Firefighting is a dangerous job. The average firefighter has a chance of dying during his or her career. Even though firefighters put their lives on the line each time they report to work, many find the job fulfilling. However, getting started as a firefighter can be intimidating. There are certain rules that are specific to fire stations and departments, but it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of what to expect once you join your first department. Below are 11 rules for new firefighters.
The station house is not the place to get in trouble
It’s a place where firefighters train & prepare, and also live. If you’re going to do something stupid, don’t do it at the station house.
You will be judged on how you perform when there is a call
When responding to a call, it won’t matter if you wore clean underwear today, or took out the trash yesterday. What matters most is your performance during the actual incident.
You should never go into a burning building alone
Whether you’re alone or with someone else, if you enter a burning building, take someone with you! Firefighters are trained to respond to an emergency situation and be able to handle stress and danger. Having someone with you who can help you keep calm and think clearly can make all the difference between life and death.
Your primary responsibility is to protect the community
Not only does this mean helping people evacuate from a structure or area that is on fire, but it means protecting the public from harm. You are held accountable for your actions and must make sure that everyone in your area is safe and accounted for.
It’s okay to ask questions
In fact, it’s encouraged! The more you ask questions, the better prepared you will be for an emergency situation. Ask questions when you’re training, at meetings, or when talking with others in your department. Just remember to do so respectfully and tactfully!
See more: https://ezcustomgifts.com/6-tips-for-passing-your-firefighting-interview/
You should always be prepared
If there’s an emergency at your house or place of business, make sure you have at least one escape route planned ahead of time to ensure a survival plan. This could mean a door in the kitchen leading outside or an office window that opens onto the roof. Make sure everyone in your family knows what to do if there’s an emergency and practice these safety techniques often!
It’s okay not to know everything
No matter how old you are or how long you’ve been around fires, there will always be new situations that are unfamiliar to you and others in your department. That’s why it’s important to learn as much as you can about the things you encounter on a daily basis.
Firefighting is a team sport
At any time an emergency may occur, it’s vital that everyone pulls together and works together to help those affected by the crisis. If you see something suspicious or hear something odd, contact your fellow crew members immediately!
Know the drill
A large part of becoming a firefighter is being familiar with the different types of emergencies that might happen throughout the day. Learn about the different types of fires from smoke alarms to hazardous materials, as well as how to rescue people from high places or water in cases of drowning.
Before a workday, start planning your schedule carefully. Choose which shifts you’ll be working and plan accordingly. Knowing what you need to do before starting your shift will help make sure you are ready for anything and everything that might come up.
If you are running late, call your supervisor before starting your shift to make sure you are still on your intended schedule.
Always know the number of extinguishers available in case a fire breaks out
This will allow you to keep the fire under control since extinguishers need to be used properly in order to work effectively and efficiently. Also, make sure that the extinguishers are placed in areas where they can be easily accessed by anyone who needs them during an emergency situation.
Fires are unpredictable, so having a proper plan can save lives
The last thing you want to learn about firefighting is that fires are not predictable; therefore, it’s important to have a plan for every situation that might arise. Being prepared gives you the ability to react quickly and effectively in a crisis and makes it easier to save lives.
Being well-trained and prepared for every situation makes it easier for them to react quickly when an emergency occurs, which can mean the difference between life and death.
See more: https://ezcustomgifts.com/12-tips-for-probationary-fire-fighters/
