Firefighters are responsible for responding to emergencies, performing fire suppression, conducting rescues, delivering emergency medical services, and maintaining equipment and facilities[1][3][5].
- Respond to fire alarms and emergencies, including fires, hazardous materials incidents, vehicular accidents, and medical emergencies[1][3][5].
- Extinguish fires using hoses, nozzles, and extinguishing agents, and operate equipment such as ladders and hydraulic tools[1][3][5][7].
- Conduct search and rescue operations to remove occupants from dangerous or hazardous situations, including smoke-filled or structurally unstable environments, often while wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as SCBA[1].
- Provide basic life support and emergency medical care to injured or ill persons until advanced medical help arrives[1][3][5][7].
- Perform ventilation operations (release heat and smoke) and place salvage covers to prevent water damage and rekindling[3].
- Drive and operate firefighting apparatus, connect apparatus to hydrants or water sources, and ensure correct pump operation[5][7].
- Participate in maintenance, cleaning, and care of fire stations, apparatus, and equipment to ensure readiness[1][5][7].
- Participate in ongoing training and drills related to firefighting, emergency medical services, hazardous materials, and equipment operation[5][7].
- Assist with fire prevention, education, pre-incident planning, hydrant surveys, and inspections within the community[5][7].
- Follow emergency response procedures such as the R.A.C.E. protocol (Rescue, Alarm, Confine, Evacuate/Extinguish) during fire incidents[2][6][8].
- Coordinate with incident commanders and report actions, conditions, and any injuries or missing persons[4].
References
- [1] Firefighter Job Description – South Metro Fire Rescue
- [2] Fire Response Procedures – FSU Safety Manual
- [3] The Professional Firefighter – IAFF
- [4] Emergency Response Plan – Ready.gov
- [5] Career Firefighter/EMT Job Description – City of Reading, PA
- [6] R.A.C.E. Fire Response Procedure – Howard University Public Safety
- [7] Duties, Functions & Responsibilities – Fire Department, Ludington MI
- [8] Fire Procedures | Emergency Management – CSUSM
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