You must be at least 18 years old to become a firefighter
Currently, the maximum age to become firefighter is 28. But, this will soon be raised to 30, The goal is to increase the representation of people of color and women in the ranks, according to FDNY officials. Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley, chair of the City Council’s Committee on Fire and Criminal Justice has endorsed this bill. It was praised by supporters, as well as those who opposed it.
The fire service does not discriminate against seniors, but younger applicants tend to possess the essential skills and attributes for the job. A 40-yearold may be stronger than someone twenty-years older, but they might not be as agile or decisive. In addition, younger applicants are more likely to have worked in the physical arts than older people.
Age restrictions exceptions
While the age limit for firefighters is generally 35 years old, there are some exceptions to the rule. A person who has served in the military could be eligible to become an emergency responder at the young age of 29. You may also be eligible if you have worked in another industry and are not currently employed by the fire department.
McCloskey's case is an example. In this instance, the plaintiff was an FDNY EMT and challenged the age limit. In McCloskey, the New York state supreme courts ruled that the age limit for firefighters is constitutional. O'Donoghue's legal action was not affected.
Firefighting requires a lot of physical effort. It does require intensive training. While some fire departments prohibit firefighters under the age of 18, others allow them to be volunteers. National Volunteer Fire Council runs a national junior program.
ADEA application for state and local firefighters: Effect of age limit
Federal Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), applies to firefighter employees, including local and state fire departments. Employers do not have to hire anyone under 21 years. The Supreme Court addressed the question of age limits in Mount Lemmon Fire District.
Employers can use the ADEA to determine if a retirement age is appropriate under the circumstances. BFOQ, one of these exemptions, is available. In order to use the BFOQ, employers must have a reason to justify the age limit for non-federal firefighters.
A few exceptions allow the state or local government to establish an upper age limit. Some exemptions, including those for firefighters and police officers, are unique. But, employers are still subjected to age restrictions. The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), was initially enacted to stop age discrimination in the workplace.