Why do People Want To Become Firefighters?

Firefighters are one of the hardest working people in the world. Expectedly, their job is one of the toughest and hazardous there is. Unlike most professions where you have an eight to five shift, firefighters need to be on the edge of their seats 24 hours a day seven days a week.

However, curiously, thousands of individuals still line up every year to get a chance to feel what it’s like jumping into blazing areas with only their guts and training as their weapon. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics even believes that there will be as much as a 5% increase in firefighter applicants in the coming years.

An even bigger wonder would be the fact that according to the National Fire Protection Association Protection, at least 69% percent of our brave brethren in the US are volunteers.

Hence, I bet you are asking “If they hardly get paid any money, why in the world would anyone want to risk their lives every single day?” So to answer your question, we’ve gathered some of the most common reasons we believe why people still want to become firefighters.

Common Reasons Why People Want To Become Firefighters

Help and Serve Their Communities

The most common, also noble reason why many people apply to become a part of their fire department is their sense of servitude and responsibility to their community. Just like police officers who see themselves as keepers of the peace, or doctors who believe that it is their duty to save lives, firefighters often consider themselves as the only thing standing between blazing flames and their beloved neighbors.

Furthermore, it is common for people who live in fire hazard areas like California to always be on alert of wild fires or urban fires. Hence, they find it upon themselves to fill in any lack of workforce their fire departments have. (2)

Carry On Family Legacy

Ever since time in memorial, having a firefighter in a family is something to be proud. It has always been something worth boasting about and with a valid reason of course. Hence, many families make it a tradition always to have someone in the present generation to take the helm of being a firefighter.

Although it was then seen as something a father passes to a son, more and more daughters are now given a chance to become a firefighter. Thus, it is no longer uncommon to hear women saying they became firefighters as part of their family legacy. Nevertheless, although they only entered due to family pressure, most of them eventually fall in love with the job.

Personal Experiences

Ever heard a police officer say they became one because they were inspired by a police officer they saw once or a lawyer who took the bar exams because he once experienced injustice in their lives? The same thing has happened to many firefighters.

It could be because a person once saved them or someone they love, or they saw a firefighter on duty risking his or her life to save another’s. Whatever the reason is, the emotions they feel in those few moments can lead a person to pursue a passion their whole lives.

Thirst For Action And Adrenaline Rush

If you think jumping off a bridge or parachuting can give someone an adrenalin rush like no other, then I bet you’ve never tried being a firefighter. Risk takers around the world love looking for situations that could make them feel excited and have a sense of rush, and no other occupation can do that as much as being a firefighter.

Adrenaline junkies are perfect for the job since being a firefighter requires unbelievable amounts of courage. What attracts them to the job isn’t just the rush that they get; but also the idea that they can be contributing members of the society.

Sense Of Family Among Fire Fighters

Being a part of a fire department is like being a part of a large family. The risk involved in their job requires firefighters to have each other’s back all the time. This responsibility creates a bond between two persons as if they are brothers and sisters.

Lastly, going through so many challenges together can create a sense of family among them. This may not be the reason why many fire fighters apply for the job, but it is definitely one main reason why they stay.

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How To Become A Firefighter

No other profession in the world is as risky as being a firefighter. Thus, one can’t help but wonder why thousands of applicants are still falling in line just to have a chance to be one of these modern day heroes. Who better to answer that question than a firefighter himself?

[Other than the adrenaline rush] There is another far more powerful feeling that comes from firefighting, and that is the overwhelming feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment that comes from saving someone’s life.

–George Kellerman, former firefighter, partner and fire chief at 500 Startups

In 2014, a whopping 1,134,000 individuals placed their lives on the line every day as firefighting men and women. There are so many applicants for firefighting that in 2015 alone, California’s Salinas fire department received and estimated 1000 applications from individuals from every walk of life.

Furthermore, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the number of firefighters would steadily grow at a rate of 5% annually for the next ten years. The Bureau also predicts that competition for the job would be incredibly high due to the number of applications.

If this million of people can’t convince you enough that working as a firefighter is worth it, then nothing will. But if you are now headstrong in pursuing a career as a firefighter, then take out a pen and pencil as we are going to talk about the steps necessary to become a fire fighter.

Steps To Become A Firefighter

STEP 1: Volunteer For The Service

Most fire departments accept volunteer firefighters on a regular basis. What is even better is most of them do so without requiring much background checks or formal educations. However, volunteers would still be of course necessary to undergo the training provided by the fire departments themselves.

You may ask; why in the world would people want to work for something incredibly dangerous for a tiny or no pay at all? Well, there are two common answers to that question. The first one is that people who volunteer in fire departments often find it easier to get formally hired if ever they decide to do so. The second one would be of course related to the satisfaction people feel when they help other people.

STEP 2: Get A High School Diploma

If you decide to become an official firefighter and not just a volunteer, make sure that you were able to obtain at least a high school diploma. Some fire departments, however, may also prefer applicants who graduated with a fire related bachelor’s degree. Nevertheless, they are the only exception to what most fire departments want.

How Are Fire Fighters Trained?

Firefighters: Our Real Life Superheroes 

Have you ever wished that you magically wake up one day bestowed with super powers to save lives and be a hero? The feeling of saving someone from something that could have otherwise ended their life and everyone applauding you for your heroic actions, isn’t that just the dream?

Well, there’s a very slim chance of that ever happening, the super power part that is. But would you believe that every day someone out there is doing the saving you wish you could do? The people I am talking about are our noble and beloved firefighters.

When a man becomes a fireman his greatest act of bravery has been accomplished.  What he does after that is all in the line of work.

-Edward F. Croker

Firefighters are brave and brazen enough to jump into any dangerous situation for the sake of saving others. No matter the danger, they never think twice about risking their lives for others. This is what makes them one of the most respected individuals not just in the United States, but in the whole world.

This makes us wonder, how in the world did these men and women gain this much bravery? What training could they have gone through to be able to face death in the face every single day? Finally, the answer is here.

What Are Firefighters?

Firefighters are one of our first line of defenses when it comes to any emergencies. Whether it is fire related or not, you can depend on them to get you out of your sticky situation. Whether it be car crashes, rescue missions, floods, practically anything that results in someone or something in need of saving, you can rest assure a firefighter can do the job.

What Are The Requirements To Become a Firefighter?

Before an applicant to become a firefighter can even start training he or she already undergo scrutiny. This assures that only the best of the best can be allowed to go through the next stage of becoming a firefighter, which is the actual training.

Here are some of the most important requirements before one can become a fully pledged firefighter:

1. Pass a Physical Exam– Also known as the Candidate Physical Ability Test; applicants are required to pass an examination which determines if they are physically capable of handling the strenuous job of a firefighter.This exam was made to help fire departments obtain groups of trainable applicants who are physically able to carry out necessary job tasks at fire scenes. The primary focus of the physical ability test is agility, upper body strength, and endurance. (1)
2. Get a Degree in Fire Science– This isn’t necessarily a requirement to become a Firefighter. However, if you intend to advance in your career as a Firefighter, this would definitely make it easier for you.
3. Pass Examinations– Fire fighting departments typically require applicants to pass certain exams to make sure that they have enough knowledge to perform their jobs correctly. The tests often include written, physical and psychological exams.
4. Technical Requirements– there are some requirements that applicants only need to prove such as having a 20/20 vision, high school diploma, a clean criminal record, and lastly be at least 18 years old (21 in some states). Some states have a maximum age limit so make sure to check that out in your locality.

Firefighter Training

Let no man’s ghost return to say his training let him down.

-Firefighters Saying

The actual training is more difficult than any of those tests that the applicants were made to do. It requires the highest level of discipline and hard work. Many candidates drop out from training before they can even finish due to rigorous exercises they are made to do.

Here are some subjects that are taught to firefighter applicants in the United States:

1. Fire Prevention– the phrase “prevention is better than the cure” is as true as it can get when it comes to fires. It is important for firefighters to know about fire prevention so as they can communicate to their individual communities the best practices in preventing fires.
2. Fire suppression techniques– as their name signifies, the job of a firefighter is to “fight” fire. They must be fully knowledgeable in important details such as how to put off different types of fire, and what material extinguishes each type of fire.
3. Hazardous materials control– as was said above, the job of firefighters are now just limited to burning buildings and properties, they may be called upon to help clean up spills of materials hazardous to people.
4. CPR– Cardiopulmonary resuscitation is necessary for situations where fire victims have inhaled high amounts of smoke.
5. Chain-of-command protocols– it is important for a firefighter to know the organizational structure of their department so as that they can work more efficiently and effectively as a group.
6. Simulation Exercises– Possibly the hardest one of them all, simulation exercises places firefighter trainees in mock-up versions of possible events that they may encounter, and yes that includes entering burning structures.

Watch this video on how Burbank Fire Department trains its recruits:

It is indeed hard to become a firefighter, but actually working as one is equally if not more challenging. Hence, before you think about entering a fire department ask yourself if you are willing and able to go through all this process.

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Firefighter Careers in the US

They [Firefighters] are good stewards — serving their neighbors, their communities, our nation with courage, and fortitude and strength.  We can never repay them fully for their sacrifices.

–Obama on the sacrifices of Firefighters

Firefighters are one of the most dangerous jobs in the world. They risk their lives every single day in order to save those in need. One may think that their job is only limited to “fire fighting”, however, Firefighters contribute to the society in more ways than one.

Different Paths Available for a Firefighter

 

Firefighters are one of the most dangerous jobs in the world. They risk their lives every single day in order to save those in need. One may think that their job is limited to “fire fighting” only, however, Firefighters contribute to the society in more ways than one.

 

The job description of Firefighters actually encompasses any crisis that may be faced by the general public. Whether it be car crashes, rescue missions, floods, chemical spills, practically anything that results in someone or something in need of saving, you can rest assure a Firefighter can do the job. (1)

Some say the job pays well. However, It’s rare that the re

ason why Firefighters stay on their jobs. Most Firefighters remain because of the satisfaction they get knowing that they were able to help someone in need. If you plan on trying out the path towards becoming a Firefighter, then this article is perfect for you.

What are the Requirements to Become a Firefighter?

Being a firefighter is no easy job; hence many certifications and training are required before one can take on the job. These requirements are not just necessary to assure that they know what they’re doing, but also to protect the Firefighter from their work hazards. (2)

Here are some of the most important requirements before one can become a fully pledged firefighter:

1. Pass a Physical Exam– Being a Firefighter is an incredibly strenuous work. It requires you to exert so much effort in a very long span of time. Before becoming a Firefighter, you must maintain physical and mental fitness. Saving people’s lives needs that you don’t end up a victim yourself once the rescue mission commences.
2. Get a Degree in Fire Science– This isn’t necessarily a requirement to become a Firefighter. However, if you intend to advance in your career as a Firefighter, this would definitely make it easier for you.
3. Pass Examinations– Firefighting departments typically require applicants to pass a certain exam to make sure that they have enough knowledge to perform their jobs correctly. The exams often include written, physical and psychological exams.
4. Technical Requirements– there are some requirements that applicants only need to prove such as having a 20/20 vision, high school diploma, a clean criminal record, and lastly be at least 18 years old (21 in some states). Some states have a maximum age limit so make sure to check that out in your locality.

Most of the certifications are only necessary if you wish to advance in your profession. Anyone could become a firefighter as long as they are willing, and have the physical and mental capacity to do so.

What Careers are Available as a Firefighter

Just like any job or occupation, Firefighters can be categorized into various types. They also have a hierarchy that helps them understand the chain of command in the organization. As a Firefighter, you will have the opportunity to advance as long as you show your dedication in saving lives. (3)

Here are some common types of Firefighters both in the field and in the offices:

1. Firefighter- firefighters are the ones sent by the fire department to handle issues and crises that occur in the urban and residential areas. They handle situations such as rescue missions, home or vehicle fires, accidents, and much They are one of the busiest firefighters due to the span of their responsibility. The median salary for this job in the US is around $47,000.
2. Forestry Fire Prevention Specialists– this type of firefighter takes the fight into the jungle, literally. They specialize in preventing and putting off forest fires both caused by humans or nature. The median annual salary for this type of job in the US is around $37,000.
3. Building Inspectors- they work under the fire department. However, this position does not include fighting fires. Instead, it is their job to make sure that buildings conform to the local fire regulations. To simply put it, it is their job to prevent fires from happening in the first place. The average salary for this occupation is around $57,000 annually.
4. Arson Investigator– arson is the act of burning someone else’s property with malicious Arson investigators work in close cooperation with the police force in determining the root cause of arson fires and who is responsible for the crime. They are often paid around $57,000 annually.
5. Paramedics- most firefighters are required to learn how to handle injuries the injuries of the victims. If they wish to focus on this type of responsibility, a firefighter can be promoted into a paramedic. Paramedics respond to emergencies to treat injured individuals and save their lives. They are paid a median salary of around $32,000.

Being a firefighter is a full-time job. There are few occupations out there that can contend on how hard it is to become a firefighter. Nevertheless, the thought of saving the lives of others is more than enough to remove the stress felt by firefighters every day.

Volunteering as a firefighter is one of the noblest things a citizen could do for the country and his fellowmen.

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Local impact unclear amid firefighter certification controversy – The Daily Nonpareil

The Daily Nonpareil

Local impact unclear amid firefighter certification controversy The Daily Nonpareil More than 1,700 firefighters and emergency responders in Iowa were improperly issued credentials during a four-year span, according to findings that led to criminal charges against the former State Fire Marshal Division’s Fire Services Training Bureau … Northwest Iowa fire chiefs react to state firefighter testing scandalSioux City Journal Complaint: Man ‘assigned random scores’ to tamper firefighter testsDesMoinesRegister.com Man charged for improper firefighter test scoresFairfield Ledger Firehouse.com (press release) (registration) (blog) –KSCJ all 8 news articles »

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Northwest Iowa fire chiefs react to state firefighter testing scandal – Sioux City Journal

Sioux City Journal

Northwest Iowa fire chiefs react to state firefighter testing scandal Sioux City Journal Authorities revealed this week that more than 1,700 Iowa firefighters and emergency responders were granted state certifications from Iowa’s fire academy between 2012 and 2016, despite failing exams. That number was about one-fourth of the … Complaint: Man ‘assigned random scores’ to tamper firefighter testsDesMoinesRegister.com Man charged for improper firefighter test scoresFairfield Ledger Investigation: 1700 IA Firefighters Issued Improper CertificationsFirehouse.com (press release) (registration) (blog) KSCJ all 7 news articles »

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Founder of Bojangles’, grandfather of fallen firefighter dies – | WBTV … – WBTV

WBTV	Founder of Bojangles’, grandfather of fallen firefighter dies – | WBTV … WBTV Richard B. Thomas passed away after a short illness Wednesday morning in Atlanta. and more »

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Hamilton firefighter indicted on charges of theft, forgery – WCPO

WCPO

Hamilton firefighter indicted on charges of theft, forgery WCPO HAMILTON, Ohio — A Butler County grand jury indicted a Hamilton firefighter on charges of forgery and theft Thursday. Anthony Houston was charged with four felony counts of forgery and one felony count of theft, according to Hamilton police. Police … Hamilton firefighter indicted on felony forgery, theft chargesWDTN all 2 news articles »

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Arraignment set for former Naperville firefighter from Elgin – Chicago Tribune

Chicago Tribune

Arraignment set for former Naperville firefighter from Elgin Chicago Tribune An Elgin man’s two-decade career as a Naperville firefighter ended in December, nearly two months after his arrest on child pornography charges, according a city spokesman. Louis Digrazia IV, 47, "separated from employment" with the city Dec. 9 … and more »

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Danielson: Firefighter testing scandal could have big impact – Waterloo Cedar Falls Courier

Waterloo Cedar Falls Courier

Danielson: Firefighter testing scandal could have big impact Waterloo Cedar Falls Courier Hundreds of firefighters will be forced to retake certification tests that many were told they had passed long ago while others will suffer from questions about their qualifications, firefighters said. Some volunteers may decide to quit rather than … Hundreds of Iowa firefighters receive inaccurate certificationsKWQC-TV6 all 10 news articles »

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