How to Become a Firefighter

A firefighter is an emergency worker who responds to calls for help in a variety of situations, including fires, car accidents, medical emergencies and hazardous materials incidents. They also work to prevent fires and other emergencies by conducting surveys and inspections of buildings, enforcing codes and providing educational and training programs. They must be able to operate various types of firefighting equipment, such as ladder trucks, pumper trucks, and fire hoses.

Firefighters also rescue trapped people from a wide range of emergency situations, such as cave-ins, building collapses, chemical spills and flood channels. They use specialized tools to free them, and they may need to carry heavy or bulky people or equipment. They also clean and scrub living quarters, fire stations and their equipment in order to avoid illness or injury from contact with hazardous or infectious substances.

To become a firefighter, you must first be at least 18 years old and complete basic education. Many firefighters also go through a rigorous training program that includes physical tests, written exams and oral interviews. Then you must pass a psychological exam and a medical examination. Once you have completed the testing process and medical requirements, you will be placed on a list that will determine your hiring status. If you are fortunate enough to be at the top of this list, you will be offered a position.

Because they have a high risk of injury, firefighters must wear special equipment that includes self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), flame-retardant uniforms and protective eyewear. They also face other hazards, such as explosions, unstable structures and floors, falling objects, confined spaces, crowds of people and violent situations. In addition, they must be able to operate equipment and communicate with their peers over long distances, often using portable two-way radios.

While firefighting is dangerous and unpredictable, it’s also meaningful work that offers a great deal of job security. Once you’ve established yourself as a competent firefighter, you can advance to positions like engineer, lieutenant, captain, battalion chief and even the top job of fire chief. You can also earn advanced certifications and college degrees, which will boost your rank and earnings.

To attract the best candidates, you must offer a competitive salary and benefits package. Also, be sure to discuss working conditions and requirements in your firefighter job description. For example, some departments require their employees to work 24-hour shifts, while others may have a more traditional schedule that includes 8 or 12 hour shifts. You might want to mention this in your job description so applicants are aware of the realities of the role before they apply.