Firefighter Expectations
A firefighter must perform physically demanding work, requiring good judgment under adverse working conditions.
Firefighters respond to fires, emergency medical calls, explosions, calls for assistance and Work in extreme temperatures; day and night; in rain, extreme heat, ice and storm/hurricane conditions.
Working Conditions May Likely Include: Exposure to fumes, gases, noxious odors, dust and poor ventilation. Work at heights on ladders, on roof tops and in closely confined and darkened spaces. Work around potential hazards: fire, explosives, chemicals, electrical shock, structural hazards, fast moving vehicles, etc. Intense exposure to water and/other liquids. Exposure to blood, serious injuries and death. Exposure to a wide range of highly emotional and traumatic events. Exposure to noise and vibration from tools, equipment, machinery, etc. Work within restrictions of personal safety equipment (e.g., breathing apparatus, steel-tip boots, hearing and eye protection, firefighting turn-out clothing, and hazardous materials gear).
During a “State of Emergency” like natural or man-made disasters, all three platoons may be required to report to work which may last as long as the emergency incidents remain. You could remain at the station for several days or weeks.