3 Important Duties Of A Firefighter

Firefighting is one of the most challenging professions out there. Every day, firefighters are tasked with a multitude of responsibilities and may even need to perform emergency services. It’s not an easy job, especially since there are such high expectations tied to being a firefighter.

 

Unlike most professionals who can get by with mastering just one or two skills, firefighters are expected to excel in multiple avenues. From their personality to their physique, and even their knowledge, everything needs to be stellar for you to do your job well. Here are just a few essential duties of a firefighter.

Rescuing and Handling Citizens

Emergency situations are often filled with erratic people. Concerned and fearful, many individuals may not know to respond when dealing with a crisis. It’s a firefighter's responsibility not only to rescue but also to guide people during an emergency.

During rescue missions, firefighters are tasked with communicating across their team, calming down frightened family members, and communicating with patients who need medical care. In times of crisis, surging adrenaline may mask the pain injured people are experiencing. However, tending to those who need emergency care is the firefighter's job, ensuring people receive the emotional support and medical care they need in time.

Emergency Medical Care

During a fire crisis, a variety of injuries can be expected. Some, like asthma attacks, falling unconscious, and 2^nd to 3^rd degree burns, need to be addressed immediately.  

Although paramedics are called to the scene, firefighters also need to be equipped with medical emergency knowledge. On average, paramedics will respond and arrive in just under 10 minutes, but every minute counts when dealing with critical patients. So, a firefighter must know how to perform CPR and guide individuals who are dealing with painful injuries until they can be handed over to a medical facility.

Ventilate Buildings During Fire

Along with taking care of themselves, their crew, and the people involved in the incident, firefighters are also highly alert about the building they enter. Upon entering a building that’s on fire, firefighters immediately seek out ventilation sources.

Ventilating a burning building helps reduce smoke and gas, thus, releasing the heat that’s trapped inside. Firefighters also place salvage covers on objects which can be affected by smoke or water damage. Their responsibility extends to covering structural damage wherever possible.

The work of a firefighter is no easy matter. They’re extensively trained until they’re capable of providing their best on the job.

If you’d like to be part of a team that works tirelessly to save lives, the first step is to appear for the NYC Firefighter Exam (FDNY).

THE FDNY exam consists of two sections: written and physical. This test assesses whether you’re fit to be a part of the NYC Firefighter Department. Thousands of candidates across the nation prepare for the test months in advance.

At Civil Service Success, you can get professional assistance in preparing for the civil service job of your dreams. The center provides candidates with complete exam guidance and holds workshops that give test takers all the help they need to ace their exams. Contact them today for more information.