A Day in the Life of a Firefighter
Whether you are looking for a career in the fire service or are just curious about the day-to-day life of a firefighter, here are some things you should know.
Fire Callouts
Almost any firefighter will tell you that a day in the life of a firefighter is hectic. Like the experienced firefighter, Daniel Ahasic, he works 24-hour shifts and has many duties. These include responding to fires, medical calls, explosions, automobile accidents, and other emergencies. During their shift, firefighters work on various projects, inspect businesses, and speak to groups about fire safety. They may also spend time on pre-emergency planning and physical fitness training.
Firefighters work in companies that a company officer leads. The officer is usually a captain or lieutenant. They plan the schedule of the day and facilitate crew meetings.
Each firefighter’s day usually begins with a changeover. This is when the new shift leader will explain what the new day will be like. The person will also pass on important information about the rig.
Public Relations
Whether an experienced firefighter or a newcomer, you should know that public relations are a crucial part of firefighting. Your actions can majorly impact your department’s budget and image.
Public education is an excellent way to reach out to the public. This can be as simple as handing out a firefighter’s T-shirt or a plastic fire helmet. It may also involve an interview with a local newspaper or attending a fire safety seminar at a local business.
In addition to teaching fire safety to children, firefighters are also responsible for maintaining equipment and responding to medical emergencies. This can include administering oxygen to animals in the fireground.
Education
Whether you’re a firefighter or aspiring to become one, there are various ways to gain the knowledge you need. Many firefighters start with on-the-job training, and others complete a formal education program. However, no matter how you decide to pursue your education, you’ll need to meet certain legal and physical requirements.
For entry-level positions, you’ll need to pass a written test, a physical fitness test, and a drug screening. Then you’ll be interviewed. Successful applicants will also undergo further testing, which includes a medical exam.
Those who seek higher-level positions will need to earn a bachelor’s degree. In addition, some colleges offer electives related to fire service management. A master’s degree is also available, though it typically requires two years of study.
Upskill Training
Continuing to learn the ropes is important in the fire service arena. Upskill training for new and tenured firefighters can help save lives and property. It is also a great way to improve your well-being. This is a particularly important consideration in light of the fire service’s shaky reputation and recent calamities. Fortunately, the likes of modern-day heroes have many high-caliber mentors to turn to for advice and assistance. The right upskill training is the only way to ensure a long and prosperous career.
Working Out
Fitness is important whether you are a recruit or a firefighter looking to improve your performance. Firefighters work long shifts and are expected to have good health.
The best workouts for firefighters involve high-intensity and short recovery periods. These exercises will increase your overall strength and improve your fitness level. They will also increase your VO2max and improve your body composition.
Firefighters also need to improve their flexibility. This can be accomplished through yoga poses, stretching exercises, or foam rolling. These exercises will also help to prevent injury.
The best workouts for firefighters include various movements involving both the front and back of the body. These exercises will also increase the load you can lift in each workout.