The Firefighter Type 1 leads a small group (usually not more than seven members) and is responsible for their safety on wildland and prescribed fire incidents. The FFT1 supervises resources at the FFT2 level and reports to a Single Resource Crew Boss or other assigned supervisor.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average firefighter makes about $50,850 annually or $24.45 per hour.
Hotshot crews are the most highly trained, skilled and experienced type of handcrews. They are qualified to provide leadership for initial-attack and extended-attack on wildland fires. Hotshots are trained and equipped to work in remote areas for extended periods of time with minimal logistical support.
The “Firefighter Type 2 (Crewmember)†forms the backbone of our efforts to manage or suppress wildland fire. These entry-level positions frequently work long days in hot, smoky conditions to build fire lines across rugged terrain with hand tools and chainsaws.
As a federal worker, a Hotshot Firefighter earns an average of $13 per hour during off-season. The pay increases during the peak fire season where they work up to 16 hours, sometimes even extending up to 48-64 hours. They earn an average salary of $40,000 during a six-month season (including overtime and hazard pay).
Firefighters control a fire's spread (or put it out) by removing one of the three ingredients fire needs to burn: heat, oxygen, or fuel. They remove heat by applying water or fire retardant on the ground (using pumps or special wildland fire engines) or by air (using helicopters/airplanes).
Are you physically fit to be a hotshot?
- 1.5 mile run in a time of 10:35 or less.
- 40 sit-ups in 60 seconds.
- 25 pushups in 60 seconds.
- Chin-ups, based on body weight. More than 170 lbs. = 4 chin-ups. 135-170 lbs. = 5 chin-ups. 110-135 lbs. = 6 chin-ups. Less than 110 lbs. = 7 chin-ups.
Wildland firefighters may be required to work long hours in challenging and changing conditions, such as high temperatures and steep terrain. A career in wildland fire has many rewards, including the opportunity to work in some of the most beautiful places in the country and create friendships that last a lifetime.
The starting salary for many federal U.S. Forest Service firefighters in California is $28,078, barely 40% of the $66,336 entry-level salary Cal Fire pays. It's clear why federal agencies have trouble attracting and retaining skilled firefighters.
The Red Card is an agency-issued document that certifies that an individual has the training, experience and physical fitness to perform the tasks of a specified position on a wildland or prescribed fire.
During the off-season, wildland firefighters may still work full-time as firefighters. However, seasonal wildland firefighters work during the fire season and may collect unemployment, travel, work other jobs, or further their education during the off-season.
Hotshot CrewsA hotshot crew consists of 20 specially-trained firefighters. They provide an organized, mobile, and skilled workforce for all phases of wildland fire management. Hotshot crews receive top-notch training, adhere to high physical standards, and have the ability to take on difficult assignments.
The following qualifications are assets when seeking employment as a wildland firefighter:
- A high school diploma or equivalent.
- Experience in logging or as a forestry labourer.
- A standard first aid certificate with CPR.
- A chain saw certificate.
- A defensive driving certificate (with 7 demerits or less)
No, wildland firefighter face masks offer little protection against the harmful components contained in smoke, and they do not protect against superheated gases or supply oxygen. Fighting wildland fires can expose firefighters to harmful components contained in smoke, which in part include: • Acrolein and formaldehyde.
Firefighter Traits: Top 5 Traits to be a Successful Firefighter
- Physical Fitness. Not just anyone can be a firefighter.
- Patience and Tolerance. With the fire service profession comes long hours of sitting around a firehouse with a wide variety of personalities.
- Dedication.
- Great Communication Skills.
- Uncommon Courage.
5 Characteristics of a Firefighter
- Excellence in Communication.
- Compassion.
- Fast and Sound Decision-Making Skills.
- Courage.
- Physical Stamina and Strength.
Firefighters are one of the happiest careers in the United States. As it turns out, firefighters rate their career happiness 3.8 out of 5 stars which puts them in the top 16% of careers.
Firefighters face serious risks on the job such as heat exhaustion, burns, physical and mental stress. Additionally, they frequently come into contact with high levels of carbon monoxide and other toxic hazards. Firefighters who smoke or engage in other unhealthy lifestyle habits are at even a greater risk.
Skills are the expertise or talent needed in order to do a job or task. There are many different types of skills that can help you succeed at all aspects of your life whether it's school, work, or even a sport or hobby. Skills are what makes you confident and independent in life and are essential for success.
The ARC Basic Firefighter I is a tuition-based academy operated through the California Fire & Rescue Training Authority, in partnership with the Sacramento Fire Department and the Sacramento Regional Public Safety Training Center. You will receive the education and training you will need to become a Firefighter 1.
The 24 deaths of career firefighters while on-duty in 2020 continues the trend over the previous 10 years where the total has been in the 20s or lower.
The Pack Test is a 4.83-km (3-mile) hike over level terrain carrying a 20.5kg (45 pound) pack. To qualify for arduous fireline work, you must complete the pack test in 45 minutes or less. Tests taken at altitude should be adjusted (see table).
NFPA's mandate (1404) is that no facial hair shall prevent an adequate seal on an SCBA mask. That would be the standard for structural firefighters to be clean shaven Or at least just a mustache.
Wildland firefighters can work 14 days straight (called a roll) with 16-hour days and possibly up to three days travel before and after the official 14. Night shifts and longer shifts of 16-24 hours are possible depending on the fire and area you are in, but not super common.
Positions range from entry-level firefighter to senior fire management positions. Appointments range from temporary, seasonal positions to permanent, full-time year-round positions.
Employment:
- Wildland firefighter positions are generally advertised in the off-season (Oct-Dec) and hired as fire season approaches (Jan-Mar).
- Individuals seeking employment should think about applying by Sept/Oct as many announcements close in January.
