What Does it Take to Be a Firefighter?

A firefighter is a first responder trained in fighting, extinguishing and rescuing from dangers caused by fire. The job also entails disaster response, public safety, and hazardous materials mitigation. Firefighters are known for heroic service and the sacrifice of their lives to protect life and property. Despite their hazardous conditions and long hours, they find fulfillment in making a difference in their communities.

Firefighters are required to meet basic eligibility requirements including corrected 20/20 eyesight, a high school diploma and a clean criminal record. Those who are not already firefighters must complete an approved firefighter training academy with a local, state or federal fire department. Some fire agencies offer internships or apprenticeship programs for candidates with an interest in becoming a firefighter. Those who choose to further their education and obtain advanced certifications or college degrees are able to increase their rank, earnings and responsibilities.

Before firefighters can start to fight a fire, they must perform reconnaissance of the area and identify the source. If the fire is in a building, this may be done through a search of the structure, or with the help of a thermal camera. The identification of the fire source is known as “reading” the fire and allows firefighters to know how the flames will spread.

During the fire-fighting process, firefighters use water streams mixed with appropriate extinguishing agents to suppress and extinguish the fire. Then, they may initiate salvage, which includes removing smoke from the interior and protecting undamaged materials. Firefighters must also be able to quickly and accurately assess the situation, determine what equipment is needed and then take control of the scene.

After a fire is out, firefighters must clean and maintain their equipment and prepare for the next call. This can include inspecting a burned building, testing fire alarms and ensuring all firefighters are up-to-date on emergency medical knowledge and skills. Some fire departments have special units which focus on hazardous materials incidents such as oil spills or chemical accidents. These firefighters work with hazardous materials removal workers to control and clean up the incidents.

When not responding to emergencies, firefighters spend their time at the fire station performing drills and preparing for training events. They are on-call 24 hours a day and typically work shifts of 12 or 24-hours. They may also be involved in community outreach providing public fire education or visiting schools to present about fire safety.

Those who are interested in becoming a firefighter should understand that the job is highly demanding and often dangerous, but can be extremely rewarding. They should have good physical fitness as they must be able to lift heavy equipment, run and walk distances in full gear, and operate firefighting machinery. They must also have excellent attention to detail and be able to think on their feet in fast-paced, noisy environments. It is not uncommon for firefighters to be exposed to hazardous materials, toxins and smoke. Those who are not interested in the risky lifestyle of this profession should consider another career.