WEBVTT

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Courage, strength, and a cool head

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under pressure

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are some of the most important qualities

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needed by firefighters.

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Firefighters control and put out fires,

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and respond to crisis situations

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where life and the environment are at risk.

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Firefighters enter burning buildings

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to extinguish fires and rescue people,

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sometimes carrying them.

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They connect hoses to hydrants,

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operate pumps, climb ladders,

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and use other tools

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to break through debris.

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The majority of calls they receive

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are for medical emergencies,

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so many firefighters

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also provide medical attention.

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Some firefighters clean up

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hazardous materials, such as oil spills

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and chemical accidents,

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while others are specially trained

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to control forest fires.

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Most firefighters work for local governments.

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Some work for federal and state governments,

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or at airports, chemical plants,

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and other industrial sites.

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Volunteer firefighters serve the same roles

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as paid firefighters

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and account for a large portion

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of the workforce in this field.

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Firefighters’ schedules are typically on duty

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at the fire station for 24 hours at a time,

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then off for 48 to 72 hours.

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Wildland firefighters

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may work for extended periods

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to get a forest fire under control.

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Firefighters have one of the highest rates

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of injuries and illnesses of all occupations.

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They must wear heavy, hot protective gear.

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Firefighters typically need

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a high school diploma, valid driver’s license,

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and an emergency medical

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technician certification.

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Candidates must successfully complete

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interviews, written and physical fitness tests,

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fire academy training, and, once hired,

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they must pass random drug tests.