip students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary to conduct thorough and legally sound fire origin and cause investigations. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to identify and analyze fire patterns, recognize indicators of incendiary and accidental fires, apply scientific methods in fire scene examination, and properly collect, preserve, and document physical evidence. Additionally, students will develop the ability to interpret burn indicators, conduct witness interviews, and prepare comprehensive investigative reports suitable for legal proceedings. This course aligns with nationally recognized standards and supports students pursuing careers in fire investigation, law enforcement, insurance, and other fire service disciplines focused on determining fire causes and preventing future incidents. (10/25)
FIRE-43 Fire Investigator
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
Fire Inspector provides students with a basic knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of a Fire Inspector including legal responsibilities and authority, codes and standards, the inspection process, confidentiality and privacy requirements, and ethical conduct, and administrative tasks including preparing inspection reports, recognizing the need for a permit or plan review, investigating common complaints, and participating in legal proceedings. Other topics include building construction, occupancy types, fire behavior, growth, and fire protection systems. (10/25)
FIRE-47A Fire Investigation - 1a
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 36 total hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-30 or current volunteer, paid call, or seasonal or full-time firefighter for a certified fire protection department
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course is an introduction to arson, laws related to arson, types of incendiary fires, and methods of determining fire cause and recognizing and preserving evidence. A special emphasis will be placed on report-writing techniques. (11/18)
FIRE-47B Fire Investigation - 1b
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 36 total hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-47A
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course covers evidence related to arson and fire deaths, interviewing, and interrogating. Investigation of structure, wildland, and vehicle fires are covered as well as fire scene documentation; search and seizure laws are also covered. (11/18)
FIRE-58 Firefighter Basic Skills
- Units
- 9
- Hours
- 7.5 hours lecture, 4.5 hours lab
Provides the firefighter with basic knowledge of fire behavior and control and basic skills to safely perform essential fire ground tasks with minimal supervision. Student must supply instructor-approved personal protective equipment (required instructional supply). (02/22)
FIRE-63A Basic Firefighter I Academy, Part 1
- Units
- 8
- Hours
- 4 hours lecture, 12 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-30 and FIRE-31 or Existing Paid Call (Volunteer) Firefighter
Fire 63A is the first course in the Merced College Fire Academy sequence designed to prepare students for Firefighter 1 certification through California State Fire Training (SFT). This course provides comprehensive instruction and hands-on training in structural firefighting, emphasizing fire behavior, building construction, fireground operations, hose handling, ladders, ventilation, forcible entry, rescue techniques, and the use of personal protective equipment and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). This rigorous academy provides the essential knowledge, skills, and professional credentials necessary for a successful firefighting career and prepares students for advanced training in Firefighter 1, Part 2 (HAZMAT and Wildland Firefighting) (02/26)
FIRE-63B Firefighter I Academy , Part 2
- Units
- 8
- Hours
- 4 hours lecture, 12 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-63A
Fire 63B is the second course in the Merced College Fire Academy sequence, designed to prepare students for Firefighter 1 certification through California State Fire Training (SFT). This course builds upon the foundational skills learned in Fire 63A and provides advanced instruction and hands-on training in Hazardous Materials First Responder – Operational (FRO) and Wildland Firefighting. Students will develop the knowledge and skills necessary to safely recognize, evaluate, and control hazardous materials incidents in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. In addition, the course provides students training in the safe and effective use of wildland firefighting tools and techniques, including progressive hose lays, mobile pumping operations, constructing fireline by hand and with tools, operating portable pumps, maintaining situational awareness, and deploying fire shelters under simulated emergency conditions. (02/26)
FIRE-63C Firefighter 2 Academy
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1 hour lecture, 6 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- State Fire Training’s Fire Fighter 1 – Acquired through Merced College Fire 63A and Fire 63B Firefighter 1 Academy or another established and approved State Fire Training Accredited Regional Training Program (ARTP), or Accredited Local Academy (SFT-ALA)
This State Fire Training - Firefighter 2 course provides the skills and knowledge needed for the firefighter to take on increased leadership roles and responsibilities in fire department communications, fireground operations, rescue operations, fire and life safety initiatives, preparedness, and maintenance. This course is for students who have completed the Merced College Firefighter 1 Academy (or Equivalent) AND have attained their Firefighter 1 credential through State Fire Training, OR have attained their Firefighter 1 credential through another approved State Fire Training - Accredited Regional Training Program (SFT-ARTP) or Accredited Local Academy (SFT- ALA) and is the next State Fire Training certification level after SFT Firefighter 1. (10/25)
FIRE-63D Fire Fighter 1 and 2 Certification Testing
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- Completion of Firefighter 1 and/or 2 Academy Training through an ARTP, ALA, or Recognized Fire Department or Agency
Fire Fighter 1 and 2 Testing provides candidates the opportunity to complete the State Fire Training (SFT) Fire Fighter 1 and/or Fire Fighter 2 certification testing process. This course is designed for students and firefighters who are seeking to obtain their Fire Fighter 1 and/or Fire Fighter 2 certifications through SFT and is intended for individuals who may not have successfully passed their initial certification testing through the Merced College Accredited Regional Training Program (ARTP) or another accredited fire academy, or those who have completed fire fighter training elsewhere and wish to pursue certification through the SFT Alternate Delivery Candidate (ADC) pathway. (03/26)
FIRE-65C Wildland Firefighting Strategy & Tactics
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 1 hour lecture
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-30 or Existing Paid Call (Volunteer) Firefighter
This course stresses the fundamentals of initial-attack wildland firefighting and how to apply wildland firefighting strategy and tactics during the suppression effort which also includes live fire control. Must have instructor approved fire protective gear. (09/19)
FIRE-65E Introduction to Hazardous Materials Awareness
- Units
- 0.5
- Hours
- 0.5 hour lecture
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-30 or Existing Paid Call (Volunteer) Firefighter
This course is a general introduction to hazardous materials awareness with emphasis on placards, identification and recognition, decision-making in emergencies, detecting hazardous materials presence, and estimating the likely harm without intervention. (10/19)
FIRE-65F Hazardous Materials – First Responder Operations (H M F.r.o.)
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 20.7 total hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- Existing Paid Call (Volunteer) Firefighter
- Advisory
- FIRE-30
This course covers how hazardous materials can harm people, the environment, and property, and how the first responder may use clues to recognize a hazardous materials incident and implement actions to protect themselves and the public. (09/19)
FIRE-65G Firstresponderoperations–decontamination (Decon Fro)
- Units
- 0.5
- Hours
- 0.5 hour lecture
- Advisory
- FIRE-30 or current volunteer, paid call, or seasonal or full-time firefighter for a certified fire protection department, FIRE-65F
This course covers how to safely and competently perform “Fully/ Primary” decontamination in at least “Level B” personal protective equipment based on agency or generic Decon SOP. This course builds upon FRO competencies to perform decontamination functions within the contamination reduction zone. (09/19)
FIRE-66D Equipment Operator for Volunteer Firefighters
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-30 or current volunteer, paid call, or seasonal or full-time firefighter for a certified fire protection department
This course provides the firefighter with basic knowledge of radio communications use regarding size-up and report conditions. Forms and reports related to operating equipment and incidents are covered as well as emergency equipment placement, and strategy and tactics for structure, wildland, and vehicle fires. Auto extrication and defensive driving and pump theory are included. (09/19)
FIRE-67A Low-Angle Rope Rescue, Operational
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 1 hour lecture
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-30
This course is designed to introduce the novice to the basics of equipment nomenclature, rope design and construction, care and maintenance, and knots and webbing as they apply to rope rescue emergencies. (09/19)
FIRE-67B Auto Extrication
- Units
- 0.5
- Hours
- .5 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-30 or currently a paid call, seasonal, or full-time firefighter
This course provides classroom instruction of vehicle rescue concepts. It introduces students to common vehicle rescue tools and hands-on practice of basic techniques used to free persons entrapped in vehicles as a result of traffic collisions. To successfully complete the skills portion, students must have the ability to lift tools that may weigh in excess of 50 pounds and perform other rigorous physical tasks. Students must supply instructor approved personal protective equipment (required instructional material) equivalent to that of a structural firefighting ensemble. This shall, at a minimum, include a helmet with face shield and/or goggles, leather gloves, turnout coat and pants, and turnout boots (or steel toed lace-up leather boots at least 8” in height with lugged soles). (09/19)
FIRE-68B Basic Incident Command System (I-200)
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 1 hour lecture
This course is designed for the entry-level and veteran firefighter. The subject matter relates to principles and features of ICS, organization, incident facilities, incident resources and responsibilities associated with ICS Assignments. Student must have instructor verified ICS (1- 100) completion. (09/19)
FIRE-68C Incident Command System - Intermediate (I-300)
- Units
- 1.5
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-68B
This course is designed for the entry-level and veteran firefighter. The subject matter relates to organization and staffing for incidents or events, incident resources management, air operations, and incident event planning. (11/17)
FIRE-69A First Responder Medical
- Units
- 2.5
- Hours
- 2.5 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-30 or currently a paid call, seasonal, or full-time firefighter
This course is designed to meet the state requirements for emergency medical personnel. The course relates to patient assessment, cardiovascular systems, fractures, splinting, childbirth, and environmental emergencies. (09/19)
FIRE-69B First Responder Re-Certification
- Units
- 1.5
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-69A
This course is designed to meet the state re-certification requirements for emergency medical personnel. The course relates to patient assessment, cardiovascular systems, fractures, splinting, childbirth and environmental emergencies. Must possess a current valid CPR card in Basic Life Support of Health Care Providers. (11/18)
FIRE-71A Fire and Emergency Services Instructor 1
- Units
- 2.5
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 1.5 hours lab
This course provides the skills and knowledge needed for the entry-level professional instructor to safely, effectively, and competently teach and deliver instruction from a prepared lesson plan utilizing instructional aids and evaluation instruments, adapt a lesson plan, and complete the reporting requirements to the local jurisdiction. This course is designed for personnel preparing to be a college-level fire instructor, Company Officer, or SFT Registered Instructor, or anyone who provides instruction in a public safety environment. (12/25)
FIRE-71B Fire Instructor II
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-71A
This course is designed for the fire company officer who conducts in-service training programs. The course provides instruction in the use of visual aids, test construction, and teaching demonstrations. The successful completion of this course and the State Fire Marshal’s examination will result in State certification. (11/18)
FIRE-72A Fire Command I -- Module a
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 40 total hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-73A
This course is designed to provide the fire company officer with information and experience in command and control techniques at the scene of an emergency. (11/18)
FIRE-72B Fire Command I -- Module B
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 40 total hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-72A
This course is designed to provide the fire company officer with information and experience in command and control techniques at the scene of a hazardous materials emergency. (11/18)
FIRE-73A Fire Inspector 1a
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 40 total hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-30 or current volunteer, paid call, or seasonal or full-time firefighter for a certified fire protection department
This course provides students with a basic knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of a Fire Inspector I including legal responsibilities and authority, codes and standards, the inspection process, confidentiality and privacy requirements, and ethical conduct, and administrative tasks including preparing inspection reports, recognizing the need for a permit or plan review, investigating common complaints, and participating in legal proceedings. (10/17)
FIRE-73B Fire Inspector 1b
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 40 total hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-73A
This course provides students with a basic knowledge of fire and life safety aspects related to the roles and responsibilities of a Fire Inspector I including building construction, occupancy classifications, occupancy load, means of egress, hazardous conditions, fire growth potential, fire flow, and emergency planning and preparedness measures. (10/17)
FIRE-75 Fire Management I - Management for Company Officers
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 40 total hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- FIRE-30 or current volunteer, paid call, or seasonal or full-time firefighter for a certified fire protection department
This course will provide instruction to improve the student’s managerial effectiveness and will require demonstration of growth and development in the use of managerial skills. The course will stress resource identification and utilization. (11/18)
FIRE-76A Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator 1a
- Units
- 2.5
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 1.5 hours lab
This course provides the knowledge and skills needed to perform preventive maintenance on and drive or operate a fire apparatus. Topics include routine tests, inspections, and servicing functions; operating, backing, maneuvering, and turning a fire apparatus under a variety of conditions; and operating all fixed systems and equipment on a fire apparatus. Fulfills the requirements for a Class C driver’s license fire fighter endorsement. (12/25)
FIRE-76B Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator 1b
- Units
- 2.5
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 1.5 hours lab
This course provides the knowledge and skills needed to operate and perform preventative maintenance on a pumping apparatus. Topics include routine tests, inspections, and servicing functions; producing hand, master, and foam fire streams; relay pump operations; and supplying water to fire sprinkler and standpipe systems. (12/25)