Advanced Fire Fighting (AFF) Course: Complete Guide for Seafarers – DG Shipping Approved Training

The Advanced Fire Fighting (AFF) Course is one of the most critical safety programs required for seafarers working on board merchant ships. Whether you are progressing from an entry-level position or upgrading your COC/CDC for higher responsibilities, AFF is mandatory under STCW Section A-VI/3 and DG Shipping guidelines in India.

This blog provides a complete breakdown of the AFF course, including eligibility, syllabus, training methods, certification, career benefits, and how to choose the right institute. High-intent keywords such as AFF course near me, Advanced Fire Fighting training DG Shipping approved, AFF course fees, AFF course Mumbai have been strategically included for SEO performance.

What Is the Advanced Fire Fighting (AFF) Course?

The AFF course is designed to prepare seafarers to take command in fire emergency situations, lead firefighting teams, manage advanced equipment, and follow international protocols for shipboard fire safety.

Unlike the Basic Fire Prevention & Firefighting (FPFF) course, AFF is focused on leadership, decision-making, and advanced techniques rather than only basic fire response.

Who Should Take the AFF Course?

The AFF course is mandatory for:

• Deck cadets upgrading to officers

• Marine engineers advancing in rank

• Ratings (GP Rating, OS, Wiper) moving towards Watchkeeping

• Officers renewing their STCW certificates

• Any seafarer who wants to assume fire team leadership roles onboard

Candidates searching for AFF course near me or “AFF DG Shipping approved institute” usually fall into mid-career seafarers preparing for promotions.

Why AFF Training Is Mandatory Under STCW

The revised STCW 2010 Convention makes AFF compulsory because fire remains one of the top five causes of maritime accidents. Most onboard fire incidents escalate due to:

• incorrect fire classification

• delayed response

• lack of leadership during emergencies

• unfamiliarity with advanced firefighting systems

The AFF course ensures the seafarer is capable of managing the entire operation, not just participating in it.

Eligibility for the AFF Course

To enroll in an AFF course in India, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Must have completed FPFF (Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting)

• Must hold an Indian CDC or approved documentation

• Must be medically fit as per DGS medical standards

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AFF Course Duration and Training Format

The typical AFF course duration in India is 4–5 days, depending on institute schedules. The training includes:

• Classroom theory sessions

• Practical firefighting drills

• Simulation of onboard fire control

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 What You Learn in the AFF Course – Complete Syllabus Overview

 1. Shipboard Fire Investigation

• Identifying fire origin and cause

• Conducting post-fire assessments

• Understanding fire behavior in enclosed spacess

2. Leadership & Fire Team Management

• Team communication

• Decision-making under pressure

• Assigning and supervising roles

3. Advanced Firefighting Techniques

• Use of foam monitors, CO2 systems, water mist

• Boundary cooling and smoke control

• Ventilation methods

4. Use of Breathing Apparatus (BA) for Extended Operations

• BA set checking

• Entry procedures

• Search and rescue operations

5. Handling High-Risk Fire Scenarios

• Engine room fires

• Electrical room fires

• Cargo fires on tankers and container vessels

• Galley fires

Benefits of Completing the AFF Course

1. Mandatory for Promotion

You cannot progress to officer level or take charge of a fire team without AFF certification.

2. Stronger Professional Profile

Companies prefer seafarers with complete and updated STCW courses.

3. Improved Onboard Confidence

Handling risky fire situations becomes easier with proper training.

4. Higher Employability

Many shipping companies now require AFF certificate before joining.

AFF Certificate Validity

Under STCW 2010, your AFF certificate is generally valid for 5 years. To renew it, seafarers must take the AFF Refresher Course (AFFR).

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How to Choose the Best AFF Course Institute in India

Choosing a DG Shipping–approved maritime institute is crucial. Here’s what seafarers must evaluate:

• DG Shipping approval number

• Experienced instructors

• Availability of full firefighting ground

• Modern equipment and BA sets

• Consistent, frequent AFF batches

• Positive Google reviews

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• AFF training institute near me

• Best AFF course in India

• DG Shipping approved AFF centers

Why Choose Anvay Maritime Institute for AFF Training?

Anvay Maritime Institute offers fully DG Shipping–approved Advanced Fire Fighting (AFF) training with:

• Realistic fire simulation

• Modern firefighting equipment

• Experienced marine faculty

• Comfortable learning environment

• Quick certificates for joining ship

The institute is frequently searched using:

• AFF course near me Mumbai

• AFF DG Shipping approved in Maharashtra

• Advanced Fire Fighting course Pune region

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Course Fees: AFF Training

AFF course fees typically range between ₹3,000 – ₹9,000 depending on the institute and city.

How to Enroll in the AFF Course?

You can book your batch by sharing the following documents:

• INDOS

• CDC

• Passport

• Passport-size photos

• Medical fitness certificate

Conclusion

The Advanced Fire Fighting (AFF) Course is an essential milestone for every seafarer aiming for higher ranks and onboard leadership roles. The combination of theoretical fire science, practical drills, and emergency leadership ensures that you are fully prepared to manage complex fire emergencies at sea.

By choosing a trusted DG Shipping–approved AFF training institute, you ensure safe sailing, career growth, and compliance with global STCW regulations.