Most all fire departments want atleast a EMT-I certification while applying for Fireman these days. Im not sure but I dont think it used to be that way, but now it mostly is. Paramedic is a further degree up from EMT, but usually isnt required to become a fireman that I know of. I know some Fireman that are categorized EMT/Paramedic/Fireman and did cross training which gives them 2 paychecks on payday which would be awesome, but obviously requires more training and certificates.