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Five Steps to Becoming a Firefighter Introduction
Featured Author:
Battalion Chief Paul Lepore
Paul Lepore is a Battalion Chief with the City of Long Beach, California, Fire Department. He entered the fire service as a civilian Paramedic for the Los Angeles City Fire Department in 1985. After completing his education at the Los Angeles County Paramedic Training Institute, Lepore worked in the high impact area of South Central, Los Angeles.
Lepore was hired by the Long Beach Fire Department in 1986 and completed their 12-week academy. He spent the next two years working as a firefighter until he was promoted to firefighter/ paramedic. Lepore was promoted to Fire Captain in 1998 and is currently a Battalion Chief.
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Battalion Chief Paul Lepore
Human instinct is to run away from fire for fear of being injured or killed. Firefighters are the only ones who run toward a burning building in search of people in need of help. They are willing to risk their lives for complete strangers regardless of race, creed, color, or socioeconomic status. What is it that motivates them to do this?
Are firefighters blind to the true dangers of their job? Hardly. They are conditioned to perform even though they may be frightened or uncertain of their fate. Don’t believe for a moment that firefighters are not afraid of losing their lives. Seasoned firefighters have been in situations where they were in fear for their lives.
How can firefighters perform when the average person would be paralyzed with fear? Most firefighters will tell you it is just a matter of keeping your composure and getting the job done, coupled with outstanding training and the knowledge that you are surrounded by competent co-workers who are always looking out for you.
If your lifelong dream has been to become a firefighter, this 5-step guide will help prepare you for getting through the very hiring process.
First Step: Learn About the Fire and Rescue Service
lhayeng
9 months ago
2 comments
Hello,
Although I am up in age and have no previous firefighting/paramedic experience, I would like to finish off my career in this fascinating field. My interests would stem around wildfires and urban fire and rescue. I am 48 years of age and in relatively good shape. I would have to improve my stamina and endurance. I live in the Phoenix Metro area and would prefer to remain here.
cgolo90179
about 1 year ago
6 comments
of course, this is dangerous work, this must realy to helped. the people like to life, but I can all understand.
So is the work.