7 knots you need to learn to achieve Firefighter 1 certification

Video tutorials are a great way to learn how to tie knots to meet NFPA 1001 requirements

November 16, 2024 07:28 PM •

The ability to utilize ropes and knots is considered a fundamental skill for Firefighter 1. As part of NFPA 1001: Standard for Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications, firefighters must demonstrate proficiency in tying essential knots commonly used in fireground operations. These knots typically include overhand safety, figure of eight on a bight, bowline, becket/sheet bend, clove hitch, half hitch and water knot.

Watch the full video above to learn how to tie all seven knots, or jump into a specific knot tutorial below.

1. How to tie an overhand safety knot

2. How to for a figure eight on a bight

3. How to tie a bowline knot

4. How to form a becket bend

5. How to tie a clove hitch knot

6. How to tie a half hitch knot

7. How to tie a water knot

Learn more about NFPA codes and standards here.

This article, originally published in 2017, has been updated.

Vincent Bettinazzi

Vince Bettinazzi joined the Myrtle Beach (S.C.) Fire Department in 2007. He currently holds the rank of battalion chief and is assigned as a shift commander on C-Shift. Bettinazzi is a member of the department’s Ocean Rescue Team as a certified USLA lifeguard. He completed the NFA’s Managing Officer Program in 2016, and recently obtained his Chief Fire Officer Designation from CPSE. Bettinazzi is a co-host on the “Beyond the Stretch” podcast.