Wildfire Crew Leader Single Resource Leader

Course Overview

The Crew Leader (Single Resource Leader) course is designed to help experienced wildfire responders transition into frontline leadership. This theory-only, blended learning course focuses on the knowledge, mindset, and decision-making abilities needed to confidently lead a wildfire suppression crew.

Structured around the responsibilities of a Crew Leader in the wildfire environment (known in ICS/IMS as a Single Resource Leader), this programme blends online theory, leadership reflection, group workshops, and simulation-based exercises. You will gain insight into your own leadership readiness, while developing the operational awareness and crew management strategies needed in high-pressure wildfire situations.

This course is aligned with SAQA Unit Standards 123231 and 123232 and forms part of a broader wildfire leadership development pathway. Whether you’re preparing to take on new responsibilities or looking to sharpen your tactical leadership, this course lays the foundation for stepping into a formal wildfire leadership role.

 

What You'll Learn
  • Understand the key duties and responsibilities of a Crew Leader during wildfire suppression
  • Apply suppression strategies including methods of attack, firing operations, and use of control lines
  • Manage operations from mobilisation through to demobilisation, with full awareness of legal and safety obligations
  • Communicate clearly across the chain of command, including briefings, tasking, and updates
  • Identify and mitigate operational hazards using structured risk assessment methods
  • Engage in online and classroom simulation exercises to practise real-time decision-making
  • Reflect on personal leadership readiness and grow core competencies for emergency leadership
What We Offer
  • 100% online, self-paced theory modules, with 24/7 access to our learning platform

  • A course aligned with SAQA unit standards

  • Guided modules, downloadable resources, interactive videos and knowledge checks
  • Online workshops and discussion-based exercises
  • Leadership aptitude reflection and review
  • Earn a certificate of completion from Vulcan Risk Solutions
  • Access to a curated Wildfire Leadership Resource Hub for extended learning
Who Should Do This Course?

This course is ideal for:

  • Wildland firefighters with field experience who are stepping into crew leadership roles
  • Volunteers or team leads managing suppression crews in wildfire-prone environments
  • Safety officers, wildfire contractors, and municipal fire team members
  • Organisations aiming to strengthen operational leadership within wildfire teams
  • Anyone seeking structured, SAQA-aligned wildfire leadership development

Whether you’re leading a small crew in the field or preparing for larger incident deployments, this course equips you with the mindset and tools to lead safely and effectively.

    Prerequisites

    To be formally recognised in the Crew Leader (Single Resource Leader) role, learners must meet the following prerequisites:

    • SAQA Unit Standard 117082 – Contribute to the Suppression of Wildfires
    • SAQA Unit Standard 117079 – Demonstrate Standard Safety Procedures during Active Wildfire Suppression
    • First Aid Level 1 (recommended)
    • Communication and Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 3
    • Generic Supervisory Skills at NQF Level 3
    • Valid driver’s licence (recommended for field appointments)

    Note: You may still enrol in this course without all prerequisites, but you’ll need to complete them before being formally appointed to a Crew Leader role.

      Course Details

      FULL COURSE DURATION

      •  4 Weeks

      COURSE TYPE

      • Online, blended short learning program 

      START DATE

      • Run on request, register your interest by clicking enquire now
      • All prices include VAT

      R4250

      Enquire Now

      Accreditations & Endorsements 

      Vulcan Training is an accredited FP&M Seta Training Provider

      Vulcan Training Certificate of Completion

      BACK TO COURSES
      ENQUIRE NOW

      What Our Students Say

      “A fantastic course! Very insightful, realistic, interesting course that opens one’s eyes to many facets of fire management, tactics, safety, fire behaviour etc. not considered before.“

      Mike R.

      Volunteer Wildfire Services

      “Awesome course! Really well presented, thoughtful, and meaningful. I really appreciate the effort and high level of professionalism that accompanied all courses I have done with Vulcan thus far.”

      Eugene G.

      VWS/Stellenbosch University

      “The videos were my favourite! Real case scenarios/stories narrated by crews who were on the scene makes it very real & relatable. I enjoyed the content, was fully captivated and made a lot of sense. Great tool for learning with the quizzes.”

      Sebastian R.

      Volunteer Wildfire Services

      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.

      Enquire Now