WHAT IS A FIREFIGHTER?

The job of a firefighter is one of the most personally rewarding careers an individual can have.  There was a line in a movie recently that said, "There are no more heroes left in America."  After, September 11, 2001, most Americans found out who the true heroes are – the firefighters.

This is a profession of helping.  How many jobs can you name where you can go to work and be of service to people continuously?  Whether it is rescuing people from a burning building, caring for their medical needs, extinguishing fires in a home or in a large mercantile building, this profession is all about helping others.

Ninety-eight percent of firefighters look forward each and every day to going to work.  Can you say that about your current profession?  When you become a firefighter, you become part of a family.  The firefighters you work side by side with become as close to you as your own family members.  There are not many jobs as rewarding as a firefighter – the camaraderie, the helping of others, having pride in what you do, job security, and just an overall good feeling about yourself.

Firefighting demands a high level of dedication and professionalism for those who choose it as a career.  A firefighter must possess the courage and stamina to risk their lives for the sake of others.  They must also study long hours and go through extensive periods of training to become effective and efficient professional firefighters. 

The pursuit of becoming a firefighter can be a successful one – if you truly want it.  This is not a career choice that you sort of want, kind of want – you have to really want it.  The competition is tough, but the people who put in their heart and soul and hours of preparation are the ones who come out on top.

The process of becoming a firefighter involves taking a written examination, physical agility exam, psychological exams, medical and background checks, and oral interview.