Become a Cadet

The Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Cadet Program was established in 1979 to further the interest of high school students in the opportunity to become exposed to a career in the fire rescue service. During weekly meetings, the Program allows students hands-on participation in the fire, medical and technical rescue aspects of the fire service. On allocated weekends, the Cadets provide first aid at organizational functions, provide manpower at community events, and further their training in the fire rescue service.

The Cadets participate in extensive training combined with a ride-along system where Cadets team up with Miami-Dade firefighters on medical rescue units as part of the crew.

Students who complete the probationary recruit class and transition into the Cadet Program gain valuable community service hours that may be utilized for high school graduation and scholarship requirements.

To join the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Cadet Program you must go through the Cadet Recruit Class which is a 4-6-week training program conducted over the summer and open to students entering high school. The training includes a combination of instructional coursework (EMS and Fire), community service activities and a ride-along program. Cadets work with Miami-Dade firefighters on medical rescue units assisting the crews during real emergency events.

Once all required exams and performance objectives are completed the recruited cadet will graduate into the CADET Program. Each cadet is issued a complete uniform but is responsible for providing their own black steel-toe boots.

Cadets will receive community service hours for all first aid and community service events attended. A cadet may earn an average of 125 to 200 community service hours per year, depending on how active they choose to be in service activities.

The application period for the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Cadet Program opens from January 1-31 for the summer recruit class.

For more information, please send email inquiry to [email protected].