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Sammie
Student
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What is the most exciting part of being a firefighter?
What makes you excited to get out of bed and go to work?
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Brian Heckert
writer/editor/content manager
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Orem, Utah
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Brian’s Answer
Hi, Sammie. I am no longer a firefighter, but used to be many years ago. It can be physically demanding, but the daily opportunity of being able to help someone is always exciting and fulfilling. Additionally, it was always satisfying to work with and use the equipment such as the Scott Air-Pak or Jaws of Life. I can still vividly recall the first house fire we responded to. It was exciting and scary at the same time. But we were so well-trained that the actions came naturally. You just did what you had to do. Be prepared to train and train some more! You will get close to the people you work with. You will enjoy meals together. Having said that, the life of a firefighter can be challenging on relationships and family life. Depending on schedules, you can work long hours. We worked every other day (24 on, 24 off), then had three days off every two weeks. I recommend going to your local fire station and talking with various members of the crew. Ask them what they like and what they don't like about the job. Also, be aware that many departments these days only hire people with college degrees. Many of the people you will be competing with for job openings will have associate degrees or even bachelor's degrees. Good luck to you!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Sammie!
The exhilaration of saving a life from the imminent danger of fiery death, and bestowing upon them a second chance at life, is an experience beyond words. It's akin to being a lifeguard. It's a thrilling endeavor as the person you save realizes their worth and the divine intervention that spared them on that particular day. They feel cherished and significant! I've had the privilege of experiencing this several times. The early morning run at the surf club is always a refreshing start to the day.
On the 25th of August, 1973, Bruce Lawler suffered a horrific shark attack that resulted in the loss of his leg. My chief instructor, David Adamson, was at his side in a heartbeat. The shark had not only bitten Bruce but also taken a chunk out of his surfboard. David courageously pulled Bruce from the clutches of the bronze whaler shark. Amid the chaos of trying to get Bruce onto David's plywood surf ski, Bruce's leg bone punctured the deck of the ski!
Our first-aid team performed exceptionally well. David wrapped his hands around Bruce's leg to stem the bleeding. His femoral artery had been severed, and his leg was slowly losing blood.
But here's the amazing part - we saved his life! David Adamson showcased immense bravery. He is the strongest man I've ever known, capable of curl-lifting his own body weight with a single arm. He never missed a day of exercise! The gratitude expressed by the doctor was overwhelming!
Jim.
The exhilaration of saving a life from the imminent danger of fiery death, and bestowing upon them a second chance at life, is an experience beyond words. It's akin to being a lifeguard. It's a thrilling endeavor as the person you save realizes their worth and the divine intervention that spared them on that particular day. They feel cherished and significant! I've had the privilege of experiencing this several times. The early morning run at the surf club is always a refreshing start to the day.
On the 25th of August, 1973, Bruce Lawler suffered a horrific shark attack that resulted in the loss of his leg. My chief instructor, David Adamson, was at his side in a heartbeat. The shark had not only bitten Bruce but also taken a chunk out of his surfboard. David courageously pulled Bruce from the clutches of the bronze whaler shark. Amid the chaos of trying to get Bruce onto David's plywood surf ski, Bruce's leg bone punctured the deck of the ski!
Our first-aid team performed exceptionally well. David wrapped his hands around Bruce's leg to stem the bleeding. His femoral artery had been severed, and his leg was slowly losing blood.
But here's the amazing part - we saved his life! David Adamson showcased immense bravery. He is the strongest man I've ever known, capable of curl-lifting his own body weight with a single arm. He never missed a day of exercise! The gratitude expressed by the doctor was overwhelming!
Jim.