What Does it Take to Become a Firefighter?

A firefighter, also known as a fireman (or firewoman) is a public servant who uses rigorous training to control and extinguish fires that threaten lives and property. These individuals are the first responders to emergencies in urban areas and aboard ships. Firefighters also provide emergency medical care to people at the scene of an incident. They work in teams and are on call for 24 hours at a time.

Firefighters use specialized equipment to enter and manage incident sites. Their responsibilities include keeping bystanders away from dangerous items, working with law enforcement to identify criminal activity and direct resources, and coordinating cleanup efforts at the site. They also inspect buildings and structures for safety, such as identifying damaged areas of walls, roofs or foundations. Firefighters may also use hand tools such as axes, sledge hammers or battering rams to break down doors, windows and walls.

When not on call or at an emergency, firefighters perform routine inspections of their equipment and stations. During this time, they eat and sleep and remain on call for their next shift. They also participate in drills and presentations to educate the community about fire safety.

The most common reason for firefighter deaths in 2023 was overexertion or other stress-related injuries. Other reasons included heart attacks and homicides.

To become a firefighter, one must undergo extensive training at a fire academy or other state-approved program. These programs are designed to teach firefighters about fire safety, how to handle their equipment and how to perform basic emergency medical care. The program also includes physical fitness tests to ensure that a candidate is physically capable of performing his or her duties.

After completing training, an individual must pass a certification exam. The exam typically consists of multiple-choice questions and is followed by a physical examination with tasks such as climbing stairs, dragging hoses and lifting heavy objects. During the test, an individual wears firefighting gear and is evaluated by a panel of firefighters.

Once a firefighter is certified, he or she must complete continuing education courses to maintain his or her certification. The amount of education required varies depending on the state and employer. Continuing education helps firefighters stay up to date on changes in the industry and improve their performance at the fire department.

Because of the demanding nature of their job, firefighters must be healthy and strong to perform well. They must be able to work under pressure and think quickly, especially in fast-paced situations. They must be able to work in teams and communicate clearly. These traits make firefighters a vital part of any team.