What is a volunteer firefighter?

Great Answer

Professionally Researched. (What's this?)

A volunteer firefighter is a public servant who protects his or her community against harm from fires and other dangerous emergencies. According the the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics at BLS.gov, firefighters are usually the first group to respond to motor vehicle accidents.

Duties

Volunteer firefighters carry and attach hoses to water sources, climb ladders, rescue trapped persons from burning buildings, and use tools and equipment to clear debris or blocked doorways, according to BLS.gov.

Qualifications

The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics states that firefighters should be brave, willing to work with others, be in good physical shape, and be able to make fast decisions based on training and good judgment. VolunteerFD.org states that the minimum age of volunteers varies by department.

Pay

VolunteerFD.org states, "Volunteer firefighters do not get paid, but they can get reimbursed." Reimbursement pay is "tax-free," and is payment for training time and expenses, as well as for time spent responding to emergencies. The amount of money paid for reimbursement is determined by each fire department.

Prospects

BLS.gov states that available paid careers as a firefighter are expected to grow rapidly, with heightened competition to secure these jobs. According to VolunteerFD.org, becoming a volunteer firefighter will make a person an "attractive candidate" to employers searching for firefighters for paid positions, in that volunteers have an advantage in training and work experience.

Getting Started

For someone who is interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter, VolunteerFD.org states that potential volunteers should contact their local fire department for more information about registration and additional qualifications.

Source:

U.S. Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Handbook, 2010-11 Edition

Bureau of Labor Statistics: Teacher's Guide: Helping People - Fire Figther

Volunteer FD: How to Become a Volunteer Firefighter

More Questions. Additional questions in this category.

ANSWERBAG BUZZ