Firefighters

This group performs some or all of the following duties:

• Respond to fire alarms and other calls for assistance, such as automobile and industrial accidents, bomb threats and other emergencies

• Rescue victims from burning buildings and accident sites

• Control and extinguish fires using manual and power equipment, such as axes, water hoses, aerial ladders and hydraulic equipment and various firefighting chemicals

• Administer first aid and other assistance

• Ensure proper operation and maintenance of firefighting equipment

• Prepare written reports on fire incidents

• Inform and educate the public on fire prevention

• Train to maintain high level of physical fitness

• Assist the public, the police and emergency organizations during times of major disasters

• May participate as members of a trauma or emergency response team and provide paramedical aid to accident victims or ill persons

• May supervise and coordinate the work of other firefighters

• May conduct building inspections to ensure compliance with fire code.

• Completion of secondary school is usually required.

• Completion of a college program in fire protection technology, fire science or a related field and a period of supervised practical training is usually required.

• Firefighting and emergency medical care training courses are provided and vary in length depending on the requirements of different fire departments or services.

• Progression to senior positions such as fire chief is possible with additional training and several years of experience.