Basic Wildland Firefighter

Course Overview

Wildfires are unpredictable, fast-moving, and dangerous. Whether you’re protecting your own land, part of a community response group, or supporting a wildfire crew, you need to understand the fundamentals before you step into the field.

This theory-only online course introduces the principles, terminology, and tactics of wildfire suppression. You will build confidence in understanding wildfire behaviour, suppression techniques, safety protocols, and communication tools – all critical for working in wildfire-prone environments.

Our Basic Wildfire course provides a solid knowledge base for further training, certification, or safer land management practices.

What You'll Learn
  • Recognise and explain key characteristics of wildfire behaviour
  • Understand how weather, topography, and fuel types influence fire movement
  • Understand wildfire safety protocols and how to protect yourself and others
  • Communicate effectively using radio and hand signals in wildfire environments
  • Learn how to manage hose lines and equipment (theory-based only)
What We Offer
  • 100% online, self-paced learning

  • A course aligned with SAQA unit standards

  • 24/7 access to our online learning platform

  • Guided modules, downloadable resources, interactive videos and knowledge checks

  • Real-world scenarios adapted for local contexts

  • Earn a certificate of completion from Vulcan Risk Solutions
Who Should Do This Course?

This course is ideal for:

  • Private landowners and property managers in wildfire-prone areas
  • Community wildfire groups and volunteers
  • Companies operating near forests, grasslands, or conservation areas
  • Environmental teams working in land stewardship, farming, or eco-tourism
  • Event organisers hosting outdoor activities in high-risk zones
  • Security and response contractors looking to upskill their teams

You do not need to be a qualified firefighter to join – this course is designed to provide accessible, essential knowledge for anyone who may encounter wildfire risk.

Prerequisites

There are no formal prerequisites for this course. It’s designed as an entry-level introduction to wildfire awareness and suppression theory.

Please note:

  • This is a theory-only course, delivered online.
  • This course is based on SAQA-aligned content but does not include a Portfolio of Evidence (POE) or practical evaluation.
  • Learners who wish to complete the full SAQA-accredited training will need to complete an in-person assessment and POE separately. Please reach out to us at ask@vulcanrisksolutions.com to find out more.
Course Details

FULL COURSE DURATION

  • 5 Weeks

COURSE TYPE

  • Online, short learning program (theory only)

START DATE

  • On-Demand course, start your as soon as you’re enrolled.
  • Full SAQA-accredited training is cohort based. Please email ask@vulcanrisksolutions.com for more info.

R1950

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Accreditations & Endorsements 

Vulcan is an accredited FP&M Seta Training Provider

Vulcan Training Certificate of Completion

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What Our Students Say

“The whole course impressed me. Everything was put together perfectly and explained well.”

Annuska O.

VWS Volunteer

“The course really exceeded my expectations and was way better than I could have imagined. I was really really impressed by the amount of attention to detail and effort that went into this.”

Declan M.

VWS Volunteer

“Very professionally run and I learnt a great deal from the online content “

Jaco F.

VWS Volunteer

Vulcan Risk Solutions. High Quality Wildfire Training.

Ready to Get Started?

Take the next step in your wildfire management journey. Enrol today and start learning at your own pace, from anywhere.

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