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Be a Firefighter >> Browse Articles >> Ten Steps to Becoming a Volunteer Firefighter

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Step 4: Mentally Prepare Yourself

Step 4: Mentally Prepare Yourself
Featured Author:

Luther Berge

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Luther Berge is a 2-year veteran volunteer firefighter at the Pickwick Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department located in Winona, Minnesota. After taking a tour of a local fire department back in elementary school, Luther had the natural passion to become a firefighter. He recalls chasing after responding sirens when he was younger, just to see if he could catch sight of the firetrucks. One of his proudest accomplishments was when he became a first responder, and making his childhood dream come true. Other than response calls, Luther's favorite part about being a volunteer is the opportunity to meet others from surrounding departments and build new relationships with those firefighters. Having several mutual aid calls, Luther understands the importance of branching out his relationships outside of just his own station.
More articles from this author:

Kendra Weikman & Luther Berge

At this point you have researched the industry, spoken with a few departments, and narrowed down your career path interests. Now you have to mentally prepare yourself for the job ahead.

We all know that life is not mimicked by what you see on television and in the movies. There are very real dangers and horrors that one in fire and rescue can, and will, experience.

If you are looking to pursue a paramedic or first response position, you have to be able to handle interactions with blood, body parts and fluid, violence victims, and even death.

Quiz: What Fire are You Fit to Fight?

PollsFrom medical emergencies to forest fires, EMTs, paramedics, and firefighters must hone their skills to step up to any challenge. Part of choosing specialties in fire & rescue is evaluating your personality, training, and experience. Take this quiz to assess your best fitting specialty as a fire & rescue professional.
Find out now!
Because of current budget limitations and constraints, departments may be looking for individuals who can work specific positions. If you know you cannot handle the responsibilities of those positions, speak up when going through the hiring discussions. It is far better to find a job that you can excel and enjoy than to take a position you feel uncomfortable and unsatisfied in.

Make sure you get yourself into the right frame of mind, and prepare yourself for the challenges ahead. Once you do that you can throw your whole self into the job and enjoy all the benefits that come from it.


Step 5: Be Aware of Your Limitations

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