ALT-2 Skills Needed to become a Firefighter
When everyone else is running out of burning buildings, firefighters are the heroes who are running into the inferno. Such a selfless act takes incredible courage. The events of the tragedy of 9/11 showed the world the bravery, courage, and selflessness of our once unsung heroes. To become a firefighter there are certain skills needed. This is a highly competitive field and the hiring process is grueling and challenging. More than 70% of applicants give up trying to become a firefighter and pursue another field. The application process usually includes a background check, an oral interview, a medical examination, a psychological evaluation, and a Candidate physical ability test (CPAT). Listed are some of theskillsneeded to become a firefighter.
~ Physical Abilities
Firefighters have to be strong enough to carry theirheavy gear, a heavy hose, and be able to pick up and remove victims from burning buildings, often having to carry them down long flights of stairs. The helmet weight 5 pounds, the jacket weighs 15 pounds and the trousers and boots weigh as much as 30 pounds, the mask and air pack weigh around 30 pounds, supplemental gear not counting an ax and water hose, 60-70 pounds. Firemen must be agile enough to get into impossibly tight spaces to find victims. A medical and physical exam is given to firefighters which they must pass to prove they have the ability to perform these acts under pressure. A firefighter must be physically fit.
~ First Aid Skills
Firefighters must possess first aid skills and be an expert in CPR, assessment and victim stabilization, how to perform CPR, first aid techniques. A firefighter’s emergencies often include auto accidents (MVC), natural disasters, chemical spills, and medical emergencies. Applicants who become certified in CPR, and becoming a certifiedparamedicshave a better chance for being hired as a firefighter. CPR certification is available through the American Red Cross. Local colleges offer paramedic training.
~ Safety Knowledge
Whether entering a burning building or extracting victims from mangled cars involved in accidents, firefighters must have knowledge of safety procedures and techniques. They must be able to survey scenes and access dangers. They must have effective communication skills with colleagues, victims, and other emergency responders. Taking fire technology classes at a local college improves chances of being hired as a firefighter.
~ Knowledge of Equipment
Firefighters have to use axes, drills, saws, a high pressure hose, cutters, spreaders, and the “jaws of life”. They have to be able to drive the fire engines, which require greater skills than driving an automobile. They have to know when and how to use a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), and the Personal Alert Safety System (PASS).
~ Knowledge of the city
Firefighters must have first-hand knowledge of neighborhoods, streets, addresses, and have knowledge of where hydrants and mains are located throughout the city and outlaying areas.
~ Personal attributes
Firefighters must possess certain attributes in order to fulfill their roles as firefighters. These attributes includeintegrity, confidence, adaptability, resilience, and a commitment to diversity. They must show sensitivity when talking to members of the public, who may be distressed and confused. They must be able to communicate effectively with community groups, schools, and volunteer organizations. They must put away their biases and treat all people with dignity and respect.
~ Knowledge of heat stress and fatigue
Firefighters were heavy insulated clothing and cannot shed the heat from physical exertion. They must know the signs of heat stress. Dehydration and heat stress is a major issue in that the firefighter can die from these conditions. Technology allows a degree of early warning to physiological stress through the use of the PASS device which alert 10-20 seconds after a firefighter has stopped moving in a structure.
These skills are essential for becoming a firefighter. Competition is fierce for becoming a firefighter, but chances can be improved by having the proper skills that are considered essential in become a firefighter.
