Firefighter

Firefighter

This is skilled firefighting work in combating, extinguishing and preventing fires and providing rescue services to protect life and property. Work also involves driving equipment when specifically assigned on shift and routine maintenance of fire department equipment, apparatus, and quarters. Employees under this class perform hazardous tasks under emergency condition which may require strenuous exertion under such handicaps as fire, heat, smoke and cramped surroundings.

Although firefighting and rescue work are the most difficult and responsible areas of activity, a major portion of the time is spent studying methods and techniques of fire prevention, suppression and basic and/or advanced life saving techniques, studying and perfecting the operation of fire and rescue equipment and apparatus, and in performing routine duties in the care and maintenance of fire department property and equipment.

Work is usually performed under the command of a superior officer. Work is reviewed in progress and upon completion. The Firefighter- shall be committed to the mission, vision and values of the City and Department and demonstrate such through ethical conduct, community stewardship, individual initiative and responsive service. The Firefighter- shall demonstrate technical skills through effective communication and collaboration, proper use of team resources, personal accountability and responsibility.

The job description is intended merely to illustrate the duties that may be assigned to persons assigned this title. It should not be interpreted to describe all the duties that may be required of persons holding a position assigned this title or to limit the nature and extent of assignments a person may be given.

Primary

Job Duties:

(Essential functions are identified by an "*")

• Receives and responds to routine and emergency telephone calls.
• Response to fire alarms and other emergency calls; controls and extinguishes fires; protects life and property.
• Selects hose and nozzle, depending on type of fire, deploys hose-lines and directs stream of water or chemicals onto fire; positions and climbs ladders to gain access to upper levels of buildings or to assist individuals from burning structures; creates openings in buildings for ventilation or entrance, using axe, chisel crowbar, saw and other power equipment; and, may deactivate utility services to prevent explosions or other fire extension.
• Responses to emergency situations; drives emergency vehicles to scene of emergency; operates apparatus on scene.
• Provides efficient and immediate emergency care to the ill or injured at the scene of an incident and during transport; operates emergency care equipment.
• Conducts patient assessments; administers appropriate basic or advanced life support care at the site of emergency; performs such activities as patient assessment, artificial respiration, cardiopulmonary resuscitation; treating wounds, abrasions, and shock; applies splints; patient extrication; maintain airways, and administers oxygen.
• May perform advanced medical care, including endotracheal and nasotracheal insertion, chest tubes (needle aspiration/catheter), and IV cannulation.
• Reports vital information regarding care and condition to medical personnel receiving patient.
• Participates in salvage operations, such as removing and covering furniture, removing water and cleaning debris.
• Performs overhaul operations to ensure that the fire is completely extinguished.
• May performs duties of fire inspector as assigned; conducts building inspections for fire hazards; examines blueprints; tests and inspects sprinkler systems, alarm systems, fire hydrants, etc.; serves notices for correction of fire code regulations; advises citizens on fire safety.
• Develops preplans that provide the most effective firefighting.
• Investigates causes and circumstances surrounding fires.
• Participates in a continuing program of training demonstrations and classes; receives training in the operation of apparatus and, when assigned, drives and operates and instruction and operation of fire and a variety of vehicles.
• Provides fire station tours for the public; answers questions and…