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Career Details : Municipal Firefighters

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Description

Control and extinguish municipal fires, protect life and property and conduct rescue efforts.

Experience

Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience may be helpful in these occupations, but usually is not needed. For example, a drywall installer might benefit from experience installing drywall, but an inexperienced person could still learn to be an installer with little difficulty.

Education

These occupations usually require a high school diploma and may require some vocational training or job-related course work. In some cases, an associate's or bachelor's degree could be needed.

Training

Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees.

Tasks

  • Positions and climbs ladders to gain access to upper levels of buildings or to rescue individuals from burning structures.
  • Protects property from water and smoke, using waterproof salvage covers, smoke ejectors, and deodorants.
  • Creates openings in buildings for ventilation or entrance, using ax, chisel, crowbar, electric saw, or core cutter.
  • Selects hose nozzle, depending on type of fire, and directs stream of water or chemicals onto fire.
  • Administers first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation to injured persons and those overcome by fire and smoke.
  • Responds to fire alarms and other emergency calls.
  • Sprays foam onto runway, extinguishes fire, and rescues aircraft crew and passengers in air-crash emergency.
  • Inspects buildings for fire hazards and compliance with fire-prevention ordinances.
  • Participates in courses in hydraulics, pump operation, and fire-fighting techniques.
  • Participates in fire drills and demonstrations of fire-fighting techniques.
  • Maintains fire-fighting equipment and apparatus, vehicles, hydrants, and fire station.
  • Drives and operates fire-fighting vehicles and equipment.
  • Establishes fire lines to prevent unauthorized persons from entering area.
  • Assesses fire and situation, reports to superior, and receives instructions, using two-way radio.

    Related Careers

    Important Abilities

    General Work Activities

    Important Skills

    Frequent Work Context

    • Responsible for Others' Health & Safety
    • Consequence of Error
    • Job-Required Social Interaction
    • Frustrating Circumstances
    • Provide a Service to Others

    Related Majors

    Major Add to MyFSA
    Fire Scienceadd Fire Science to MyFSA
    Fire Science/Public Safetyadd Fire Science/Public Safety to MyFSA
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