How to Be Firefighter - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

May 3, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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Firefighters play an important role in protecting the health and safety of the public. Their primary mission is to respond to and mitigate fires, hazardous materials incidents, medical emergencies, and other disasters. When they respond to a call, firefighters must assess the situation and take appropriate action.

They may use specialized equipment to safely contain and extinguish fires, as well as to protect themselves from injury or death. Firefighters also provide emergency medical care, rescue individuals from hazardous environments, and conduct public education on fire and life safety. The cause and effect of their actions are clear: by responding quickly to emergencies, firefighters help protect individuals, homes, and businesses from preventable destruction, injury, and death.

Steps How to Become

Earn a High School Diploma or GED. Firefighters must have at least a high school diploma or GED in order to be considered for a position.
Obtain First Aid and CPR Certification. Many fire departments require applicants to have First Aid and CPR certification in order to be considered for a position.
Complete Fire Science Coursework. Firefighters are required to have at least a basic understanding of fire science, so many departments require applicants to have completed fire science coursework at a college or university.
Become an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). Many fire departments require applicants to become an EMT before they can be hired as a firefighter.
Pass a Physical Exam and Background Check. Firefighters must pass a physical exam and background check in order to be hired by a fire department.
Apply for a Position. Once you have completed the necessary requirements, you can apply for a position with a local fire department. Be sure to submit your resume, cover letter, and any other required documents along with your application.

In order to stay ahead and efficient, firefighters must remain organized and focused on the task at hand. Establishing a strong chain of command, following protocols, and regularly practicing drills are key components of staying ahead and efficient. Having a clear understanding of each individuals roles and responsibilities can ensure that tasks are completed in an efficient and timely manner.

Regularly scheduled maintenance on equipment can also help to ensure that the gear is in proper working order. Adequate training and constant communication between the team are also essential in helping to maintain the efficiency of the firefighters. Furthermore, having a good understanding of local regulations and ordinances can help firefighters stay ahead of potential risks by staying informed and up-to-date.

When firefighters are organized, well-equipped, and aware of their surroundings, they are better able to serve their community and stay ahead of potential emergencies.

You may want to check Fire Hydrant Technician, Fire Equipment Technician, and Fire Recruit for alternative.

Job Description

Respond to fire alarms and investigate the cause of the alarm
Locate and extinguish fires using hoses, fire extinguishers and other equipment
Perform rescue operations in burning buildings and other hazardous conditions
Provide medical attention to victims at fire scenes
Inspect homes and businesses to identify fire hazards
Inspect and test fire protection systems
Educate the public on fire safety, including fire prevention and emergency preparedness
Participate in regular training to stay up-to-date on new procedures and technology
Maintain records of emergency calls, inspections and other activities
Operate and maintain firefighting equipment

Skills and Competencies to Have

Physical Strength and Stamina
Technical Knowledge
Leadership and Decision-Making Skills
Conflict Resolution
Ability to Work as Part of a Team
Problem-Solving Skills
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Hazard Recognition and Assessment
Fire Prevention and Risk Management
Emergency Response and Extrication Techniques
Firefighting Tactics and Strategy
Fireground Operations
Fire Safety Education and Community Outreach
Emergency Medical Care and CPR Certification

Being a firefighter is an important job that requires a variety of skills. The most important skill to have is physical and mental stamina. Firefighters need to be able to work in highly stressful and dangerous environments, often for long hours, while remaining alert and focused.

They must also have the physical strength and endurance to lift and carry heavy equipment, climb ladders, and perform other strenuous activities. Furthermore, firefighters must have excellent communication skills, as they need to be able to give clear instructions and directions to their team, as well as communicate with victims and bystanders. Finally, they must also have strong problem-solving skills, so they can find solutions to difficult or dangerous situations quickly and efficiently.

All these skills are essential for a firefighter to successfully handle their duties.

Airport Firefighter, Fire Officer, and Fire Captain are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have as a Firefighter?
What motivated you to pursue a career as a Firefighter?
Describe a situation where you worked as part of a team to respond to a fire emergency.
Are you familiar with the types of equipment and tools used in firefighting?
How do you react in emergency or high-stress situations?
How do you handle the physical and mental demands of the job?
How do you stay up to date on the latest firefighting techniques and regulations?
Describe a time when you had to use your problem-solving skills to resolve a difficult situation.
What safety measures do you take when responding to a hazardous situation?
How would you handle a situation where someone was injured while responding to a fire emergency?

Common Tools in Industry

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Equipment worn by firefighters to protect themselves from fires, smoke, and other environmental hazards. (eg: fire helmet, fire coat, and fire boots)
Fire Hose. A long, flexible hose used to transport water to extinguish fires. (eg: canvas hose, rubber hose, and suction hose)
Fire Extinguisher. A hand-held device used to extinguish small fires. (eg: carbon dioxide extinguisher, foam extinguisher, and dry chemical extinguisher)
Fire Axe. A tool used to break down walls and doors in order to gain access to a fire. (eg: pick head axe, flat head axe, and combination axe)
Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC). A device used to detect heat sources in order to locate victims and combat fire. (eg: FLIR ONE Pro and FLIR K2)
Rescue Tools. Tools designed to help rescue victims from confined spaces. (eg: spreaders, cutters, and hydraulic rams)
Ventilation Tools. Tools used to create ventilation pathways in order to reduce the amount of smoke and heat in an area. (eg: power saws, pike poles, and ventilation fans)
Ladder. A tall, moveable structure used to gain access to upper floors or roofs of buildings. (eg: extension ladder, roof ladder, and aerial ladder)

Professional Organizations to Know

International Association of Fire Chiefs
International Fire Service Training Association
National Volunteer Fire Council
National Fire Protection Association
Firefighters Charitable Foundation
International Association of Fire Fighters
International Society of Fire Service Instructors
Fire Engineering Magazine
Fire Engineering Books and Videos
Firehouse Magazine

We also have Firefighter/Inspector, Fire Prevention Officer, and Fire Prevention Specialist jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Fire Station. A building equipped with firefighting equipment and personnel that respond to emergency calls.
Fire Chief. The highest-ranking officer in the fire department, responsible for its overall operations and performance.
Firefighter. A trained professional who responds to fires and other emergency situations.
Fire Truck. A vehicle used by firefighters to respond to emergency calls and transport equipment and personnel.
Fire Hose. A flexible tube used to transport water from a water source to a firefighting nozzle.
Fire Extinguisher. A handheld device used to extinguish small fires.
Hazmat. An abbreviation for hazardous materials, which are dangerous or potentially harmful substances.
Fire Drill. A practice exercise conducted in a building or workplace to ensure everyone knows what to do in the event of a fire.
Fire Prevention. Strategies and tactics used to reduce the risk of fires and minimize the damage caused by them.
Fire Safety. Practices and procedures designed to prevent fires from occurring and minimize the risks associated with them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hours do firefighters usually work?

Firefighters typically work 24-hour shifts, followed by 48 hours off, though some departments may have alternative schedules.

What qualifications are required to become a firefighter?

To become a firefighter, applicants must pass a written exam, a physical agility test, a medical physical, an oral interview and a background check.

What is the highest level of firefighting certification?

The highest level of firefighting certification is Fire Officer IV. This requires several years of experience and includes the completion of a variety of advanced courses.

What type of equipment do firefighters use?

Firefighters use a variety of equipment including fire extinguishers, hose lines, ladders, pike poles, ventilation equipment, and specialized rescue tools.