A firefighter is responsible for protecting life and property by responding to emergencies, including fires, hazardous materials incidents, and medical emergencies[1]. Under general supervision, firefighters perform a wide range of public safety duties such as fire suppression, rescue operations, emergency medical response, fire code enforcement, public education, and routine equipment maintenance[1].
Core responsibilities and duties include:
- Responding to fire alarms and emergency calls to prevent and extinguish fires[1].
- Administering basic life support and emergency care, including CPR, first aid, and defibrillator use[5].
- Rescuing people from hazardous or life-threatening situations, which may involve operating specialized tools, lifting and carrying victims to safety, and working in confined spaces[2].
- Operating, maintaining, and repairing emergency vehicles, fire pumps, aerial ladders, and related apparatus[3].
- Participating in technical rescues, such as vehicle extrication, water rescues, and hazardous materials incidents[1].
- Inspecting buildings and fire alarms for code compliance and conducting fire hydrant surveys[4].
- Engaging in fire prevention, public safety education, and pre-incident planning activities within the community[3].
- Maintaining and cleaning assigned fire stations and equipment[3].
- Participating in continuous professional training in firefighting, hazardous materials handling, and emergency medical services[3].
- Completing detailed reports and documentation of emergency responses and routine activities[2].
Firefighters must possess strong physical stamina due to the physically demanding and hazardous nature of the job, such as carrying heavy equipment and working in extreme environments[1]. Effective teamwork, technical proficiency with a range of equipment, clear communication, critical thinking, and the capacity to perform under stress are essential personal qualities[6].
References
- [1] Job Description – Firefighter – Superstition Fire & Medical District
- [2] Firefighter Job Description – South Metro Fire Rescue
- [3] Career Firefighter/EMT Job Description – City Of Reading, PA
- [4] Mesa Fire and Medical FIREFIGHTER JOB DESCRIPTION
- [5] Firefighter – City of Turlock (Working for Us\Job Descriptions)
- [6] Firefighter Job Description [Updated for 2025] – Indeed