Do firefighters get a lot of free time?

Do firefighters get a lot of free time?

Fire Department personnel can never be trained too much as there are so many types of fires and emergency calls. Every call or run is unique from others they have been on. So no, there is really never any slow times being a Firefighter.

Do firefighters sleep at night?

Firefighters are always in “ready response” mode, so their day is by no means over after 5pm. In fact, sometimes companies work throughout the night with no sleep at all.

Are firefighters paid to sleep?

Yes, Firefighters do actually sleep in the firehouse. Both paid career firefighters and volunteer firefighters. Some volunteer firefighters actually live in the firehouse.

Is 32 too old to become a firefighter?

You can become a professional firefighter after 30, 40, or even 50 at some fire departments. There are departments that have upper age limits between 28 and 40, while others have no upper age requirements for firefighters. There are usually no upper age limits to be a volunteer firefighter.

How do I start a career in firefighting?

Becoming a firefighter: 10 must-do things

1. Become an EMT.
2. Volunteer your time.
3. Take fire technology classes.
4. Maintain a clean background and lifestyle.
5. Understand all of the phases of the firefighter hiring process.
6. Start taking firefighter tests.
7. Stop by fire stations.
8. Get some life experience.

Are firemen drug tested?

You must pass a background check and in some instances, a drug screening as part of the requirements to be a firefighter. If you have a criminal history, or fail the drug test, you will most likely be disqualified from becoming a firefighter.

What is the career path for a firefighter?

After attending a fire academy, firefighters must usually complete a probationary period. Firefighters can be promoted to engineer, then to lieutenant, captain, battalion chief, assistant chief, deputy chief, and, finally, chief.

Can you make a career out of firefighting?

Many firefighters earn a degree in fire science to advance their career. It’s also wise to become an EMT. Having both a fire and EMS background will improve your odds of being hired. Some departments might even require an EMT certification; larger departments may require a paramedic’s license.

What skills do you need to become a firefighter?

Firefighters should also possess the following specific qualities:

• Communication skills. Firefighters must be able to communicate conditions at an emergency scene to other firefighters and to emergency-response crews.
• Courage.
• Decision-making skills.
• Physical stamina.
• Physical strength.

How many days a year do firefighters work?

Shift Cycles This schedule is followed by 12- to 14-hour night shifts for three to four days. Then, firefighters have three or four consecutive days off before the cycle begins again. Regardless of the type of shift worked, firefighters can expect to be scheduled on any of the year’s 365 days.

How long is training for a firefighter?

between 12 and 16 weeks