Firefighter

Civil Service, Fighting Fire, Fireman, Careers, Fire

In This Guide

A career firefighter is an extremely dangerous profession. It takes countless hours of physical, psychological, and emotional training to be successful and avoid injury. While a career dedicated to civil service is honorable and highly appreciated, it is sometimes hard to relate to and understand. Here are a few ideas that will help to support, inspire, and encourage someone dedicated to fire and rescue.

He or She Might Be Thinking About...

Am I trained and prepared to fight fire?
Can I TRUST my Captain and fellow firefighters with my life?
Am I emotionally prepared to handle a loss of life?
How do I know when a scene is unsafe for entry?
What do I do if I don't feel comfortable following my Captain into an untamed fire?
How can I become a better firefighter?
What can I do to help teach my friends and family fire safety?
How can I help my wife/husband feel safe and not worry when I am on call?
Can I financially support my family as a career firefighter?
Will my family be taken care of in the event of a tragedy?
How do I manage a work-life balance with a non-traditional work schedule?
Will my family be proud and supportive of my career choice?
How do I mentally detach myself from the job at hand?
Death is a reality.
There is potential danger on every call.
What are the long-term health risks of firefighting?

Words That Might Be Encouraging

You are extremely brave.
I admire your passion and commitment to a life of service.
You are incredibly selfless.
Thank you for everything that you do for our community.
We are grateful for your service and bravery.
I'd like to become more active in the community as a volunteer. What can I do to help?
Your community is very lucky to have such active fire and rescue personnel.
Your department's response time is incredible. Keep up the great work.
I'd love to help your department grow. Is there any equipment that youn guys need? I could organize a fundraising committee or event.
You have such a king, loving heart.
I bet the kids at the elementary schools love when you guys come visit.
What an exciting and adventurous career path!
I'm proud of you.
You're a big part of my life. Please stay safe.

Words That Might Be Discouraging

Firefighters don't make very good money.
I don't know how you do it.
Firefighting is for adrenaline junkies that are only worried about working out and looking cool.
You're crazy.
Don't most firefighters die of cancer?
I would pass out in a fire.
Are you sure you want to make a career out of firefighting?
I'm sure your family is worried sick about you.
I'm so glad my spouse has a 9-5 desk job.
Firefighting is so dangerous.
What does your family think about you working as a firefighter?
What made you want to be a firefighter?
You're just doing it for the attention.
I'm sure you get a lot of people wanting to date you.
Firefighting is for macho men.
Most women don't make successful firefighters.
Firefighting is too dangerous for women.