Firefighter applicants must be at least 18 years of age and are required to complete Firefighter I training at the Bergen County Law & Public Safety Institute located in Mahwah, New Jersey. This six-month long training course was designed around the NFPA Standard 1001 and the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety Standard. Class is held twice per week, allowing students to acquire sufficient skills and knowledge that will enable him/her to function as an effective fire ground participant under the direct supervision of departmental officers. The course includes lectures, videos and slide/tape presentations in addition to practical exercises. Students must maintain a minimum score of 70% on both the written midterm and final exams as well as successful completion of a practical evaluation. Applicants are also required to pass a criminal background check and medical examination.