For those of
you who are interested in joining the fire service, or who may be
new to it, here's some advice from a rookie:
 Get
in as much training as possible; you can never learn too much or too
many tactics. The more you know the better you will be able to handle
a situation.
Test, Test,
and re-Test. The sooner you start studying and testing for the civil
service exams the farther ahead you will be in acquiring that position
as a fire fighter.
Study as much
as possible on your own. If you can learn on your own it shows initiative
and that you can work well independently. However, we work as a
team. Sometimes you will be called upon to perform above and beyond
the call of duty. The more you know the better chances you have
for advancement.
Join a
volunteer or resident program. The hands-on knowledge you will gain
from either organization is valuable, so take advantage of it. If
you are going to college, many fire districts will give you free
room and board if you volunteer for them. Plus, the friends you
make will be everlasting, and may pay off somewhere down the road.
Be energetic,
determined, and be a team player. You will be more apt for promotion
if you can work well under pressure, show that you know your stuff,
and be willing to work well with others...no matter your differences.
Remember, you
can never know everything about fire fighting. It is a constantly
changing field, and everyday you learn something new. Be positive,
be alert, and be SAFE!
Good luck,
Jess Wardwell
P.S. Take a look at my summer fire photos.
I'd love to hear from other
rookies about their experiences - send
me your stories and photos.
| Back
to The
Rookie Experience |
| November
2000 |
Many
of us rookies are constantly looking for new ways to better
our skills, and to get ahead in the fire service. A few tips
on how and where to acquire training. |
| October
2000 |
For
those of you who are interested in joining the fire service,
or who may be new to it, here's some advice from a rookie. |
| September
2000 |
How
to Become a Firefighter |
| Summer
2000 |
Check
out my Summer Fire Photo Gallery |
|
