A career in firefighting is both a meaningful and a rewarding one.
While the adventure of firefighting attracts people to the profession, you need courage and dedication to pursue a career as a firefighter.
That’s because firefighting is more than battling blazes.
When disaster strikes, firefighters are the first to arrive at the scene. These courageous individuals risk their own lives to rescue people from burning buildings.
Becoming a firefighter is a great way to serve your community. But, working as a firefighter is challenging, both physically and mentally. It can also be emotionally exhausting.
Before pursuing a career in firefighting, you must understand the realities and responsibilities of being a firefighter. In this article, we’ll share a few important things that you must know about firefighting:
#1 Firefighters Must Maintain a High Level of Fitness
Firefighting is a demanding job that requires agility, strength, and endurance.
Recent research suggests a link between higher physical activity and improved occupational performance in firefighters.
Increased levels of physical fitness and activity also contribute to improved musculoskeletal health.
Firefighting requires a high level of muscular strength, endurance, and explosive power, as well as anaerobic and aerobic fitness.
Firefighters have to wear a heat suit respirator whose weight could be as much as 25 kg and carry self-contained working tools while performing difficult rescue operations.
They also have to engage in physically demanding tasks. These include carrying and using heavy tools and climbing ladders and stairs, sometimes in awkward positions.
Therefore, maintaining peak physical condition is essential for firefighters. Strength training and regular exercise can help you maintain a high level of physical fitness.
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#2 Fire Exposes Firefighters to a Host of Chemicals, Mainly Carcinogens
During fire suppression operations, firefighters are exposed to a large number of chemicals due to combustion. They are also passively exposed to chemicals at the fire station and the truck.
Exposure to toxic substances at fire scenes occurs through dermal absorption, ingestion, or inhalation.
Years of research demonstrate that most chemicals are endocrine disruptors and carcinogens.
Occupationally, firefighters come in contact with significant concentrations of carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, hydrogen chloride, dichlorofluoromethane, benzene, and particulates.
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Exposure studies reveal that firefighters absorb toxic substances even with self-contained breathing apparatus.
Several studies report that polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), formaldehyde, butadiene, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are the most concerning chemicals.
Researchers, however, are particularly worried about firefighters’ exposure to PFAS, a large class of fluorinated aliphatic chemicals. PFAS are a matter of concern because they are highly toxic, persistent, and bioaccumulative in human tissues.
Studies link elevated levels of PFAS with adverse health effects, such as kidney and testicular cancers, mesothelioma, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Firefighters are at an increased risk of developing these cancers compared to the general public.
Firefighters are exposed to PFAS, also known as forever chemicals, through aqueous film forming foam (AFFF). This firefighting foam is used to put out flammable liquid fires.
Besides the firefighting industry, the use of AFFF extends to military and shore facilities.
In its recent publication, the Mesothelioma Veterans Center reveals that AFFF is linked with cancer in military firefighters and other veterans.
Twenty-four states have already banned or restricted training with this firefighting foam.
Thousands of firefighters have filed lawsuits against AFFF manufacturers.
Defendants named in AFFF lawsuits are Chemours, DuPont, 3M, and Tyco Fire Products. TruLaw explains that these companies are accused of failing to warn service members about the risks associated with AFFF.
As for the recent AFFF lawsuit update, Chemours and DuPont have agreed to pay $1.185 billion, and 3M reached a settlement of $10.3 billion.
#3 Working Hours are Irregular
Firefighting isn’t a nine-to-five job. It’s different from that.
Firefighters work lengthy shifts, sometimes for 24 hours or longer than that.
In rare cases, shifts are extended to 48 hours.
However, such lengthy shifts are followed by 24 to 48 hours off in a row.
Those who combat wildfires work for longer than that, i.e., for days or weeks.
Another thing to keep in mind is that you will be expected to work on weekends and even during holidays.
Given the unpredictable nature of the job, you might have to miss family events, holidays, and other important occasions.
You can take time off during these days, but the chances of leaves getting approved are less, especially if you’re a newbie.
Irregular or unpredictable working hours make it difficult for firefighters to develop or maintain relationships. Clear communication can help navigate relationship challenges.
However, lengthy shifts and mandatory overtime make it hard for firefighters to address conflicts.
#4 Traumatic Experiences Can Lead to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Post-Traumatic Growth
People who are repeatedly exposed to traumatic events, such as firefighters, are at an increased risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Studies reveal that the prevalence rate of PTSD in firefighters is between 1.9% and 57%.
As per a recent study, Portuguese firefighters are particularly vulnerable to PTSD owing to the extensive fires and wildfires that take place in Portugal.
Sleep issues, emotional exhaustion, diminished alertness, attention and cognitive performance, and anxiety are among the common mental health outcomes observed in firefighters in Portugal.
While trauma results in PTSD, it can foster positive outcomes.
One study demonstrates that experiencing traumatic events can lead to post-traumatic growth. The psychological process after experiencing a trauma is known as post-traumatic growth.
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The process of enduring and overcoming adversity influences post-traumatic growth.
Deliberate rumination to understand the traumatic events that take place also leads to post-traumatic growth in firefighters.
To sum things up, firefighting is one of the most noble professions in the world. But you will have to sacrifice a lot if you want to serve your community.
If you’re planning to pursue a career as a firefighter, focus on physical fitness. Exercise regularly and do strength training to maintain peak physical condition.
To succeed in your career as a firefighter, mental toughness is required. Focusing on the positive and working with a mentor can help cultivate mental resilience.
Not to forget, firefighters undergo extensive training, so be prepared for that.
