Courage, strength, and a cool head
under pressure
are some of the most important qualities
needed by firefighters.
Firefighters control and put out fires,
and respond to crisis situations
where life and the environment are at risk.
Firefighters enter burning buildings
to extinguish fires and rescue people,
sometimes carrying them.
They connect hoses to hydrants,
operate pumps, climb ladders,
and use other tools
to break through debris.
The majority of calls they receive
are for medical emergencies,
so many firefighters
also provide medical attention.
Some firefighters clean up
hazardous materials, such as oil spills
and chemical accidents,
while others are specially trained
to control forest fires.
Most firefighters work for local governments.
Some work for federal and state governments,
or at airports, chemical plants,
and other industrial sites.
Volunteer firefighters serve the same roles
as paid firefighters
and account for a large portion
of the workforce in this field.
Firefighters’ schedules are typically on duty
at the fire station for 24 hours at a time,
then off for 48 to 72 hours.
Wildland firefighters
may work for extended periods
to get a forest fire under control.
Firefighters have one of the highest rates
of injuries and illnesses of all occupations.
They must wear heavy, hot protective gear.
Firefighters typically need
a high school diploma, valid driver’s license,
and an emergency medical
technician certification.
Candidates must successfully complete
interviews, written and physical fitness tests,
fire academy training, and, once hired,
they must pass random drug tests.