Becoming a Firefighter

Firefighters tackle fires; rescue people trapped or injured by fire, and prevent damage to property. They also assist with other types of rescue operations, emergencies, and disasters, such as road, rail, and air accidents, floods, and chemical spillages. Firefighters are also responsible for fire prevention work, such as inspecting buildings, safety education, and advising on fire precautions.

The Job:

Firefighters must be prepared and ready to respond immediately to a fire alarm call and handle any emergency that arises. The range of duties of firefighters varies depending on the size of the fire department, but each firefighter will have been assigned specific duties to avoid delay and confusion. At the scene of a fire or accident, a firefighter may be responsible for connecting hoses to hydrants, operating the pumps, positioning ladders, or breaking down doors. However, firefighters must be flexible and respond to the demands of any given situation, and so duties may change during an operation.

After a fire, firefighters may remain to make sure that the fire is completely out and, in certain cases; they may examine the causes of the fire and look for evidence of possible arson, especially if there has been an injury or death.

Good eyesight, often 20/20 vision, without the use of glasses or contact lenses, normal color vision, and good hearing are essential. Entrants must pass a strict medical that usually includes strength and lung-capacity tests. Physical performance tests, including running, climbing, and jumping, may also be required in some countries. Candidates must meet minimum and maximum height and weight requirements.

Entry age varies - occasionally there are opportunities for junior firefighters from 16, but the minimum age is usually at least 18, and sometimes 21.

While on standby, firefighters maintain their equipment and repair their own personal protective gear. They also keep physically fit and hold practice drills.

Most fire departments are also responsible for fire prevention. Firefighters inspect public buildings checking for combustible materials, poor electrical wiring, and adequate smoke and fire alarms. They check building plans, fire escapes, and fire doors and ensure that safety regulations are complied with. Fire safety education is also frequently part of their work.

Firefighters are on duty for long periods and stations usually have facilities for dining and sleeping. Shift work is usual and overtime may be compulsory.

When an alarm comes in, firefighters must respond rapidly regardless of adverse weather or the time of day or night. The work is physically demanding and the work environment is often hot, dirty, wet, and sometimes dark and cramped. Firefighters wear protective clothing, such as gloves, helmets, boots, and coats, and sometimes use breathing apparatus. Firefighting is dangerous and firefighters risk death and injury.

Training Involved:

A good general education and high marks in entrance examinations may be sufficient but firefighters may enter with relevant diplomas or degrees.

Most entrants follow initial courses lasting up to 16 weeks on firefighting techniques, prevention, safety precautions, hazardous materials, building codes, and medical procedures. They also learn how to use firefighting and rescue equipment.

Firefighters study and train throughout their career in new procedures and equipment, and in order to gain promotion.

Salary Expectations:

The base salary range of a Firefighter ranges from $25,027 to $70,787 annually, while the median salary for most Firefighters is $47,500 annually. (US Base Pay)

Future Prospects:

The outlook for job opportunities is relatively good with more jobs being created as communities grow and the number of hours worked by each firefighter is reduced.

Turnover of firefighter jobs is very low although many opt for early retirement.

Firefighting is an occupation usually open to both men and women.

Even though written examinations and physical requirements eliminate many applicants, competition for jobs is keen.

Opportunities for promotion are often good, with defined promotion structures.

Most firefighters work for national, federal, state, local, or municipal fire departments.

Some work in the armed services, at airports, and in industrial plants.

For further information, contact a relevant professional body, such as an association of fire chiefs, firefighters, or fire protection, or the local fire services.