Fire Science and Safety

What does a basic operations firefighter do?

A basic operations firefighter is an entry-level firefighter responsible for providing the public with firefighting, fire-prevention training, and emergency services. They are trained to operate equipment and tools to extinguish fires, rescue people from dangerous situations, and respond to various emergency service calls, such as medical emergencies and natural disasters.

They also assist with other emergency services by securing scenes and controlling crowds. Emergency services are a vital part of their duties, and they work closely with other emergency services to ensure the safety and well-being of the public. In summary, a basic operations firefighter is a first responder who performs a wide range of duties related to firefighting and emergency services, working to provide assistance and ensure public safety.

What do firefighters do?

Firefighters are responsible for responding to emergency calls and providing firefighting and emergency services. They are trained to extinguish fires, rescue people from dangerous situations, and respond to various emergency service calls, such as medical emergencies, search-and-rescue situations, and natural disasters. 

A critical part of the team, firefighters work closely with other emergency services, including police and ambulance crews, to ensure the safety and well-being of the public. In summary, a career as a firefighter means you'll be working to provide emergency services, respond to various 911 situations, and keep people safe in their communities.

Are all firefighters paramedics?

Not all firefighters are paramedics, but many are trained as emergency medical technicians (EMTs) or paramedics. Firefighters may be required to perform essential life support (BLS) or advanced life support (ALS) services in addition to their firefighting duties. While many firefighters have medical training as EMTs or paramedics, it is not a requirement for all firefighters.

Paramedic education at Elgin Community College is part of the emergency services training program. It includes the study of their role, medical/legal considerations, ethics, EMS Systems, personal wellness, injury prevention, general patient assessment, communications, documentation, assessment-based management, and life span development. EMTs and paramedics Courses emphasize hands-on, practical applications to help prepare for employment with ambulance service companies, local governments, and hospitals. Some also work as volunteers with local fire departments, but many are career firefighters.

Is being a firefighter a promising career?

Firefighters are in demand in many parts of the world, as firefighting and emergency services are essential for public safety. Various factors, including population growth, the frequency of natural disasters, and changes in fire safety regulations, influence the demand for firefighters. Firefighting and emergency services remain a critical part of society, and the demand for firefighters will likely continue to grow as communities continue to grow and face new challenges.

Employment of firefighters is projected to grow 4 percent from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Firefighters.