Firefighter

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JOB DESCRIPTION

Firefighting requires skill in combating, extinguishing, and preventing fires: answering emergency calls; and operating and maintaining fire department equipment, apparatus, and quarters. The work involves extensive training activities. Firefighters are required to learn and participate in operating apparatus and performing hazardous tasks under emergency conditions, all of which may require strenuous exertion under handicaps like smoke and cramped surroundings. Although firefighting and rescue work are the most difficult and responsible areas of work, a significant portion of time is spent inspecting premises for fire hazards, pre-fire planning, and hydrant inspections.

Drilling and station duties round out the duties of the firefighter’s position. In addition to firefighting, the fire service has recently entered a longer realm of public service, including handling incidents involving hazardous materials, heavy rescue work, and paramedic and ambulance service.

• Attend training courses and read and study assigned materials related to firefighting and fire prevention.
• Respond to fire alarms with the company; operate pumps, and auxiliary equipment; lay and connect hose; maneuver nozzles and direct fire streams; raise and climb ladders; and use extinguishers, axes, bars, and hooks, and other equipment.
• Ventilate burning buildings by opening windows and skylights or by cutting holes in roofs and floors.
• Remove persons from danger and administer first aid.
• Perform salvage operations by placing salvage covers, sweeping water, and removing debris.
• Drive and operate motor-driven equipment under special instructions and limited conditions.
• Accept the responsibility to act in a position of higher rank.
• Relay instructions, orders and information, and give location of alarms received from the dispatcher.
• Exercise precautions to avoid injury while performing duties.
• Responsible for the safekeeping and proper care of all fire department property.
• Participate in drills and other fire department training activities as directed and become thoroughly familiar with all equipment.
• Perform assigned fire inspections and checks of buildings and structures for compliance with fire prevention ordinances.
• Perform assigned housekeeping duties at fire station.

Being a firefighter demands people who can perform many functions. Thus firefighters have to have certain knowledge and skills that allow them to function effectively in the position. Some of the requirements are listed below.

• Ability to meet minimum physical fitness standards.
• Ability to climb ladders and work at considerable heights.
• Ability to learn a wide variety of firefighting and rescue duties within a reasonable working test period.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the public.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.

Training and experience equivalent to:

• Must be 18 years of age.
• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to meet minimum physical fitness standards.
• Valid Alabama driver’s license with the ability to be insured by the city’s liability insurance carrier.

This job description indicates in general the nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities and other essential functions (as covered under the ADA) expected of an incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities duties or responsibilities required of an incumbent. An incumbent may be asked to perform other duties as required. This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions and position responsibilities.

Nothing in this job description restricts management’s rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Incumbent must be able to perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation.