Fire Fighter
A fire fighter is a person that performs the act of fire fighting and carries out various procedures that are necessary to extinguish the unwanted fire. Fire fighter not only prevents fire but also prevents the destruction of life and property threatened by fire. Fire fighters are often the first responders to people in critical conditions, fire fighters often practice basic life support, often as licensed paramedics. The fire fighting team analyzes the situation, creates a safe plan, and usually attack the fire by one or more means which is accompanied with possible rescue work. It is very important to call the fire fighters when there is any possibility that the fire cannot be controlled within few seconds, as fire grows very rapidly. These fire fighters are very trained members of government supported organizations such as fire departments. During their duty hours they are trained to respond immediately to a fire or any other emergency tthat arrises.
Fire fighting is a dangerous task and therefore it requires organization and team work. A fire fighter spends much of their time at fire stations where they are trained under superior officers. In every emergency situation they perform specific tasks that are alloted to them. They connect hose lines to hydrants, operate a pump to send water to high pressure hoses and position ladders to enable them to deliver water to the fire. Apart from all these operations a fire fighter is also involved in rescue operations and provide emergency medical attention. Fire fighters work in variety of settings including railways, airports, chemical plants and rural areas like grasslands and forests.
For a fire fighter job a person has to meet up certain necessary requirements: minimum of 18 years of age, they should pass the statutory fitness test that includes a step test, a grip test and a leg/back pull test. For a fire fighter they also have to pass very stringent medical and eye examination designed to make sure you are fit to undertake arduous firefighting duties. Attend emergency and other calls for assistance. As emergencies can occur in all kinds of locations they are trained according to those difficult situations. A number of fire departments have accredited apprenticeship programs lasting up to 4 years. These programs combine formal, technical instruction with on-the-job training under the supervision of experienced fire fighters. The technical training covers subjects such as techniques used for fire fighting, chemical hazards associated with various substances, medical procedures, fire prevention and safety etc.
After getting all the knowledge and expertise then there is an initial training for about 20 weeks where the basic skills of a firefighter including use of breathing apparatus, ladder safety and hose lying are acquired and practiced. Along with these training sessions they also impart some personal qualities which are required for a fire fighter to have such as: mental alertness, self-discipline, courage, mechanical aptitude, endurance, strength, and a sense of public service. By the combination of all these classroom and practical lessons a person can become a complete fire fighter knowing all their duty and work. And finally you will be expected to work at any fire station and can gain that essential frontline experience.