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Firefighter
Firefighters extinguish fires, which can be a very difficult task. Fighting fires is very hazardous and complicated so working effectively in groups and being properly organized is essential.
Firefighters also rescue people stuck in buildings engulfed in flames.
They also attend to people injured in fires or other accidents. In most cases, they respond to medical emergencies.
When not responding to emergencies, firefighters are responsible for maintaining and cleaning their equipment. They also practice firefighting techniques and inspect buildings for fire hazards. Firefighters must exercise to stay in shape.
Certain firefighters are employed at factories or airports while some specialize in forest fires. Those focusing exclusively on forest fires are known as smoke jumpers. During forest fires, they parachute into hard to reach regions.
Fire inspectors and marshals specialize in fire prevention. They inspect buildings for fire hazards, and they ensure fire safety laws are not breached. They frequently collaborate with city planners and contractors. Fire inspectors also meet with school children to discuss fire safety.
Fire investigators inspect burned out buildings to determine how a fire started. They examine evidence from the site and interview witnesses.
Firefighters reside at fire stations a majority of the week. Fire stations usually contain living rooms, sleeping quarters, and kitchens. Once they are notified of an emergency, they respond immediately.
How do you prepare for this career?
In most cases, firefighters are required to take a written examination that measures agility, coordination, and strength. Firefighters must be in good physical condition.
Those enrolling in fire science courses at community colleges improve their job prospects. Today, more firefighters are required to attend college before beginning their careers.
Newly hired firefighters often receive special training. They are taught how to prevent fires, extinguish fires, and use ladders, fire extinguishers, axes, and other firefighting equipment. New firefighters learn about community building codes, emergency medical protocols, and emergency first aid. Once they are finished with training, firefighters are given an assignment at a firehouse.
Get Free Information from the best accredited Fire Science programs online
- American Military University
- American Public University
- Anna Maria College
How much will I earn?
During 2008, salaries for firefighters in the 50th percentile were between $29,550-54,120 each year. Those with salaries in the lower 10th percentile made $20,660 or less while those in the upper 10th percentile made $66,140 or more each year.
How many jobs are there?
During 2008, nearly 293,000 firefighters receiving salaries were employed in the United States. However, this figure does not reflect those working as volunteer firefighters. In some communities, volunteer firefighters outnumber those being paid.
During the same period nearly 52,000 supervisors and firefighter managers were employed in the United States. Nearly 14,000 people worked as fire inspectors.
What is the future outlook for this career?
Job growth for firefighters is projected to increase near the same average rate for growth in other industries until 2016. A majority of these new jobs will result from volunteer firefighters receiving paid positions. Because of increasing population growth, more firefighters will need to respond to emergencies.
However, many people will be competing for these positions. Many people seek careers in firefighting since it is a way to assist those in need and a challenging job.
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