That is if you live in the US, most if not all countries in Europe separate ambulance services and fire services, and ambulances are instead attached to hospitals and their own stations as opposed to being stationed at fire stations
Little tid-bit on sleep: you don’t ACTUALLY sleep at the station. Even if you don’t get calls, your body sleeps differently because you subconsciously are waiting for a call. You never truly reach that good-good REM sleep.
The fact that you shouted out for dispatches was honestly amazing. Been dispatcher for 7 years and it's been hard lately. No weekends for 2 months, the shift work. The stressful calls and then going straight home and trying to wind down and sleep. The shoutout was much appreciated. Dispatching for me can be more difficult at times than volunteer fire or ems. I've done all three and dispatching pays the most but also takes a tole on your health.
Great dispatchers are so underrated. I actually just posted another video today giving props to the dispatcher who was doing a great job. I wish more people recognized how hard that job is.
As a firefighter, thank you for everything you do for your community. We couldn't do our jobs without you. You're the one that takes the call and tells us where we're needed. We may know a house is on fire, but if we don't know where to go we can drive around and look for it but that would take way too much precious time. You may be behind the phone and radio, but you're the Frontline in getting us where we need to be, so thank you.
@@gote406 they have a hard job. I recently transitioned into a law enforcement officer and I’ve been able to advocate for dispatchers at city council meetings. It’s a hard job and very under appreciated. It’s interesting moving into a position as an officer. You get a handshake and a thank you everywhere you turn. That was definitely not the case as a dispatcher. I’ll definitely take up that role and show the dispatchers that work with me appreciation.
The stress of how a lot of the callers talk to you. I’ve been guilty of that on occasion too. So sorry. After answering all the questions and giving as much detail as possible whatever help you requested arrives and has absolutely no idea what they’re there for. Makes it seem like such a waste of time to provide the answers for you. Again… I’m so sorry. You’re just doing your job to the best of your ability. Thank You for that❣️
You hit the nail on the head sir. Especially the tragedy issue. Thinking of the family is what gets me too. We had an 8 year old male drown while on vacation in our city. The hardest part was knowing his family would travel back home with an empty seat and going back to their house with his bicycle in the driveway, his socks still hanging out of his dresser drawers, his toys still scattered throughout his room, etc. Thank you for posting this video.
my community lost 300 homes to a wildfire this year. and yet, what I really feel affected by was the child with a brittle bone disorder, who couldn't play without the risk of breaking bones.
My dad was a volunteer firefighter from before I was born. It got into my bloodstream. As a result of a TBI when I was 21 and resulting seizures I haven’t been able to take part in it. He told me some stories about such things. But what really got me was a friend of mine I work with who told me that being from as super small community as he is that the chance of having to respond to a call concerning a close friend or family member is fairly high. He has an aged father who is not in good health. He was saying that if he had to respond to his own father’s call and it ended badly would’ve been the last call he thought he could’ve made. Another friend of mine who was on another neighboring towns department told me about responding to his best friend who had a fatal MVA. It affected him so badly that was the last call he ever made. Even being from a small department, you still will see bad things happen fairly often. That’s just a part of the business. PTSD will affect members of Public Safety. I know it wasn’t spoken about in the fire service especially until lately. It’s a risk you HAVE TO know could happen being in public safety line of work.
I heard this story about a young man who was going to be a firefighter. He passed fitness tests, psycho tests, was healthy and excited to be a firefighter. The last step he had to take to fulfill his dream was to sign the contract. Some time before signing the contract, he had time with friends. During the interview, one of his friends mentioned: Do you realize that you will be taking dead bodies out of crashed cars? The young man was stunned, it was as if he realized for the first time that he would have to deal with a tragedy. Turns out that was the reason he didn't sign the contract.
When I was a teenager, I met a new guy on my job who said he used to be a firefighter. He told us that he quit after taking his first highway wreck. There was an injured kid whose foot was severed during the crash. He said he knew it wasn't for him when he heard the kid ask his mother (who was critically injured) *"Mommy where's my shoes?"*
20 year fire service member here. For those of you who want to get back to sleep faster when up at that early morning call and be more rested, get a weighted blanket for your bunk. I fall back asleep faster than ever before especially after a call that has your adrenaline pumping.
I unfortunately don't have what it takes to be a firefighter myself but I found the next best thing i can do. I work in cleaning and repairing firefighter uniforms and gear to make sure they have what they need to do their job. It's like my boss put it "we help heroes be heroes" Support your local fire fighters Edit: i appreciate the love and support y'all have shown towards me but i regret to inform that i no longer work at that job anymore. The company was bought out and i do not agree with the direction they are taking things. Oh well, but keep supporting your local firefighters
@@kaushalpatel8610 the time commitment should not be understated. You will spend a large portion of your life living at the fire station having to be ready for any emergency. I know of fire fighters who have been immediately fired because of being intoxicated when they needed to be ready. I know it sounds like a small thing (don't drink) but the stress does get to you. Constant lack of sleep, constant exposure to tragedy, constantly having to sacrifice time with loved ones to be ready to serve your community. Honestly, I have huge respect for anyone who can carry that load. Not to mention the health risk. Sure not every fire is a huge burnout but on the occasions where it is, you are risking your life and safety to protect others. And the smoke takes it toll. Many career fire fighters end up having to fight cancer. The company I work for was founded by a man who made it his life mission to make it safer for fire fighters to do their work. That's why our company makes a strong effort to clean and repair their uniforms and gear so they have what they need to do their job. Sadly the man who started it died last year after fighting cancer himself. Support your local fire fighters, they give so much of themselves for our communities.
Jerry clearly doesn't have experience in fire then, because it's absolutely true. You can't take things personally, but you have to be willing to take criticism
@@richardtaylor9798 Do you realize how terrible the logic in that is? Telling new people to grow thick skin because their surperiors are expected to harass them? Maybe the superiors should stop harassing people. And if you are talking about teasing, that's very different than harassment.
I’m glad your #1 is so spot on. So many times I’ve heard guys talk about how excited they are to make a ton of money during fire season but that’s not what it’s about. It’s a career you choose because you have a passion for service, camaraderie, and self improvement.
You are on point I can’t say it enough. I have been a fireman in the Houston Fire Department for twenty five years and an instructor at the Houston Community College for twenty three years. I use your videos in my lectures for our entry level students to reinforce the pros and cons of our career and the decisions we make in like. Don’t stop you are doing a great job!
Definitely some valid points. Where things like nutrition, health, etc. is concerned, al lot of that is based on choice. You have a choice to make: A pizza from Pizza Hut or grilled Chicken, rice, and veggies? Soda from the department soda machine or water/ice tea/other? Recliner time or an hour in the gym? We could go on and on, but again, it's about choices.
#7 Is why I gave it up after 15 years. Especially after being on the other side as one of those family members. No matter how much you think you do you never understand the grief until experiencing it for yourself. After that I just couldn't handle seeing distraught family members and holding it together until I got back sometimes hours later to the station and go into my room and cry and cry.
@@jeffbaumann244 - Where I woeked, a shitload more cops became firemen than the other way around. Much respect for your trade, I do not have the temperament for your job.
#7 is exactly right.. we all process some of the gruesome things that we see in different ways, but to see and hear family members drop to their knees screaming for their loved ones lost, that's so much worse..
This is the one that gets me. I want to be the person to help make those tragic situations as manageable as possible & do the work to help the situation. I don't know how seeing those tragedies will effect me though.
Being paged out at 0500 to assist with a medical call. Being there, performing CPR, and seeing the wife react when she is told her husband has died. Clearing off the scene and then going home, take a shower and head off to your day job.
my dad works as a part-time firefighter and a lot of what you talked about I recognize those nights when the searcher beeps all night long and you don't get any sleep and only since I was a little girl have I wanted to be a firefighter because I want to help I even want to follow in my father's footsteps and here where I live, there have been a shortage of people at the station. my local fire station is too small for people to live or sleep in but those who are firemen or women usually live near the station and I know that the firemen see a lot of things that can affect a person so I always give my dad a hug every time he comes home and asks how it went to show that I care about him I'm not very good at speaking the words out that I want to say but I can feel compassion for everyone that I meet. You firefighters are the best and you are the Tru heroes love from a small village in Sweden.❤ 🚒
You hit this right on the dot man. Being a volunteer firefighter for 7 years and also exposed to firefighting since being a toddler, ive grown to understand how the fire service really works. Its very hard sometimes, the things you see are sometimes more than what the average person will ever see in their entire lifetime. In fact, just a few weeks ago, we were called to our local landfill for an equipment accident, and when we arrived, we found a 21 yr old male severed in half by a reversing dumptruck that pinned him between a wall. It was one of the worst things ive ever seen in my life. It takes guts to take stuff like that in and not completely break down. But anyways, thanks again for making this vid and completely selling the point perfectly!
As someone studying for the fire industry, and fire department this video was very helpful some things here I notice in myself but I am willing to change parts about myself to do my best as a future fire fighter.
I am almost in my senior year. My dream job was to become a firefighter. I was thinking about what I am going to do with my life. I thought getting into firefighting would be easy, but I will still try because I actually want to help and be a hero.
When I chose firefighting as my dream job, I was always fascinated by fire. I would often play around with it, which led to me getting three second-degree burns. However, what truly inspired me to pursue this career was the overwhelming desire to save lives. There is nothing quite like the feeling of seeing someone you rescued run off safely with their family. When you become firefighter, you become a hero the moment you sign up for the job. You understand the risks involved and are willing to put your life on the line to protect others. It's a title that holds great meaning and carries immense responsibility. I will continue to pursue my dream of becoming a firefighter, knowing that my actions and choices can have a profound impact on the lives of others. I know that It's important that I maintain the highest level of commitment, skill, and professionalism, ensuring that I can make a difference in every situation I encounter. Iam bound to make mistakes as I am just like you guys but i will learn from whatever problems life throws at me. (if i can) *srry if i wrote a long one*
Great explanation. I was worried it was going to be like “you have to be macho to be a firefighter!”But what you said is true. Thank you for this realistic post about our career.
I'm in the Marine Corps and in the process of getting out, and firefighting does not sound too different from what I do already. I'm excited to get started and join the firefighting force.
You're right, it's not that different. Show up when you're supposed to, know what you're doing, do what they tell you, then do whatever else needs done and they think you hung the moon. I was also in the Corps ('69-'71, 3/7 1st MARDIV; was an 0341) and having that in your history shows you can work with others, under duress, and you're used to the chain-of-command thing. Veteran's preference points that were added to test scores at the time helped but don't know if that's still common. Did 34 yrs with Ventura County Fire and couldn't have asked for a better career. Been retired 15 and still can't believe they pay me just to keep breathing! Hope you give it a shot, bud.
Had the amazing opportunity today/tonight to get a walk through a fire house, try on some equipment and check out a little look into the life of a volunteer/full time firefighter and all I can is props to you ladies and gentlemen doing this on a daily basis I can’t imagine what it’s like to do this everyday in and out. I e got nothing but respect for all of you out there and thank you so much for your service it’s a big sacrifice a lot of people don’t think about twice or realize what you do for the community
Very good video. I am a 30+ year veteran of the fire service and I have seen people come and go. For the most part the good ones stay. Sometimes the good ones leave and the bad ones stay. I have been blessed to work with mostly great firefighters. If I had to add to this list, it would be those who think they are going to be heroes are going to be very disappointed and most likely a dangerous member of their crew. Everyone from the chief of the department to training to the rank and file firefighters are part of each and every life saved. You will never do anything alone; thus, you will never be a hero.
After 30 plus years in both vol. and career your take on the job and the reasons not to become a firefighter is spot on. However, it is the greatest job ever as long as you have a heart to serve others FIRST.
All good points, its been a great career for me, over the years.. The tragedy has by far become the hardest part, after 25+ years I've seen more death and tragedy than I ever care to see. I've always been very sympathetic with the family and friends but the deaths have become as common as filling up gas, just another another thing in life. I became concerned for my own mental health when I realized I was becoming nonemotional about deaths, it weighs on you year after year, don't be afraid to reach out for help.
@@09764312468 confined space training. A lot of crawling. A buddy of mine had to work through his while in the academy. You can't panic when you're stuck or have debris on you. It's beneficial to have a calm collected mind. But that doesn't mean your heart won't be racing, no matter who you are it might be.
We had a guy on our team we called it the dog maze it was series dog houses put together with all types of barriers we went in a quater of the way through blacked out and our team leader forgot to mention they didnt handle small tight dark places well froze up wouldnt move we were stuck for 25 minutes till they got the houses seperated they dropped out the next day my T.O ran us through hell we started with 33 ppl by the end of our training our gtad class dropped to 13. My T.O was my cousin but honestly i got special treatment he came at me harder than the other recruits i still remember his foot on my bk doing pushups in full gear and pks demanding 15 more pushups ontop of the 35 i had already done tbh i thought about quitting until my uncle and grandfather got ahold of me at the time i didnt like any of them looking bk im glad they pushed me so hard and basically told me i wasnt allowed to quit thats not language that was used i dont think im allowed to repeat what was actually said lol
There’s a guy on my department that’s actually afraid of heights.. He teaches himself to do his best to push through his fear so he can accomplish the job. But if you can avoid not climbing ladders are going up high without getting in trouble he will definitely do it.
I appreciate this upload. I've been wanting to join the fire service for years and have watched all of your videos. Several of them more then once. Throughout my journey I have decided that I want to get into wildland firefighting. I think I will use that to get my foot in the door for a forestry career. This video helped me and at the perfect time. Thank you.
You hit the nail on the head my friend ! I hope your viewers save this post and listen to every word. In my 35+ years as a civilian and military firefighter I could not agree with you more. I believe the best thing the fire service has done is incorporate EMS into their duties, it has brought in a group of people who have the emotional, social and mental capabilities you have touched on here. When I started the old guys did not accept EMS very well ( to put it kindly), but I can see it was a good fit. You are a brave man my friend to take on this page my friend!
wow #5 hit different, i remember on one of my rides during emt the lieutenant was having a conversation in the kitchen and alot of the stuff he was saying had me like wtf? Eventually we went on a call for chest pain before we even got there he said "this guy took some kind of drug." When we arrived he asked the kid if he had taken any drugs and he kept saying no. Once we were on the rescue he asked him again and told him no one was going to arrest him and we need to know to be able to treat him, and i coudnt believe the kid actually admitted to taking something. This really showed me how powerful experience really is.
Absolutely. Sometimes all it takes is getting someone into a different atmosphere to get them to answer questions. Also goes for kids answering with their parents around, however, it always isn't practical to separate a child...depends on age and situation of course.
The first time that I’ve heard an honest take on the occupation. I left the organization primarily due to the overall lack of balance in my life. I loved the physical elements and the people, I hated the overall lack of separation from work. I’ve worked at three different agencies and came to the same conclusion with each of them. It was a tough decision but I never regretted it. I was grateful for the opportunity, but realized it wasn’t the organization; it was me. It was a hard pill to swallow but It gave me a stronger appreciation for everything that I had in my life before donning the uniform.
I was in the fire service as a volunteer and seasonal firefighter from 1995-1999, then as a full-time professional from 2000-2018. I retired out as an engine Captain due to a broken back, blown out knee, and PTSD sustained in the line of duty. It was an amazing career that probably shortened my life by at least a decade. I’ve lost many former colleagues to cancer, and about the same number to suicide. This video is the real deal, if you’re considering a fire service career, pay attention.
Spot on! In regards to #7, I tell new recruits that you will have that one call early in your career that will tell you if you can emotionally handle this job or not. Our best day is someone else's worst day of their life. Hopefully, we can be there and turn things around for them. Often times, that doesn't happen. Thanks for the well thought out video.
Starting my EMT career with school in two weeks. I was an animal welfare officer previously, and I handled that trauma fine. Do you think it translates? (State assists during fires, car accidents etc.)
I absolutely love your channel. I’m in Ohio myself down in Columbus. Heading to the academy myself after leaving the military and realizing a desk job is not for me in the civilian world. Thank you for all these videos. I watch them all day, every day while at work now. Very insightful and absolutely helpful. Both my grandfathers retired from the CFD so time to carry on the legacy.
Was in the service for 28yrs. And every one of these issues you bring up is spot on. Very well stated. Fire service is very rewarding. But, you sacrifice a lot over your career. I loved every year.
One you missed, as a son of a 21 year veteran I knew what I could expect as a firefighter. I just began training yesterday for the CPAT and am working on getting shape. But what was missed or can be added on to one of the points, not being willing to adapt. Though evolution is slow in department work it does change and training never stops. Over a course of the last 14 years I have seen changes not in gear, and ways of doing things, but also it’s ever changing in commands and crews.
My husband was a captain with CalFire, he retired last year. It felt like his job was the third part of our marriage. So many days and weeks I felt like a single mom. I'd hear a little about the hellush calls to help him, and would be haunted by them. Please do another video talking about maritial and family stress.
I was a volunteer for almost ten years. I lost interest in it and stayed on the department longer than I should. Changed jobs and got married during that time, and just wasn’t the same. Then had to deal with some of the negative people and the “super firefighters” that were in my county. It’s just wasn’t worth having to deal with all that and not get paid for it...
I think the toll it can take on a marriage & family is worth mentioning. I think a lot of FFs have a second job or side hustle. In my husband’s case, he worked at two departments and we have been married 24 years…as much as I love him and admire his work ethic and how he’s provided for us all these years, many of them were HARD. Many reasons you listed above go into this stew as well- I remember one stretch where he was unable to save an infant and also had to see two children dead from a car collision. It is heartbreaking to see what it does to the families and for me, it’s heartbreaking to see what it did to my husband. Just go into this honorable and difficult field with eyes wide open. Excellent advice in your video!
I’m currently a 3 year fireman. And you must take care of yourself. Spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically. It drains you no matter how tough or weak someone is. I don’t drink much. I barley drink. And if I do it’s just light beer. Many fireman I know are borderline alcoholics. And then smoking as well plays part. I stay in shape. Don’t over train tho. That’s worse. I believe balancee is key. Like all things in life. Don’t drink too much and don’t smoke. Stay in shape and take your rest days seriously. Rest days are very important. Catch up on sleep when you can. It is vital. Regardless. It’s a rough career. Just do your best. It’s not for everyone
Thank you for posting. I'm 39, every career test, my college, said I should be a Fire Fighter... but.... I always worried about the pros and cons. You laid it out
Thank you for sharing ❤my son recently expressed interest in becoming a firefighter EMT and so I thought I’d look into positive videos and realistic honest videos kinda letting you know what it all entails so he continues and becomes excited and confident while he is on his journey to become one love your channel!!!!!
I lost a long time family friend from a heart attach and then died while driving a car. Took 5 p.os and coroner to come to his house and tell his wife. Bless you guys for what you do everyday
Been a volunteer firefighter for 31 years total. I have seen dozens and dozens of volunteers become career fire service personnel. You are absolutely correct in all your seven points. My son and my oldest daughter were volunteers. Now my youngest has just been hired by a suburban FD in MA. I am happy to say that she will do fine in the fire service based on all your "bullet points". Great video.
I really appreciated this video. As prior military the sleep part doesn’t bother me, I’ve done movements where I could sleep for less than an hour at a time before I had to get up and hump 5miles. I can see the nutrition part because plenty of the FF I’ve been around haven’t been in the best shape which I can’t understand. Authority is something that nearly every job has but surprisingly it’s common all over, some people just don’t understand that you have to do your part before you can take the leadership position.
I don't think I could be a fire fighter. I'm emotionally detached and often fragile and have mental health issues as it is, so I respect the hell out of you guys for being able to do a job as rough as this. Few people can.
I was expecting him to bring up physicality. Was hoping to know how much of it is involved. Kind of surprising it did not make the list but I guess it's one of those things that goes without saying.
I've played around with the thought of trying my hand as a firefighter over the years... You hit the nail on the head when you mentioned the reactions to, and in and of itself, Tragedy... Not sure I could take it.. I found this video very helpful, thanks for taking the time to post. Cheers, you guys are the real life heroes
My grandfather was a fireman for 40 plus years and this video matches up with a lotta things he told me about the fire service but that being said I’m so thankful I grew up with a grandfather and uncle that worked at the same station the bond all the firemen/women shared was truly an incredible thing to watch
Well, Firefighting is NOT my choice of careers. I can't imagine some of the horrors they have witnessed. I have a cousin who is a retired Firefighter. You fight what I fear and have my eternal respect and gratitude.
Spot on. Did 23 years on FDNY, on a lighter note, we had a class visit the firehouse, I asked one of the boys what do you want to do when you grow up? The kid said be a fireman!!! My Capt leans in and tells him you can’t do both kid!!! LOL. I guess you can put that as 8, you have to have a good sense of humor, if you can’t laugh at the kitchen table you’re not gonna make it!
Thank you for this video ! I am trying to become a Firefighter, I worked a long time in healthcare and have a high interest in fitness. I feel like these things fit well together for the job. I want to help people the best I can. Thank you for your service.
Just signed on for my EMT certs. Hoping to get into the fire academy after that. But hearing about number 7 is actually giving me pause now that I think about it. Might have to sit down and think about this more. But I’m hoping that my resolve to join stays strong. Thanks for this video, it definitely gave me insight into the difficulties of the fire service.
@@outboardgull5285 Yes. I became a wildland firefighter. It’s hard work and stress. Daily PT with my crew, and a lot of classroom sessions with difficult lessons. Just last week, my captain was telling me about how a hazard tree that he wanted to fall, but didn’t have the certs for, ended up falling on and killing another firefighter later on. It’s a dangerous life, with tragedy all around us. But the work we do can help save communities and the livelihoods of people. It’s worth it.
So far I LOVE it, I’m a “volunteer” and started it not thinking I’d be paid- found out after I started that we do get paid per diem (per call, we get 1 hour pay minimum for showing up to a call wether we go out or not!)
I swear.. this guy is a legend 🔥♥️ one of things that i noticed and i really liked is.. that he could talk without stop 🔥✨ like.. without cuts in the video… this shows that this man knows so well what he talking about 🤝🏻 … my hat is off for you sir ✨ thank you so much for all these informations ♥️🔥✨🧑🚒
This year started with a 3am call to a structure fire. Hoarder tendencies caused the fire, both residents escaped, none of the animals survived. Carrying a dead cat out of the house was the toughest moment I've had in my life in years (two legged victims are easier for me to deal with emotionally). Great video!
I'm in South Africa, just failed my physical yesterday, but was encouraged by the assessing firefighters to try again early next year cause I was extremely close to passing. I'm definitely training harder and definitely trying out again. I've always wanted to be a firefighter and we have way too few women on the service.
My cousin is a captain on a local fire department. Went and did that for awhile loved it. Will be a volunteer firefighter for as long as I can love it.
I am a kid and I really want to be a firefighter to help people. We once had our shed catch on fire from something and the firefighter came up to me and said “you know kid you can be a hero too if you just believe” I have looked up to that person ever since that happened and I know the chances where I could die but I wanna look back a see that I had saved someone’s life.
If you aren’t mechanically inclined you may have a problem. Chainsaws, hydraulics, high pressure air systems, motors of all kinds, boilers, electrical equipment, all manner of household appliances etc. at some point you will have to deal with all these things and more. When you’re on a roof expecting to vent and can’t figure out why the K 12 started just fine at the foot of the ladder, you’ll learn the true meaning of on the job learning!
The hardest part for me was dealing with seniority. I came on late in life at 49 years old. The 10 month academy was rough having to deal with younger people yelling like idiots. Once I made it through it got a little easier but young officers can be very trying especially since many of them have little life experience outside of the fire department. I'm still learning to just keep quiet and just listen. The hardest part is I'm not learning as much as I would like because I have yet to meet a firefighter that is a good teacher/instructor/role model. They are great firefighters but not that great at teaching and sharing their knowledge.
Let' call a spade a spade. 49 is super late to get on. Most established career departments with the call volume to give you the experience you're looking for wouldn't hire you at 49. I know people that are eligible to retire before the age of 49. I'm not necessarily saying it's entirely too late. What I am saying is every fireman with real time on will tell you firefighting is a young man's sport. It's entirely unrealistic for you to get on the job (or I'm assuming maybe volunteer) at almost 50 and expect to relate to a lot of people. Someone at the age of 29 could have 13 years experience if you include junior firefighter, and they are two decades younger than you. Just try to find someone with some maturity and experience, but do no expect them to have the life experience you have. You'll relate solely on the fire service. Sometimes you have to teach yourself as well.
@@flextefitness4954 not saying you can't do it older. But there are tremendous advantages to starting it young. Few other careers where you can earn a lifetime pension, healthcare, and other great retirement benefits at under 40yo.
My great great grandfather was chief, my great grandfather was battalion chief, my dad is a private at a tac house. I’ve done multiple 24s with him, and now I am just waiting for the next class. IFD legacy!!!
I retired after 20 years from a major FD. I built homes on my days off and made a LOT of money. That's not why I choose the job. It was a great job, rewarding and occasionally extremely sad. I liked the steady income and health insurance and a decent retirement benefit. The last few years were hard to stay there as the pay was very low compared to what I made building homes. Its a great young mans job, I stayed on the medic truck 17 of those years !
Very good information told in a very thought out and personal way. Retiring this summer after 25 years in the fire service and agree with all that you said. Thanks for sharing.
Do you have any personal advice for someone is trying to become a firefighter? (I am a 19 year old girl and I am applying to my local fire academy.) God bless and thank you for your service!
Thank you, I am a junior EMT firefighter and it's nice to see from your point of view and not just the same things people say every day to me. I am the only girl in the class so they all think because I am a girl I can't handle the mental part of the job
Hey Brooklyn, thanks for the kind words! FYI... Some of the best EMTs/Medics I've worked with and learned from have been women. So you just keep pushing forward.
I’m about to head to my local community college for fire science and am getting the same comments from friends/family, it’s not fun but i use it as just another reason to keep going and show myself that i do have what it takes. We got this!
This is spot on I just joined my local fire company it’s 100% volunteer so I’m not in it for the money! I just do it because I like to help people! thank you for sharing this video!
Coming up on 42 years in the fire service. You are spot on on all of your reasons. I wish all of you the best if you choose this career but understand the challenges you will face along the way. Stay safe and do your best to look out for one another and yourself too!
@@chilltime4878 I'm good. I started at 15 as a volunteer FF/EMT. Was a Fire Marshal (Inspector & Investigator/LEO) for 30 years. Now in the Emergency Management and Special Ops side of the house as a non-uniformed member. I'll let the younger guys carry on the heavy lifting for now. All the best to all!
Great job. I am a 28 year veteran of the fire service and fully agree with you. I cringe when I see any fire service videos as I did when I saw this one. I was pleasantly surprised.
I’m nearing my 15 year mark in the fire service, and April will mark 10 years as a career... I must say this video is spot on. I appreciate your ability to keep it simple and tell the truth. It’s not Hollywood, but it is the best job in the world. With your permission, I’d like to reference and use this video with new people, or perspective members of my volunteer department. I feel like it will answer a lot of questions up front. Stay safe!
Hey Patrick, thanks for the kind words. Absolutely, I’d be honored if you used it as a reference! I created the channel to essentially bring more great people into the fire service by giving them advice and an honest look at what they’re getting into. Thanks again! Stay safe!
Thank you for this. I am 51 years old and I have my test in 10 days. Written first and then physical. I’m really looking forward to this and here at the same time hearing number seven, it’s very sobering. I’ve already given that a lot of thought over the years yet hearing it from you, it’s different. I don’t think it’s a dealbreaker, just something good to be aware of. Thank you very much for the video and information.
I joined my vollie hometown Dept at 15, grandpa was a vollie, all I ever wanted to do. I loved it, at the station after work and on weekends, everything was great till I started it as a job. Once I HAD to be there for 24 it wasn’t fun anymore.
PTSD drove me out after 12 years, I have made somewhere between 3500 and 5000 ambulance runs as a paramedic. YOU don't choose to be a firefighter, it chooses you. 7 months after I became a Professional Fire Fighter I was promoted to the driver. of the first out Engine company. I never made a mistake. For being a Fire Fighter/Paramedic I have seen every form of human misery known to man. I have seen things that no one should ever half to see in their life, from crib deaths to two men slamming the ground at 220 mph in a twin-engine Cessna to being decapitated with a 12g. shotgun,[3 times] I will take this to the grave with me. And meds don't help and neither does talking about it. You get PTSD and you have got it for life.
It was a really nice (albeit sad) change to see the positive and meaningful comments to this post. There's usually so much negativity and pettiness in youtube comments. Compassion fatigue/burnout and PTSD are harder to treat than to prevent--and prevention requires lots of resources and effort. As a mental health professional, I've noticed a pattern in friends and colleagues who worked as social workers, EMTs, volunteer firefighters, etc, that they've said it's the tragedies involving children that often scar them for life and cause to retire.
Thank you man. I’ve been thinking of becoming a volunteer firefighter but don’t know if I should do it full time. I still have a year but thank you this really helped!
Rookies have it difficult for sure, fitting in with the old guys, no sleep, fatigue, and the pranks on rookies. I saw it as an initiation like a gang. It’s challenging but extremely fun. I was a paid volunteer. I was great at the empathy and talking with ppl that were distraught. I crawled in mangled cars and held hands, prayed and talked to ppl while they were cut out of the car. I loved the ppl. The kids were a tad hard to deal with but stuffed animals helped with them.
Pretty honest assessment for someone from the outside looking to get in. Ive been on since 06 and the last part is cumulative. Take care of your self early and don’t bury your feelings after the call. And if you have a family, they go on this career ride with you. Make sure they are on board with this journey.
Reason #8 - Don’t expect to fight fires every shift. Only 10-15% of the calls are fire related. The rest are all medical.
Not nyc bro the rest of the country are wannabes come to Apple u kids want to fight fires
You guys are getting 10-15? were getting 5
ya my grandpa is chief of a station and usually when i see him, he gets 1-5 calls a night
That is if you live in the US, most if not all countries in Europe separate ambulance services and fire services, and ambulances are instead attached to hospitals and their own stations as opposed to being stationed at fire stations
@@johnrobs7556 nyc is as bad as LA why would anyone wanna go to that shithole
Little tid-bit on sleep: you don’t ACTUALLY sleep at the station. Even if you don’t get calls, your body sleeps differently because you subconsciously are waiting for a call. You never truly reach that good-good REM sleep.
this is me for sure. at home I seep fine but most of the time at the station its like I'm laying awake waiting on tones until I pass out.
Truer words were never spoken.
So true. Wasn’t until the Fitbits etc came out that we finally realized how bad we sleep on the “good” nights!
I agree. I find even without any calls whether I’m on the engine or the ambulance I do not sleep that great
please tell this to my wife
The fact that you shouted out for dispatches was honestly amazing. Been dispatcher for 7 years and it's been hard lately. No weekends for 2 months, the shift work. The stressful calls and then going straight home and trying to wind down and sleep. The shoutout was much appreciated. Dispatching for me can be more difficult at times than volunteer fire or ems. I've done all three and dispatching pays the most but also takes a tole on your health.
Great dispatchers are so underrated. I actually just posted another video today giving props to the dispatcher who was doing a great job. I wish more people recognized how hard that job is.
As a firefighter, thank you for everything you do for your community. We couldn't do our jobs without you. You're the one that takes the call and tells us where we're needed. We may know a house is on fire, but if we don't know where to go we can drive around and look for it but that would take way too much precious time. You may be behind the phone and radio, but you're the Frontline in getting us where we need to be, so thank you.
I know it isn't much, but I hope you know one more person out there appreciates what you and other dispatchers do. Thank you.
@@gote406 they have a hard job. I recently transitioned into a law enforcement officer and I’ve been able to advocate for dispatchers at city council meetings. It’s a hard job and very under appreciated. It’s interesting moving into a position as an officer. You get a handshake and a thank you everywhere you turn. That was definitely not the case as a dispatcher. I’ll definitely take up that role and show the dispatchers that work with me appreciation.
The stress of how a lot of the callers talk to you. I’ve been guilty of that on occasion too. So sorry. After answering all the questions and giving as much detail as possible whatever help you requested arrives and has absolutely no idea what they’re there for. Makes it seem like such a waste of time to provide the answers for you. Again… I’m so sorry. You’re just doing your job to the best of your ability. Thank You for that❣️
You hit the nail on the head sir. Especially the tragedy issue. Thinking of the family is what gets me too. We had an 8 year old male drown while on vacation in our city. The hardest part was knowing his family would travel back home with an empty seat and going back to their house with his bicycle in the driveway, his socks still hanging out of his dresser drawers, his toys still scattered throughout his room, etc. Thank you for posting this video.
ya, that sounds like a terrible call!
my community lost 300 homes to a wildfire this year. and yet, what I really feel affected by was the child with a brittle bone disorder, who couldn't play without the risk of breaking bones.
This job is definitely for the strongest of heart. How many times will you see this happen over the lifetime of a career as a firefighter...
My dad was a volunteer firefighter from before I was born. It got into my bloodstream. As a result of a TBI when I was 21 and resulting seizures I haven’t been able to take part in it. He told me some stories about such things. But what really got me was a friend of mine I work with who told me that being from as super small community as he is that the chance of having to respond to a call concerning a close friend or family member is fairly high. He has an aged father who is not in good health. He was saying that if he had to respond to his own father’s call and it ended badly would’ve been the last call he thought he could’ve made. Another friend of mine who was on another neighboring towns department told me about responding to his best friend who had a fatal MVA. It affected him so badly that was the last call he ever made. Even being from a small department, you still will see bad things happen fairly often. That’s just a part of the business. PTSD will affect members of Public Safety. I know it wasn’t spoken about in the fire service especially until lately. It’s a risk you HAVE TO know could happen being in public safety line of work.
I'm sorry to hear that man. Have you reached out for help or talked to someone? It helps a lot.
I heard this story about a young man who was going to be a firefighter. He passed fitness tests, psycho tests, was healthy and excited to be a firefighter. The last step he had to take to fulfill his dream was to sign the contract. Some time before signing the contract, he had time with friends. During the interview, one of his friends mentioned: Do you realize that you will be taking dead bodies out of crashed cars? The young man was stunned, it was as if he realized for the first time that he would have to deal with a tragedy. Turns out that was the reason he didn't sign the contract.
When I was a teenager, I met a new guy on my job who said he used to be a firefighter. He told us that he quit after taking his first highway wreck.
There was an injured kid whose foot was severed during the crash. He said he knew it wasn't for him when he heard the kid ask his mother (who was critically injured) *"Mommy where's my shoes?"*
@@robertwilliams5015do these people not go on ridealongs? As a explorer I’ll go on ridealongs to see if I like it.
@@robertwilliams5015wow
Well its a terrible sight..but after 22 years in fdny.
I never saw that so...I did see drug over doses
Damn that's grim. Definitely not for everyone however if I were in such a predicament I'd hope someone would help.
Just passed my physical and written exams then have my polygraph and I’ll be starting academy in March! Super stoked.
Well done! Good luck at your new job
Congratulations! Good luck going forward!
I have my interview on the 8th!
Nice bro!!!
@@jaredbrun6333 wish you luck dude!!
Been a first responder for 21 years. This guy speaks the truth. Everything he said was right on the money!
Thank you!
Never do it for the money always for the people
@@xoxowendy60 well obviously you want to be paid but yeah I agree with what you are saying lol
i want to do it for the schedule!
20 year fire service member here. For those of you who want to get back to sleep faster when up at that early morning call and be more rested, get a weighted blanket for your bunk. I fall back asleep faster than ever before especially after a call that has your adrenaline pumping.
That's a really cool tip, my boyfriend is going to be a firefighter, I'll make a mental note to get him one
I unfortunately don't have what it takes to be a firefighter myself but I found the next best thing i can do.
I work in cleaning and repairing firefighter uniforms and gear to make sure they have what they need to do their job.
It's like my boss put it
"we help heroes be heroes"
Support your local fire fighters
Edit: i appreciate the love and support y'all have shown towards me but i regret to inform that i no longer work at that job anymore. The company was bought out and i do not agree with the direction they are taking things.
Oh well, but keep supporting your local firefighters
Thanks for what you do!
Why can't u be a firemen
@@kaushalpatel8610 I've talked to firefighters so I know the commitment it is. Unfortunately it's too much for me to handle
@@kaushalpatel8610 the time commitment should not be understated. You will spend a large portion of your life living at the fire station having to be ready for any emergency.
I know of fire fighters who have been immediately fired because of being intoxicated when they needed to be ready. I know it sounds like a small thing (don't drink) but the stress does get to you. Constant lack of sleep, constant exposure to tragedy, constantly having to sacrifice time with loved ones to be ready to serve your community. Honestly, I have huge respect for anyone who can carry that load.
Not to mention the health risk. Sure not every fire is a huge burnout but on the occasions where it is, you are risking your life and safety to protect others. And the smoke takes it toll. Many career fire fighters end up having to fight cancer.
The company I work for was founded by a man who made it his life mission to make it safer for fire fighters to do their work. That's why our company makes a strong effort to clean and repair their uniforms and gear so they have what they need to do their job.
Sadly the man who started it died last year after fighting cancer himself.
Support your local fire fighters, they give so much of themselves for our communities.
Thank YOU for what YOU do. Cleaning and repair of gear is so important. Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!
I am a retired Firefighter from the UK , and can relate to a lot you are saying , it’s so true, Respect to you all from over the Pond ....
Hello mate I’m 17, what’s the best thing I can do to give me the edge over other applicants?
H hi Mike how do you be fire from
@@bensaunders7469 hows it going ?
I have 2 sons in the service and one on the way. I know they experience all you say. Thanks for putting it out there
Have a strong chin. Be able to take criticism without falling appart
true!
@Jerry Gallo lmao i just see "true!" then "bullshit". cracked me up ngl
Jerry clearly doesn't have experience in fire then, because it's absolutely true. You can't take things personally, but you have to be willing to take criticism
And grow some thick skin. Harassing can become pretty brutal especially for probies.
@@richardtaylor9798 Do you realize how terrible the logic in that is? Telling new people to grow thick skin because their surperiors are expected to harass them? Maybe the superiors should stop harassing people.
And if you are talking about teasing, that's very different than harassment.
I’m glad your #1 is so spot on. So many times I’ve heard guys talk about how excited they are to make a ton of money during fire season but that’s not what it’s about. It’s a career you choose because you have a passion for service, camaraderie, and self improvement.
Right
I honestly don’t think it’s about the money.
money matters too
You are on point I can’t say it enough. I have been a fireman in the Houston Fire Department for twenty five years and an instructor at the Houston Community College for twenty three years. I use your videos in my lectures for our entry level students to reinforce the pros and cons of our career and the decisions we make in like. Don’t stop you are doing a great job!
Thanks Mark!
I’m thinking about MAYBE joining the Missouri city fire department! Hopefully the Houston area is good
#8: If you're a slob and don't clean up after yourself, this may not be the job for you.
Tell that to the members at my house. You definitely aren't supposed to snitch your housemates out but a lot of mine don't keep it clean.
Ouch. That hits too close to home. I am trying to get better about picking up after myself though.
Ouch. That hits too close to home. I am trying to get better about picking up after myself though.
Definitely some valid points. Where things like nutrition, health, etc. is concerned, al lot of that is based on choice. You have a choice to make: A pizza from Pizza Hut or grilled Chicken, rice, and veggies? Soda from the department soda machine or water/ice tea/other? Recliner time or an hour in the gym? We could go on and on, but again, it's about choices.
definitely! we're all products of our daily decisions.
#7 Is why I gave it up after 15 years. Especially after being on the other side as one of those family members. No matter how much you think you do you never understand the grief until experiencing it for yourself. After that I just couldn't handle seeing distraught family members and holding it together until I got back sometimes hours later to the station and go into my room and cry and cry.
Thank for your service and giving it all you could. I hope you've found some peace these days.
like car crashes ?
Best job in the world. It ain't for everybody
Naw, mane. Police is the best job.
Nah man LARPING as a Marine now that's the best.
Police is the best
@@jeffbaumann244 - Where I woeked, a shitload more cops became firemen than the other way around. Much respect for your trade, I do not have the temperament for your job.
@@deandre8432 nooo we don't like to fuck people's life just because
#7 is exactly right.. we all process some of the gruesome things that we see in different ways, but to see and hear family members drop to their knees screaming for their loved ones lost, that's so much worse..
This is the one that gets me. I want to be the person to help make those tragic situations as manageable as possible & do the work to help the situation. I don't know how seeing those tragedies will effect me though.
Being paged out at 0500 to assist with a medical call. Being there, performing CPR, and seeing the wife react when she is told her husband has died. Clearing off the scene and then going home, take a shower and head off to your day job.
@@mikekollross8810 same here man, it sucks
i generally feel like I'm not an extremely empathetic person, so I'm not sure if I'm the right fit for a firefigther or exactly the opposite
my dad works as a part-time firefighter and a lot of what you talked about I recognize those nights when the searcher beeps all night long and you don't get any sleep and only since I was a little girl have I wanted to be a firefighter because I want to help I even want to follow in my father's footsteps and here where I live, there have been a shortage of people at the station. my local fire station is too small for people to live or sleep in but those who are firemen or women usually live near the station and I know that the firemen see a lot of things that can affect a person so I always give my dad a hug every time he comes home and asks how it went to show that I care about him I'm not very good at speaking the words out that I want to say but I can feel compassion for everyone that I meet. You firefighters are the best and you are the Tru heroes love from a small village in Sweden.❤ 🚒
You hit this right on the dot man. Being a volunteer firefighter for 7 years and also exposed to firefighting since being a toddler, ive grown to understand how the fire service really works. Its very hard sometimes, the things you see are sometimes more than what the average person will ever see in their entire lifetime. In fact, just a few weeks ago, we were called to our local landfill for an equipment accident, and when we arrived, we found a 21 yr old male severed in half by a reversing dumptruck that pinned him between a wall. It was one of the worst things ive ever seen in my life. It takes guts to take stuff like that in and not completely break down. But anyways, thanks again for making this vid and completely selling the point perfectly!
That pun was crazy
Dark sense of humor should be a requirement for sure.
Living at the station sounds like regular military service
As someone studying for the fire industry, and fire department this video was very helpful some things here I notice in myself but I am willing to change parts about myself to do my best as a future fire fighter.
Same dude.
How’s it going?
I'll be like this
Can u help me out I got some questions
@@trentonbird7647 yeah, what questions do you have?
I am almost in my senior year. My dream job was to become a firefighter. I was thinking about what I am going to do with my life. I thought getting into firefighting would be easy, but I will still try because I actually want to help and be a hero.
Never try to be a hero that’s how u get urself killed in dangerous jobs
@@nickberatta7506 Some people are willing to take that risk and they understand the consequences.
Heroes also get their fellow firefighters killed. This job doesn't need Heroes..it need competent team members. Hero crap are for the kids.
When I chose firefighting as my dream job, I was always fascinated by fire. I would often play around with it, which led to me getting three second-degree burns. However, what truly inspired me to pursue this career was the overwhelming desire to save lives. There is nothing quite like the feeling of seeing someone you rescued run off safely with their family. When you become firefighter, you become a hero the moment you sign up for the job. You understand the risks involved and are willing to put your life on the line to protect others. It's a title that holds great meaning and carries immense responsibility. I will continue to pursue my dream of becoming a firefighter, knowing that my actions and choices can have a profound impact on the lives of others. I know that It's important that I maintain the highest level of commitment, skill, and professionalism, ensuring that I can make a difference in every situation I encounter. Iam bound to make mistakes as I am just like you guys but i will learn from whatever problems life throws at me. (if i can) *srry if i wrote a long one*
@@axzs9184 You sound like you should be an arsonist. Not a firefighter.
Great explanation. I was worried it was going to be like “you have to be macho to be a firefighter!”But what you said is true. Thank you for this realistic post about our career.
😅
😂😂😂😂😂
I'm in the Marine Corps and in the process of getting out, and firefighting does not sound too different from what I do already. I'm excited to get started and join the firefighting force.
You're right, it's not that different. Show up when you're supposed to, know what you're doing, do what they tell you, then do whatever else needs done and they think you hung the moon.
I was also in the Corps ('69-'71, 3/7 1st MARDIV; was an 0341) and having that in your history shows you can work with others, under duress, and you're used to the chain-of-command thing. Veteran's preference points that were added to test scores at the time helped but don't know if that's still common. Did 34 yrs with Ventura County Fire and couldn't have asked for a better career. Been retired 15 and still can't believe they pay me just to keep breathing!
Hope you give it a shot, bud.
Had the amazing opportunity today/tonight to get a walk through a fire house, try on some equipment and check out a little look into the life of a volunteer/full time firefighter and all I can is props to you ladies and gentlemen doing this on a daily basis I can’t imagine what it’s like to do this everyday in and out. I e got nothing but respect for all of you out there and thank you so much for your service it’s a big sacrifice a lot of people don’t think about twice or realize what you do for the community
Very good video. I am a 30+ year veteran of the fire service and I have seen people come and go. For the most part the good ones stay. Sometimes the good ones leave and the bad ones stay. I have been blessed to work with mostly great firefighters.
If I had to add to this list, it would be those who think they are going to be heroes are going to be very disappointed and most likely a dangerous member of their crew. Everyone from the chief of the department to training to the rank and file firefighters are part of each and every life saved. You will never do anything alone; thus, you will never be a hero.
After 30 plus years in both vol. and career your take on the job and the reasons not to become a firefighter is spot on. However, it is the greatest job ever as long as you have a heart to serve others FIRST.
All good points, its been a great career for me, over the years.. The tragedy has by far become the hardest part, after 25+ years I've seen more death and tragedy than I ever care to see. I've always been very sympathetic with the family and friends but the deaths have become as common as filling up gas, just another another thing in life.
I became concerned for my own mental health when I realized I was becoming nonemotional about deaths, it weighs on you year after year, don't be afraid to reach out for help.
You left out two important points claustrophobia and fear of heights (retired FF 31 years of service )
why claustrophobia?
@@09764312468 confined space training. A lot of crawling. A buddy of mine had to work through his while in the academy. You can't panic when you're stuck or have debris on you. It's beneficial to have a calm collected mind. But that doesn't mean your heart won't be racing, no matter who you are it might be.
We had a guy on our team we called it the dog maze it was series dog houses put together with all types of barriers we went in a quater of the way through blacked out and our team leader forgot to mention they didnt handle small tight dark places well froze up wouldnt move we were stuck for 25 minutes till they got the houses seperated they dropped out the next day my T.O ran us through hell we started with 33 ppl by the end of our training our gtad class dropped to 13. My T.O was my cousin but honestly i got special treatment he came at me harder than the other recruits i still remember his foot on my bk doing pushups in full gear and pks demanding 15 more pushups ontop of the 35 i had already done tbh i thought about quitting until my uncle and grandfather got ahold of me at the time i didnt like any of them looking bk im glad they pushed me so hard and basically told me i wasnt allowed to quit thats not language that was used i dont think im allowed to repeat what was actually said lol
There’s a guy on my department that’s actually afraid of heights.. He teaches himself to do his best to push through his fear so he can accomplish the job. But if you can avoid not climbing ladders are going up high without getting in trouble he will definitely do it.
@@dayshonsmith1485 i’m afraid of heights sort of and I’m interested in becoming a fire fighter what should i do to be less afraid i guess?
I appreciate this upload. I've been wanting to join the fire service for years and have watched all of your videos. Several of them more then once. Throughout my journey I have decided that I want to get into wildland firefighting. I think I will use that to get my foot in the door for a forestry career. This video helped me and at the perfect time. Thank you.
Awesome man, thanks for the kind words..., that sounds great, good luck getting into wildland firefighting...that’s a TOUGH job!
You hit the nail on the head my friend ! I hope your viewers save this post and listen to every word. In my 35+ years as a civilian and military firefighter I could not agree with you more. I believe the best thing the fire service has done is incorporate EMS into their duties, it has brought in a group of people who have the emotional, social and mental capabilities you have touched on here. When I started the old guys did not accept EMS very well ( to put it kindly), but I can see it was a good fit. You are a brave man my friend to take on this page my friend!
wow #5 hit different, i remember on one of my rides during emt the lieutenant was having a conversation in the kitchen and alot of the stuff he was saying had me like wtf? Eventually we went on a call for chest pain before we even got there he said "this guy took some kind of drug." When we arrived he asked the kid if he had taken any drugs and he kept saying no. Once we were on the rescue he asked him again and told him no one was going to arrest him and we need to know to be able to treat him, and i coudnt believe the kid actually admitted to taking something. This really showed me how powerful experience really is.
Absolutely. Sometimes all it takes is getting someone into a different atmosphere to get them to answer questions. Also goes for kids answering with their parents around, however, it always isn't practical to separate a child...depends on age and situation of course.
The first time that I’ve heard an honest take on the occupation. I left the organization primarily due to the overall lack of balance in my life. I loved the physical elements and the people, I hated the overall lack of separation from work. I’ve worked at three different agencies and came to the same conclusion with each of them. It was a tough decision but I never regretted it. I was grateful for the opportunity, but realized it wasn’t the organization; it was me. It was a hard pill to swallow but It gave me a stronger appreciation for everything that I had in my life before donning the uniform.
I was in the fire service as a volunteer and seasonal firefighter from 1995-1999, then as a full-time professional from 2000-2018. I retired out as an engine Captain due to a broken back, blown out knee, and PTSD sustained in the line of duty. It was an amazing career that probably shortened my life by at least a decade. I’ve lost many former colleagues to cancer, and about the same number to suicide. This video is the real deal, if you’re considering a fire service career, pay attention.
Spot on!
In regards to #7, I tell new recruits that you will have that one call early in your career that will tell you if you can emotionally handle this job or not.
Our best day is someone else's worst day of their life. Hopefully, we can be there and turn things around for them. Often times, that doesn't happen.
Thanks for the well thought out video.
Starting my EMT career with school in two weeks. I was an animal welfare officer previously, and I handled that trauma fine. Do you think it translates? (State assists during fires, car accidents etc.)
I absolutely love your channel. I’m in Ohio myself down in Columbus. Heading to the academy myself after leaving the military and realizing a desk job is not for me in the civilian world. Thank you for all these videos. I watch them all day, every day while at work now. Very insightful and absolutely helpful. Both my grandfathers retired from the CFD so time to carry on the legacy.
i'm 16 currently in columbus, aspiring to be a firefighter. How was the academy?
How’s it going? I’m currrently enlisted almost about to get out.
Was in the service for 28yrs. And every one of these issues you bring up is spot on. Very well stated. Fire service is very rewarding. But, you sacrifice a lot over your career. I loved every year.
Hey Andy, thanks for the kind words AND for 28 yrs of service!
So True, Kids walking, Christmas, Birthdays, list goes on.......... I will not miss the job. I will miss the guys 5 more to go ( 32 total)
Totally agree with the harder part being seeing the family and friends reactions
One you missed, as a son of a 21 year veteran I knew what I could expect as a firefighter. I just began training yesterday for the CPAT and am working on getting shape. But what was missed or can be added on to one of the points, not being willing to adapt. Though evolution is slow in department work it does change and training never stops. Over a course of the last 14 years I have seen changes not in gear, and ways of doing things, but also it’s ever changing in commands and crews.
As long as they don't go to those stupid European style helmets, everything will be okay
My husband was a captain with CalFire, he retired last year. It felt like his job was the third part of our marriage. So many days and weeks I felt like a single mom. I'd hear a little about the hellush calls to help him, and would be haunted by them. Please do another video talking about maritial and family stress.
Women are so selfish...
@@supra95ful Feeling alone isn’t selfish.
@@supra95fuland men aren’t? Biggest joke of the century
Cal-fire = big bucks and the retirement alone$$$
@@supra95fuli agree honestly
The very first question 🤔 im going to a volunteer fire department and no one gets paid so its obviously not for the money😂
haha
same lmao
So far, I have 36 years in the volunteer fire service...the beauty is, I can retire at full pay anytime...
I was a volunteer for almost ten years. I lost interest in it and stayed on the department longer than I should. Changed jobs and got married during that time, and just wasn’t the same. Then had to deal with some of the negative people and the “super firefighters” that were in my county. It’s just wasn’t worth having to deal with all that and not get paid for it...
Who knows, you may be doing it in order to then become a firefighter and get paid.
Thank you for posting this! One of the more honest and direct approaches I have seen. #7 hurts the most.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I think the toll it can take on a marriage & family is worth mentioning. I think a lot of FFs have a second job or side hustle. In my husband’s case, he worked at two departments and we have been married 24 years…as much as I love
him and admire his work ethic and how he’s provided for us all these years, many of them were HARD. Many reasons you listed above go into this stew as well- I remember one stretch where he was unable to save an infant and also had to see two children dead from a car collision. It is heartbreaking to see what it does to the families and for me, it’s heartbreaking to see what it did to my husband. Just go into this honorable and difficult field with eyes wide open. Excellent advice in your video!
On my 2nd week of my academy course and so far I absolutely love it. I feel blessed to have discovered my calling.
I’m currently a 3 year fireman. And you must take care of yourself. Spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically. It drains you no matter how tough or weak someone is. I don’t drink much. I barley drink. And if I do it’s just light beer. Many fireman I know are borderline alcoholics. And then smoking as well plays part. I stay in shape. Don’t over train tho. That’s worse. I believe balancee is key. Like all things in life. Don’t drink too much and don’t smoke. Stay in shape and take your rest days seriously. Rest days are very important. Catch up on sleep when you can. It is vital. Regardless. It’s a rough career. Just do your best. It’s not for everyone
Thank you for posting. I'm 39, every career test, my college, said I should be a Fire Fighter... but.... I always worried about the pros and cons. You laid it out
Thanks for the video man! I’m a volunteer trying to go full time and this helped a lot! I’m due for EMT school in March and I’m super pumped
Glad I could help! Good luck!
My training captain would say "TSAFE"- THIS SHIT AINT FOR EVERYONE
Thank you for sharing ❤my son recently expressed interest in becoming a firefighter EMT and so I thought I’d look into positive videos and realistic honest videos kinda letting you know what it all entails so he continues and becomes excited and confident while he is on his journey to become one love your channel!!!!!
I lost a long time family friend from a heart attach and then died while driving a car. Took 5 p.os and coroner to come to his house and tell his wife. Bless you guys for what you do everyday
Been a volunteer firefighter for 31 years total. I have seen dozens and dozens of volunteers become career fire service personnel. You are absolutely correct in all your seven points. My son and my oldest daughter were volunteers. Now my youngest has just been hired by a suburban FD in MA. I am happy to say that she will do fine in the fire service based on all your "bullet points". Great video.
Don’t reinvent the wheel. This is what I was told for trying to meet standards and have meaningful daily training. Slugs use this as a shield.
I really appreciated this video. As prior military the sleep part doesn’t bother me, I’ve done movements where I could sleep for less than an hour at a time before I had to get up and hump 5miles. I can see the nutrition part because plenty of the FF I’ve been around haven’t been in the best shape which I can’t understand. Authority is something that nearly every job has but surprisingly it’s common all over, some people just don’t understand that you have to do your part before you can take the leadership position.
I don't think I could be a fire fighter. I'm emotionally detached and often fragile and have mental health issues as it is, so I respect the hell out of you guys for being able to do a job as rough as this. Few people can.
Iam a fire fighter for Abbeville sc county station 1 vol of 50 years my dad was a fire fighter and my daughter one and my son I law one
I was expecting him to bring up physicality. Was hoping to know how much of it is involved. Kind of surprising it did not make the list but I guess it's one of those things that goes without saying.
I've played around with the thought of trying my hand as a firefighter over the years... You hit the nail on the head when you mentioned the reactions to, and in and of itself, Tragedy... Not sure I could take it..
I found this video very helpful, thanks for taking the time to post. Cheers, you guys are the real life heroes
thank you!
One needs the state of mind that you're there to help and you are not responsible for what had just happened. Great video
My grandfather was a fireman for 40 plus years and this video matches up with a lotta things he told me about the fire service but that being said I’m so thankful I grew up with a grandfather and uncle that worked at the same station the bond all the firemen/women shared was truly an incredible thing to watch
Well, Firefighting is NOT my choice of careers. I can't imagine some of the horrors they have witnessed. I have a cousin who is a retired Firefighter. You fight what I fear and have my eternal respect and gratitude.
Spot on. Did 23 years on FDNY, on a lighter note, we had a class visit the firehouse, I asked one of the boys what do you want to do when you grow up? The kid said be a fireman!!! My Capt leans in and tells him you can’t do both kid!!! LOL. I guess you can put that as 8, you have to have a good sense of humor, if you can’t laugh at the kitchen table you’re not gonna make it!
Hahaha, I just became a retained firefighter and in some ways I've never grown up
Thank you for this video ! I am trying to become a Firefighter, I worked a long time in healthcare and have a high interest in fitness. I feel like these things fit well together for the job. I want to help people the best I can. Thank you for your service.
Just signed on for my EMT certs. Hoping to get into the fire academy after that. But hearing about number 7 is actually giving me pause now that I think about it. Might have to sit down and think about this more. But I’m hoping that my resolve to join stays strong. Thanks for this video, it definitely gave me insight into the difficulties of the fire service.
Did you end up going in? I'm looking into it right now and interested. Just doing some searching on what to expect
@@outboardgull5285 Yes. I became a wildland firefighter. It’s hard work and stress. Daily PT with my crew, and a lot of classroom sessions with difficult lessons. Just last week, my captain was telling me about how a hazard tree that he wanted to fall, but didn’t have the certs for, ended up falling on and killing another firefighter later on. It’s a dangerous life, with tragedy all around us. But the work we do can help save communities and the livelihoods of people. It’s worth it.
@@hectorarias9516 congrats im 16 and plan on becoming a firefighter
I thought this was going to be just another dork FF video about the fire service but speaking as a 20yr career fireman this guy nailed it.
Nods to you, dude. Thanks for your service even if we live opposite sides of the country, it's still human helping humans
Yes he did
thank you!
thank you
thank you!
So far I LOVE it, I’m a “volunteer” and started it not thinking I’d be paid- found out after I started that we do get paid per diem (per call, we get 1 hour pay minimum for showing up to a call wether we go out or not!)
I swear.. this guy is a legend 🔥♥️ one of things that i noticed and i really liked is.. that he could talk without stop 🔥✨ like.. without cuts in the video… this shows that this man knows so well what he talking about 🤝🏻 … my hat is off for you sir ✨ thank you so much for all these informations ♥️🔥✨🧑🚒
Thanks for the video man. I’m 16 and hoping to become a firefighter when I’m older.
That's awesome, keep working towards your goal!
I’m a welder, I just entered the EMT program to get my cert. Hopefully I can land a spot at the academy the first time applying.
As a 18 year volunteer firefighter i see both pro's and cons of this video.
This year started with a 3am call to a structure fire. Hoarder tendencies caused the fire, both residents escaped, none of the animals survived. Carrying a dead cat out of the house was the toughest moment I've had in my life in years (two legged victims are easier for me to deal with emotionally).
Great video!
I'm in South Africa, just failed my physical yesterday, but was encouraged by the assessing firefighters to try again early next year cause I was extremely close to passing. I'm definitely training harder and definitely trying out again. I've always wanted to be a firefighter and we have way too few women on the service.
On target with this. I too had no family or friends when I got on. This is a very accurate account of what I have learned.
My cousin is a captain on a local fire department. Went and did that for awhile loved it. Will be a volunteer firefighter for as long as I can love it.
This is very helpful! I'm considering becoming a firefighter and these are really good things to think about. Thank you!
I am a kid and I really want to be a firefighter to help people. We once had our shed catch on fire from something and the firefighter came up to me and said “you know kid you can be a hero too if you just believe” I have looked up to that person ever since that happened and I know the chances where I could die but I wanna look back a see that I had saved someone’s life.
The chances of you dying on the job is really rare if you’re not either wildland or working back east where buildings are older
Follow and have faith in your training. It’s there to keep you and everyone around you alive and properly solve the problem at hand.
Be a hero, but always keep calm and think well of your actions.
@@mrfancypants29 Have faith in the equipment as well. It’s amazing how much fire fighting technology has advanced.
Pretty cringe if he called himself a hero
If you aren’t mechanically inclined you may have a problem. Chainsaws, hydraulics, high pressure air systems, motors of all kinds, boilers, electrical equipment, all manner of household appliances etc. at some point you will have to deal with all these things and more. When you’re on a roof expecting to vent and can’t figure out why the K 12 started just fine at the foot of the ladder, you’ll learn the true meaning of on the job learning!
The hardest part for me was dealing with seniority. I came on late in life at 49 years old. The 10 month academy was rough having to deal with younger people yelling like idiots. Once I made it through it got a little easier but young officers can be very trying especially since many of them have little life experience outside of the fire department. I'm still learning to just keep quiet and just listen. The hardest part is I'm not learning as much as I would like because I have yet to meet a firefighter that is a good teacher/instructor/role model. They are great firefighters but not that great at teaching and sharing their knowledge.
Let' call a spade a spade. 49 is super late to get on. Most established career departments with the call volume to give you the experience you're looking for wouldn't hire you at 49. I know people that are eligible to retire before the age of 49. I'm not necessarily saying it's entirely too late. What I am saying is every fireman with real time on will tell you firefighting is a young man's sport. It's entirely unrealistic for you to get on the job (or I'm assuming maybe volunteer) at almost 50 and expect to relate to a lot of people. Someone at the age of 29 could have 13 years experience if you include junior firefighter, and they are two decades younger than you. Just try to find someone with some maturity and experience, but do no expect them to have the life experience you have. You'll relate solely on the fire service. Sometimes you have to teach yourself as well.
Police, firefighter, military are all careers to get into young.
@Law V never too late apparently. 1 guy got on at 60 and another at 55 .
@@lawv804 I just joined the army at 37 and I agree. Age is a problem in every way.
@@flextefitness4954 not saying you can't do it older. But there are tremendous advantages to starting it young. Few other careers where you can earn a lifetime pension, healthcare, and other great retirement benefits at under 40yo.
My great great grandfather was chief, my great grandfather was battalion chief, my dad is a private at a tac house. I’ve done multiple 24s with him, and now I am just waiting for the next class. IFD legacy!!!
I want to become a firefighter, to help people who are in trouble, to have stable life. I want to help people with firefighting.
That’s great!!
Ok....get ready.
30 years in and I still love it...all of it!!...your video is on point!!
I retired after 20 years from a major FD. I built homes on my days off and made a LOT of money. That's not why I choose the job. It was a great job, rewarding and occasionally extremely sad. I liked the steady income and health insurance and a decent retirement benefit. The last few years were hard to stay there as the pay was very low compared to what I made building homes. Its a great young mans job, I stayed on the medic truck 17 of those years !
You really explain this in the most perfect way really. Your videos really help me with starting out
Very good information told in a very thought out and personal way. Retiring this summer after 25 years in the fire service and agree with all that you said. Thanks for sharing.
Do you have any personal advice for someone is trying to become a firefighter? (I am a 19 year old girl and I am applying to my local fire academy.) God bless and thank you for your service!
Thank you for your service.. even if we're on opposite sides of the country.. you're a human saving humans
Thanks Glenn! Congratulations on your upcoming retirement!
I'm a firefighter myself (greetings from Germany!) and agree to what you said. Very well made video! Greetings and stay safe!
Thank you, I am a junior EMT firefighter and it's nice to see from your point of view and not just the same things people say every day to me. I am the only girl in the class so they all think because I am a girl I can't handle the mental part of the job
Hey Brooklyn, thanks for the kind words!
FYI...
Some of the best EMTs/Medics I've worked with and learned from have been women. So you just keep pushing forward.
I’m about to head to my local community college for fire science and am getting the same comments from friends/family, it’s not fun but i use it as just another reason to keep going and show myself that i do have what it takes. We got this!
@@isabellamariaarevalo1084 Yes!! We need to stay together and build everyone up, our families just need to know how strong we are 💪🏼
This is spot on I just joined my local fire company it’s 100% volunteer so I’m not in it for the money! I just do it because I like to help people! thank you for sharing this video!
Coming up on 42 years in the fire service. You are spot on on all of your reasons. I wish all of you the best if you choose this career but understand the challenges you will face along the way. Stay safe and do your best to look out for one another and yourself too!
Thanks, you too!
42 years ? Bro, get out while you still have your health. Hope you can adjust because it sounds like your full identity. Good luck!
@@chilltime4878 I'm good. I started at 15 as a volunteer FF/EMT. Was a Fire Marshal (Inspector & Investigator/LEO) for 30 years. Now in the Emergency Management and Special Ops side of the house as a non-uniformed member. I'll let the younger guys carry on the heavy lifting for now. All the best to all!
"Preach it brother " much respect from Gonzales Ca. Saludos and Respecto Hermano.
Great job. I am a 28 year veteran of the fire service and fully agree with you. I cringe when I see any fire service videos as I did when I saw this one. I was pleasantly surprised.
Hey John, thank you for the kind words... i appreciate that coming from a 28 year veteran!
What a honest opinion to the high and lows been a firefighter I bet this echoes the world over..
I’m nearing my 15 year mark in the fire service, and April will mark 10 years as a career... I must say this video is spot on. I appreciate your ability to keep it simple and tell the truth. It’s not Hollywood, but it is the best job in the world. With your permission, I’d like to reference and use this video with new people, or perspective members of my volunteer department. I feel like it will answer a lot of questions up front.
Stay safe!
Hey Patrick, thanks for the kind words. Absolutely, I’d be honored if you used it as a reference! I created the channel to essentially bring more great people into the fire service by giving them advice and an honest look at what they’re getting into. Thanks again! Stay safe!
Can you please tell me everything that is required to become a firefighter?
Your Firefighters get the same treatment as RNLI crew
Thank you for this. I am 51 years old and I have my test in 10 days. Written first and then physical. I’m really looking forward to this and here at the same time hearing number seven, it’s very sobering. I’ve already given that a lot of thought over the years yet hearing it from you, it’s different. I don’t think it’s a dealbreaker, just something good to be aware of. Thank you very much for the video and information.
I joined my vollie hometown Dept at 15, grandpa was a vollie, all I ever wanted to do. I loved it, at the station after work and on weekends, everything was great till I started it as a job. Once I HAD to be there for 24 it wasn’t fun anymore.
You nailed it brother, spot on , stay safe, from Canada.
Thank you, you too!
PTSD drove me out after 12 years, I have made somewhere between 3500 and 5000 ambulance runs as a paramedic. YOU don't choose to be a firefighter, it chooses you. 7 months after I became a Professional Fire Fighter I was promoted to the driver. of the first out Engine company. I never made a mistake. For being a Fire Fighter/Paramedic I have seen every form of human misery known to man. I have seen things that no one should ever half to see in their life, from crib deaths to two men slamming the ground at 220 mph in a twin-engine Cessna to being decapitated with a 12g. shotgun,[3 times] I will take this to the grave with me. And meds don't help and neither does talking about it. You get PTSD and you have got it for life.
You’re a hero
I have seen first hand the one about the baby
It was a really nice (albeit sad) change to see the positive and meaningful comments to this post. There's usually so much negativity and pettiness in youtube comments. Compassion fatigue/burnout and PTSD are harder to treat than to prevent--and prevention requires lots of resources and effort. As a mental health professional, I've noticed a pattern in friends and colleagues who worked as social workers, EMTs, volunteer firefighters, etc, that they've said it's the tragedies involving children that often scar them for life and cause to retire.
Thank you man. I’ve been thinking of becoming a volunteer firefighter but don’t know if I should do it full time. I still have a year but thank you this really helped!
Rookies have it difficult for sure, fitting in with the old guys, no sleep, fatigue, and the pranks on rookies. I saw it as an initiation like a gang. It’s challenging but extremely fun. I was a paid volunteer. I was great at the empathy and talking with ppl that were distraught. I crawled in mangled cars and held hands, prayed and talked to ppl while they were cut out of the car. I loved the ppl. The kids were a tad hard to deal with but stuffed animals helped with them.
I'm about half way through my fire 1 certification Training and I'm loving it so far. Next year I'm going to do my level 2 and EMT 1. Super pumped.
That is awesome! good luck and keep up the good work!
@@mike_pertz thanks man!
@@mike_pertz One bit of madness is when Manchester firefighters lost their beds for a couple of years
Pretty honest assessment for someone from the outside looking to get in. Ive been on since 06 and the last part is cumulative. Take care of your self early and don’t bury your feelings after the call. And if you have a family, they go on this career ride with you. Make sure they are on board with this journey.