Today I am sitting at my typewriter writing about jobs as most of the land surrounding my home in Southern California chars. The fires here are unbelievable, as is the strength of the wind. As we traveled home from an impromptu-but much needed (and I have to say well deserved!) weekend vacation this past weekend, we drove through waves of smoke that had traveled to the coast, carried along by winds that knocked our car around on the road as though it were literally made of tin.
The post today isn’t about the fires or the wind, but about the countless-and untiring- efforts of firefighters who spend hours-if not days-on the job, trying to get the burning under control.
So today I’m giving some basic background information about the career of firefighting, and I’m also taking a moment, and asking you to take one as well, to think about those who are out there protecting people they don’t even know and trying to save our homes and land.
Firefighters work in dangerous environments in order to protect citizens, property and the environment. Some work for pay while others are volunteers. Hours are typically quite long and irregular, with firefighters remaining at the station in shifts that run for several days. While at the station, firefighters remain on call while also taking care of equipment, cooking dinner, cleaning the station, studying and training and keeping their bodies fit by exercising.
In order to become a firefighter, you will generally have to pass a written exam along with participating in various physical exams that require you to prove physical stamina, strength and agility. Classes in firefighting training are available at various colleges throughout the country. While not always required, these classes can help round out your education. Firefighters are also trained at an academy, which entails both book learning as well as physical instruction so that students can practice the skills that will be needed when out on the job.
Firefighting is a physical job that requires mental stamina, endurance and the ability to think quickly while on your feet and involved in a dangerous situation. Salaries range greatly depending upon the locale.
If you are interested in learning more about becoming a firefighter, contact your local community college, firefighting academy or your county to obtain more information.
And today, while many homes and lives are threatened in Southern California as these wildfires march on, keep the firefighters who are hard at work protecting our state and yours in mind.