Becoming a firefighter?

[fustercluck]

A lot of local schools around here train people to become a firefighter, and I noticed they make some pretty good cash. Would be sort of an interesting job. Although fighting fires is about the least of what they do (i think...). I believe they mostly do other things like go to the scene of an accident or rescue people if needed...and capturing snakes (well, here in Tucson anyways), a lot of stuff other than firefighting.

I am (not seriously) considering taking the needed classes to become a firefighter or whatever else I might find interesting in a firefighting career.

The "Area of Study" is "Fire Science"

"Prepares you for: Taking tests for certification as an entry-level firefighter in Arizona; employment or advancement in a firefighting career"

I'm sure I could come up with many reasons on why I wouldn't be qualified. For one, I'm somewhat out of shape. Anyhow, just wanted to see what people had to say.

sorry for any typos...I don't have a monitor currently so I'm using a TV on the other side of my room.

 

[GoldenGuppy]

Go for it! Firefighting is an admirable occupation--not to mention it makes the girls go crazy over you (haha).

If you can get yourself to seriously consider going for this field then getting into shape should just be a by-product of your motivation! Give it a shot, at least take the class, I'm sure you'll learn some valuable things either way.

 

[MedicBob]

Look at the job market, some are very flooded with FF and have 500 to 1000 applicants for 1 job. Other then that, it is a good job.

 

[fustercluck]

Originally posted by: MedicBob
Look at the job market, some are very flooded with FF and have 500 to 1000 applicants for 1 job. Other then that, it is a good job.

Really? Dang. If I'm going to be a 1 out of 500 chance even after taking the entire course then I'm screwed.

 

[lozina]

you better get yourself in shape then. the physical tests make a big part of how high in the list you put and with many applicants if you not near the top of the list you wont ever get in

 

[FoBoT]

poll?

 

[marulee]

Sounds fun...

Just a curiousity.. if you are a firefighter.. do you have to quit smoking?

 

[edro]

Are you a body builder? All fire fighters are also body builders.

 

[Miramonti]

Go for it, but you have to look beyond the pay in this job. It may pay pretty good, but can be rewarding enough to accept less than the max you can make elsewhere. If you don't think you'll find it rewarding, stay away.

People have a love/hate relationship with the cops, but as for fireman, they're pretty much respected everywhere (and deservedly so imo.)