Basic Firefighting Course and Training for Mariners
Enroll today in Sea School’s two (2) day course and get classroom and hands-on experience in fire theory, prevention, detection, and safety. Practice fire rescue with simulated scenarios using blind egress and other Coast Guard required exercises pertaining to shipboard fire control.
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Why Thousands of Mariners Choose Sea School?
Each year, over 7,500 students choose Sea School for their maritime training. We offer 30+ USCG-approved courses across in-person, online, and satellite formats, with training available at 6 locations nationwide. Team training is also available on-site or via satellite to meet company needs.
Sea School’s Basic Firefighting course
It provides a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on field training to equip mariners with essential fire identification, prevention, detection, and firefighting skills. Participants will also learn search and rescue (SAR) techniques and how to navigate dark, smoke-filled environments.
This two (2) day course is a required component of Sea School’s STCW Basic Training (formerly Basic Safety Training).
Basic Firefighting (BFF) Completion and Certification Requirements
The Fire Fighting training requirements of 46 CFR 13.121(e)(3); AND
The Basic Fire Fighting requirements of 46 CFR 11.201(h)(2) [Basic only] and 46 CFR 11.201(h)(3); AND
The Fire Fighting requirements for a national tankerman endorsement in 46 CFR 13.201(c)(3), 13.301(c)(3), 13.401(d), and 13.501(c)(3); AND
The Basic Fire Fighting standards of competence required by 46 CFR 11.302(a)(2) and 12.602(a)(2); STCW Code Section A-VI/1 and Table A-VI/1-2, as amended 2010, meeting the National Assessment Guidelines from NVIC 08-14(Ch-1) Tasks 2.1.A, 2.2.A, 2.3.A, 2.4.A, 2.5.A, 2.5.B, 2.5.C, 2.6.A, 2.7.A, 2.8.A, 2.8.B, 2.8.C, 2.9.A, 2.9.B, 3.1.A, 3.2.A, 3.2.B, 3.3.A, 3.4.A, 3.4.B, 3.5.A, 3.6.A, 3.7.A, 3.8.A, 3.8.B, 3.8.C, and 3.8.D.
Why Thousands of Mariners Choose Sea School?
Each year, over 7,500 students choose Sea School for their maritime training. We offer 30+ USCG-approved courses across in-person, online, and satellite formats, with training available at 6 locations nationwide. Team training is also available on-site or via satellite to meet company needs.
Real-World Expertise
Excellence starts with a strong foundation. We believe in mastering fundamental skills, building confidence, and ensuring every mariner has the knowledge and expertise needed to succeed in their career.
Flexible Learning Options
True leadership is demonstrated through action. We foster a hands-on approach, where mariners learn by doing and gain real-world experience that prepares them for the challenges of the industry.
Career Advancement
In the maritime world, challenges are inevitable - but so are solutions. We encourage proactive thinking, problem-solving, and the courage to take initiative.
Industry-Recognized Certifications
We never settle for mediocrity. Whether in training, leadership, or problem-solving, we strive for the highest standards in everything we do.
A Strong Community & Industry Network
Success in the maritime industry requires a strong work ethic. We embrace a roll-up-your-sleeves mentality, knowing that real growth comes from effort and persistence.
Confidence & Leadership Development
Ttrue professionals must be ready to adapt. We believe in staying agile, embracing change, and continuously expanding our skills to meet new challenges.
We’ve developed comprehensive, engaging, and practical curriculum to set you up for success on the water
While the curriculum represented on the Sea School website is a general layout of course information, it is not the exact order in which lessons are taught.
A Simple 3-Step Process to Get Certified and Start Your Maritime Career
Choose Your Course
Pick the course that fits your experience level and sea time and select the available format that works for you (in-person, Zoom, or online).
Enroll & Prepare
Register online or at a Sea School location. Ensure you meet eligibility requirements and start reviewing the provided study materials.
Get Certified
After finishing the course, you will need to submit your application to the Coast Guard to receive your Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC).
What Our Clients Say
What We Provide:
What Students Need to Bring:
Students should bring a pencil, highlighter, and notebook for the classroom. Students will need to bring the following for firefighting:
- Long pants, socks, and closed-toed shoes or boots (no flip-flops or open toed shoes)
- Some way to tie back longer hair
- Insurance regulations require that you be clean shaven so the breathing mask seals securely (mustaches are OK)
Advance your Maritime Career
All the answers you’ll need before enrolling in the Basic Firefighting (BFF) course
A USCG Basic Firefighting course provides mariners with the essential knowledge and skills required to prevent and fight fires on vessels. The program covers key areas such as fire chemistry, fire prevention, firefighting techniques, and the use of firefighting equipment.
Mariners pursuing USCG credentials, especially deck officers or engineers, usually need to complete a Basic Firefighting course. The exact requirements depend on the vessel's type and tonnage, as well as the specific credential sought. In order to get an STCW Basic Training certification, mariners must take a Basic Firefighting course as part of the curriculum.
Typically, a USCG Basic Firefighting course can range from a few days to a week. At Sea School, the Basic Firefighting course is a two-day course.
The Sea School offers Basic and Advanced Firefighting Combination courses at several of our brick and mortar locations. Applicants have to call to register for BFF since it's part of STCW Basic Training, not a stand-alone course. You can also find a list of approved courses on the NMC website under the “Approved Courses” tab. Upon completion of the course, mariners receive a Course Completion Certificate that they must submit alongside a USCG application for official Basic and Advanced Firefighting certifications. It is important to note that a Course Completion Certification is NOT a substitute for the official USCG STCW credential.
BFF certificates are valid for 5 years and must be renewed when your MMC expires.
Yes! At Sea School, one day is dedicated to course work in the classroom and one day is dedicated to training students in a variety of hands-on firefighting exercises and rescue simulations.
All crew members must complete Basic Firefighting to learn essential firefighting knowledge and skills. The Advanced Firefighting course is available for designated fire team leaders and those with specific firefighting responsibilities, and teaches advanced firefighting strategies, tactics, and incident management.
The four elements of STCW Basic Training are:
- Personal Safety & Social Responsibility (PSSR)
- Personal Survival Techniques (PST)
- CPR & First Aid (CPR/FA)
- Basic Firefighting (BFF)
No. Only the USCG can issue official documentation and certifications. To obtain an official Basic Firefighting certification, mariners must:
- Complete the necessary USCG application form.
- Submit both the Sea School Course Completion Certificate and USCG application form to the USCG.
The USCG then processes the application and issues the official Basic Firefighting certification.
Your Journey Begins Here – Get Certified & Get on the Water!
Helping thousands of mariners every year, Sea School is a leader in the maritime education space. Whether you are new to the industry or looking to add onto your Merchant Mariner Credential, find the courses right for you at Sea School.
