As I spend more time in the fire service, I’ve realized that many people don’t fully understand what firefighters do beyond responding to emergencies. While the public may have a general idea of the job, there’s much more to the daily lives and responsibilities of firefighters than most people realize. That’s why I wanted my first blog post to highlight some of the lesser-known aspects of being a firefighter and provide a closer look at the dedication, challenges, and experiences that come with serving the community. Enjoy!
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1. Most Calls Are Not Fires
While many people envision firefighters battling flames when they think of the job, the reality is fires typically only represents approximately 4% of the total call volume. Firefighters are often called to assist in a variety of emergency situations, including:
Medical Emergencies – 70%
Public assist/miscelaneous – 15%
Traffic Collisions – 10%
Hazardous Material Spills – 1%
Understanding this broader role helps people appreciate the wide range of responsibilities firefighters handle every day. No one ever knows what emergency will come next when the station tones sound, so firefighters stay ready to respond at any hour.
2. Shift Work Is 24 Hours
Firefighting involves 24-hour shifts, and this commitment brings unique challenges. The demanding schedule requires firefighters to stay prepared for emergencies at any hour. Long shifts challenge them physically and mentally while strengthening the bonds they build as they train, work, and respond together every day.
3. Firefighters Carry More Gear Than You Think
One common misconception is that the only gear firefighters carry is the firefighting suit and helmet. In reality, a firefighter’s equipment is extensive and a full get-up could be very heavy including some of the following items depending on the nature of the call:
Turnout Coats – 10 pounds
Axes – 10 pounds
Hoses – 25 pounds
Breathing Apparatus – 35 pounds
Small tools and equipment – 5 pounds
Each piece of equipment plays an important role in helping firefighters work safely and effectively during emergencies. In many situations, firefighters carry up to 75 pounds of gear while responding to calls.
4. Exposure to Trauma Requires Mental Resilience
Firefighters often witness traumatic incidents that most people never experience, such as fatal accidents and pediatric emergencies. This exposure to medical traumas like requires not only physical strength but also significant mental resilience.
Fire departments train firefighters to manage the psychological stress that comes with traumatic emergencies, making mental health a top priority. Many departments now provide fully covered counseling sessions and encourage firefighters to seek support whenever they need it. Teams also hold debriefings after difficult incidents so everyone can openly discuss what happened and support one another. No firefighter should have to carry the emotional weight of these experiences alone.
5. Fire Family
despite what most people may think, firefighters spend days, nights, and even holidays together, forming bonds that resemble an extension of their families. New firefighters typically attend a rigorous 10- to 20-week academy that pushes them mentally and physically while encouraging recruits to rely on one another for support.. Taking this job means you are committed to these people, often putting your life on the line for them in critical situations. The shared experiences and sacrifices create an unbreakable connection, fostering trust and loyalty in the face of danger. There is a reason many department members refer to their peers as their brothers and sisters… because they are.
Bonus: Firefighters in the Kitchen
Interestingly, many firefighters have developed culinary skills as well. The down side of this however, is that many firefighters often develop high standards for their fellow peers cooking. These high standards paired with unfiltered comments and opinions make the kitchen a battle ground for getting crowned the ultimate cook of the shift. It is safe to say some of the most jaw dropping and truly mind blowing meals I have ever had in my life have come from the fire station. Some of the best meals I’ve ever eaten came straight from the fire station kitchen. On the other hand, not everyone belongs behind the stove, and a few unforgettable cooking disasters prove that point!
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