To become part of the widely sought-after firefighting elites, one needs to master a set of skills before starting the application process. The competition to join this lucrative profession is stiff and to stand a chance, being pro-active in acquiring knowledge and sharpening of important skills will set you apart. The following is a list of top 5 skills you will need to acquire on your journey to becoming a firefighter.
1. Train in EMS
Emergency Medical Service skills are basic requirements for any firefighter since life or death situations are the nature of the job. The EMS body is divided into two:
• EMT: This is basic training of urgent medical services which include CPR, and administering medication among others.
• Paramedic: This is an advanced EMT which requires a Bachelor’s degree to qualify. They perform tasks such as starting intravenous lines, resuscitation, and providing advanced airway to critical patients among others.
2. Take Fire Technology Classes
While firefighters are summoned to all life-threatening scenarios, their main role is fighting fires. Fire Technology equips you with knowledge on the characteristics of fire and the science behind fighting it. This skill is a sure winner when listed in your resume on the skills section.
3. Polish Your People Skills
A firefighter career will constantly put you in contact with scared human beings. Knowing how to handle people in vulnerable situations will go a long way when handling mortal situations. To learn how to deal with people in need, you need to volunteer in various organizations such as:
• Red Cross
• Homeless shelters
• Burn camps
Not only will your compassion grow but you may come across professionals in the same line of work you are looking to join. Get in touch and learn from them.
4. Check Your Health
Firefighting requires agility and stamina, so getting your body to shape is a definite requirement. Check your diet and hit the gym to develop the physical strength that will be required on the field. A medical examination will be conducted as part of the application process, so be prepared.
5. Life Skills
Seeing that most emergency calls will be life and death situations, it is wise to polish up on some basic life skills. These include swimming or lifeguard skills, driving, and car repair among others. You should be most prepared in an emergency because people will look to you as part of the solution and not the problem.
Bottom-line
The key to getting into the firefighting business is dedication. Once you are certain about your chosen career path, get pro-active and network with the right people. Firefighter career is not for the faint-hearted, so gaining knowledge and skills of your chosen career path will go a long way in preparing you ahead of time.
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