Becoming a Modern Day Fireman

What is a fireman?

At first look this is quite a silly question and the answer to this, for most people is obvious, a fireman is someone who puts out fires. However, if you want to become a fireman today then you need to fully understand the modern day role of the fireman and their role within society.

During the selection process the recruitment will look for a candidate who can demonstrate is an in-depth understanding of the modern fireman. The role of a fireman has grown significantly over the last ten if not twenty years and is much more than simply putting out fires.

A fireman will now be expected to attend a number of different types of fires, chemical incidents, Road accidents, rescuing animals are to name but a few of the more recognised tasks. However, the role of the fire service has expanded into the realm of educating people in an attempt to prevent fires rather than just extinguishing.

Many fire brigades now carry out talks and demonstrations at schools, college and local community events. There are also a number of TV adverts which try to make people aware of the dangerous of faulty fire alarms. Their aim is to educate the public so that they take great care in their daily lives to prevent any problem in the first place.

Pay as a fireman can also vary depending on the area you are working in and the type of rank you reach. Start off as a fireman you can expect to earn anything up to £26,000 and as you go through the ranks your pay will increase accordingly. Once you have made your way up to the position on area manager you can expect to stat on around £50,000.

Race and diversity now plays an important part of the selection process as the fire service adheres to the race relations amendment act 2000. You must demonstrate that you demonstrate this during your selection interview.

You will also be required to sit a number of written tests, followed by various physical tests such as the ladder climb. The last part is the one on one interview and if you are successful you will begin your training. Everyone always seems to have the most concerns about this part but you must remain calm and make sure you have prepared.

A good way to do this is by getting a family member of friend to ask you a number of questions. This may seem weird at first but you will soon get used to. Remember if you can’t answer it in front of your friend how are you going to do it in front of the recruitment staff.