You were a Chief Advertising Officer of a top company. You quit because suddenly you felt the burnout and boredom of your desk job. Add the fact that you didn’t feel any satisfaction or fulfillment in the many years that you spent in that field. Now you want something more physical and exciting, something more satisfying, something more noble. As you light your cigarette, you realize something that has never occurred to you before. Hey, you want to be a firefighter.
If you are sure that you really want to save lives and property by working as a firefighter, then maybe it’s really your calling. However, right now, hold your horses. Firefighting is not for everyone. Obviously, it is not an easy job. You cannot become a firefighter overnight. You will need enough time to prepare. There are a lot of things you have to know before you would be able to grab a firehose and feel proud in doing it.
Getting Ready
Many people choose firefighting as a career because usually, high school education is sufficient. You may also need to pass a comprehensive physical exam to test your strength, agility and coordination. You have to be healthy. You may also have to pass a civil service exam.
Having a two-year Fire Science degree is a great advantage in getting a job in this dangerous field. New firefighters and aspirants often train at a special school where they learn to prevent fires. Theoretical and practical classes are offered. You’ll learn how to use chain saws, axes, ladders, fire extinguishers and other important tools. You’ll also learn emergency medical procedures like first aid. You’ll also study local building codes.
Compensation
Aside from the great feeling of saving lives, firefighters also get monetary compensation. A firefighter working full time receives salary ranging between $22,000 and $50,000 per year. A part-time firefighter earns $8.00 to $25.00 an hour. Most of the time, firefighters earn overtime for working extra shifts when called in for emergencies or to maintain minimum staffing levels. Firefighting managers and supervisors earn more.
The number of firefighters are expected to grow rapidly in the future. As the population grows, the need for firefighting and emergency help increases too. The competition is stiff. Countless people want to become firefighters because it gives them a chance to help others. If ever you become one, remember to love your job so that you won’t get fired.