S-100 Fire Suppression Training

IRWIN'S Safety offers the S-100 Fire Suppression course, the minimum wildfire training required in British Columbia. Updated to align with the BC Wildfire Service's 2026 Training Standard (effective May 1, 2026), this foundational program equips participants with the knowledge and practical skills to safely and effectively respond to wildfires, whether in a wildfire management or industrial operations context.

Course Overview:

The S-100 Fire Suppression course is a 24-hour program comprising 12 hours of classroom instruction and 12 hours of practical field training. Participants must successfully complete both a written exam and a practical skills evaluation to receive certification.

Learning Objectives:

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

• Understand the dynamics of wildfire behavior and the environmental factors influencing fire spread.
• Apply fundamental wildfire suppression techniques and strategies.
• Operate essential firefighting tools, including hoses, pumps, and Class A foam.
• Implement safety protocols to protect themselves and their team during firefighting operations.
  

Course Content:

• Wildfire Behavior: Study the characteristics of wildfires and how elements such as wind, terrain, and vegetation affect fire progression.
• Suppression Tactics: Learn effective methods for controlling and extinguishing wildfires, including fireline construction and direct and indirect attack strategies.
• Fireline Organization: Understand the structure and roles within a firefighting team to ensure coordinated and efficient operations.
• Communication Skills: Develop effective communication techniques crucial for safety and coordination during firefighting efforts.
• Safety Measures: Identify potential hazards and implement measures to mitigate risks during firefighting activities.
• Practical Equipment Use: Engage in hands-on training with firefighting equipment, focusing on the operation of hoses, pumps, and the application of Class A foam.

Certification:

Participants who successfully complete the course will receive an S-100 certificate of completion. Certification is valid for 12 months from the date of issue and is accepted by WorkSafeBC as the required standard for wildfire firefighting in British Columbia.
Annual Renewal (S-100A): To maintain certification, participants must complete the S-100A annual recurrency course each year. If a renewal is missed, certification is void and the full S-100 course must be retaken. After five consecutive years of certification (including annual renewals), the full S-100 course must be completed again regardless of renewal history.
Irwin's Safety is reviewing the updated 2026 standard to ensure our S-100 and S-100A training remains fully aligned with BC Wildfire Service requirements. Employers are encouraged to review worker certification dates early and schedule renewals before expiry.