Firefighter Career

Young kids often tell their parents how much they would love to become firefighters when they grow up. These brave men and women who help put out the fire and save lives are perceived as heroes in the eyes of kids, and rightly so. If you want to make your childhood dream come true by becoming a firefighter, this article provides some valuable insight into the firefighter career.

What is a Firefighter?

A firefighter is someone who protects people and animals from the dangers of fire as well as other dangerous situations. Their job extends beyond putting out the fire, since they also respond to traffic accidents and medical emergencies. It is considered one of the most personally rewarding careers because it can save countless lives. This profession is all about being able to help others.

Firefighter Job Duties

The duties of a firefighter depend on his or her designation in the team. A hose operator’s job is to connect hoses to the fire hydrants; a tiller’s job is to guide a fire truck ladder; a pump operator inspects the hose to ensure that water gets through. Generally, a firefighter responds to emergency calls for assistance, rescues trapped people and animals, makes sure their teammates are safe during an emergency situation, and checks the site after the incident has been taken care of.

Firefighter Skills

Individuals who are planning to start a firefighter career should possess the necessary skills and qualities that will make them perform well in this job. Among them are leadership skills, mental alertness, endurance, self-discipline, decision-making skills, and initiative. A firefighter should also be physically strong and fit. Other skills such as oral and written communication skills, budgeting, and management would also be advantageous.

Firefighter Education

Many of today’s firefighters hold a high school diploma. However, an applicant with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree may have a higher chance of being accepted. This is particularly true if an applicant has coursework on fire engineering and fire science, but these aren’t really prerequisites to getting hired. Applicants will be required to take and pass a written exam and thereafter, proper firefighter training will take place.

Firefighter Salary

Based on the data gathered in May 2008, the median annual salary for this occupation is $44,260. Entry-level and those in the lowest 10% bracket earn less than $22.440, but those in the highest 10% earn above $72,210. Senior-level positions such as those of supervisors and managers are paid approximately $67,440 but take note that salary varies from state to state.

Firefighter Job Outlook

Growth in terms of employment opportunities for a firefighter career is seen at 19% from 2008-2018. This is due to several reasons including the increase in the number of people living in the city. With a denser population, the number of emergency situations will also rise. As of 2008, firefighters held a total of 365,600 jobs and this would grow significantly in the next few years.

Although growth is forecasted at 19%, it is still important for individuals to know that competition is quite stiff for a firefighter job. This is because it is a very challenging career and applicants do not need a college degree to apply. However, by showing good performance and pursuing firefighter education and certifications, you can have an advantage over other aspiring firefighters.