Are emergency service based jobs worth it?
I am debating if I should do this, but the problem is, I don't know if it is worth getting into with the work hours and dangers. #emergency-medicine #hospital-and-health-care #firefighting #law-enforcement
#isitworthit #should-I?
5 answers
Paul’s Answer
The job is very rewarding and definitely worth it, but it takes a certain kind of person to be able to deal with the challenges that come with it. There are definitely challenges in emergency services and at first I wasn’t too sure if I’d be able to deal with it either. I did a lot of research on it and tried to give myself as realistic picture of it in my mind before I jumped into it. You can’t totally prepare yourself for actually performing the job but it’s better to research it a good amount so you aren’t going in blind. You’ve already started that process here which is good. I encourage you to continue to read up and learn about the job you are most interested in. Bottom line you just have to truly love helping people. Have you done any volunteer work at a hospital or Habitat for Humanity and felt great about the experience of helping others no matter how small the part? Then this could be your calling. I took some time to get used to the hours, I work 24 hour shifts, but it’s definitely doable. Dangers in EMS, I can’t speak for fire or police (I’m an EMT), are there but if you follow protocol and don’t try to be a hero then they are limited and typically controllable. For example on 911 calls we take that have a person who could potentially harm themselves or others then we aren’t allowed onscene before police have gotten control of the situation.
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Kim’s Answer
I don't know how you define "worth it." That is a question we each have to answer for ourselves. Having retired from law enforcement ten years ago, yes, it was worth it. However, I have to say, I would probably not go into it today. Why? Because you have to assume that everything you do is being recorded. Even if you are a good cop, that can cost you your job. We all had times where we let people throw things away rather than arrest them. Underage alcohol, for example. It's a much different world now.
I hope you get some more feedback, as this is a good question!
Kim
Joaquin’s Answer
That's a good question! I'll ask you a few questions that might help you decide whether it is worth it.
- Do you get a feeling of satisfaction by helping others?
- Do you enjoy making your home or community a safer place?
- Are you calm under pressure and constant scrutiny?
If you answered "YES" to all of the questions above, you may find that emergency service based jobs (police, EMT, CSI, ...etc.) are worth it. It shouldn't be for the money. Pay is good for most of these jobs, but you won't become a millionaire from just your wages. If you realize that you do like to help people in need, and think that you can make a difference to improve the safety, health, justice within your community, then these jobs are a good fit. If you can still do your job well even though people may be adding pressure around you (citizens and bosses) by looking at each mistake you make as an opportunity to improve, then you are ideal for emergency service based jobs. Take stock of your "real" answers (not just, maybe?) to those questions above and you'll be able to answer your own question if these jobs are "worth it". Good Luck!
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Rose’s Answer
Benefits:
Being a Life-Changer: As an emergency service professional, you will be a beacon of hope during people's most challenging times. The satisfaction derived from saving lives or easing pain is immeasurable.
Thriving in a Dynamic Setting: If you flourish in ever-changing scenarios, the unpredictable nature of emergency service work will keep you engaged. Each day presents fresh challenges that demand swift thinking and adaptability.
Solidarity and Teamwork: The high-pressure situations encountered by emergency service teams foster a robust sense of camaraderie, mutual support, and shared mission.
Career Stability: The continuous demand for skilled emergency personnel ensures job security. These roles offer a stable career path with opportunities for advancement.
Challenges:
High-Stress and Rigorous: Emergency service professionals regularly confront stressful situations and make crucial decisions under pressure. Witnessing human suffering can take a significant emotional toll.
Erratic Work Hours: Be prepared for an inconsistent schedule, including night shifts, weekends, and holidays. This can pose a challenge to maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
Physical Exertion: The job often involves lifting patients, working in confined spaces, and standing for extended periods. Hence, physical fitness and endurance are vital.
Risk Exposure: Emergency service professionals may occasionally encounter potentially hazardous situations.
Additional considerations include:
Your temperament: Are you someone who remains composed under pressure? Can you maintain calm in chaotic situations?
Your passions: Are you inclined towards medical emergencies, or do you have a preference for fire safety or search and rescue operations?
Your lifestyle: Are you equipped to manage an erratic schedule and demanding workload?
In the end, the choice of whether a career in emergency services is "worth it" is a deeply personal one. If you have a passion for helping others, can cope with stress, and thrive in a dynamic setting, then this career path can be immensely satisfying.
It's advisable to explore specific emergency service roles that pique your interest, such as EMT, paramedic, firefighter, or dispatcher. This will provide a clearer picture of the day-to-day tasks and specific requirements.
Stacey’s Answer
They are very rewarding jobs. You work a lot but it takes heartfelt individuals to selflessly help others.