What Every New Firefighter Should Know

The first day on the job can be difficult – and sometimes, downright intimidating. There is no doubt, the journey to becoming a firefighter is a long one, yet soon you will realize that every training and trial was worth it. A career as a firefighter is mentally and physically demanding, but it is also rich with reward.

As you embark on this new journey remember the importance of trust, tradition and service to the community, but don’t forget the most important lesson of all - respect of your fellow superiors.

Don’t worry!

Through all the ball-busting, you’ll earn your place in the circle of brotherhood. That is, if you work hard and listen to the advice of those who came before you.

Oh, and remember… you aren’t just walking into a business for a job, you’re walking into firehouse where mentorship is encouraged, respect is earned and brotherhood is valued.

But relax, we’re looking out for you.

To get you started on the right foot, we’ve compiled some useful advice from firefighters across the US:

“Listen, learn and react.”
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“Don’t ever take this job for granted, it can have really rewarding days, or it can present some of the worst days. Train hard and train often. Most of all enjoy what we do cause there’s no better job.“
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“Listen to the veterans and incorporate their experiences with what you have learned."
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“Don't be afraid to step up and volunteer."
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“Don’t join if you’re not committed. It takes a lot of commitment to be a volunteer fire fighter.”
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“Never quit."
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“Listen to the experienced people, but always keep up with the new trends."
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“Training is key."
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“The training hours are long, but stick with it because it’s worth the time you put in. But that being said, remember your family comes first, this place comes second."
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“Watch the veterans, but remember there always new technology."
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“Train .Train. TRAIN."
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“Keep your head up, Rome wasn’t built in a day. Anything you need I will help along the way do not hesitate to ask, I am always available and willing to help you better yourself."
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“Brotherhood."
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“Train hard, make it enjoyable and be safe. Don’t be a hot head and be flexible and open to change."
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“Train a lot and learn as much as you can . And to be safe."
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“Watch and listen."
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“Learn as much as possible."
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“Be on time. Early is on time, on time is late. Keep your mouth shut and do what is asked."
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“Do your job, never stop learning, learn from the senior men."
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“Two ears, one mouth - speak more than you are heard."
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“Be patient."
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“Learn all you can. This job can kill you."
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“Get involved."
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“Volunteering is a big commitment."
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“Never quit learning."
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“Know your limitations and listen to the old guys, mainly because they have survived to be old guys."
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“Listen to the old timers. Even though things were done differently 30 years ago, doesn't mean that you can't learn from it."
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“Be open minded, accepting, and confident."
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“It’s the only job you will really love."
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If you’re really looking to impress, we have included a list of 10 blogs which will help you build your knowledge of the fire industry: