1. Why do you want to work in this industry? Bad answer: "I like firefighting. I think it's really cool." Don't just say you like it. Anyone can "like" firefighting. Focus instead on your history with the industry, and if you can, tell a story. Good answer: "I have always appreciated and admired those who put their lives on the line ...

Human instinct is to run away from fire for fear of being injured or killed. Firefighters are the only ones who run toward a burning building in search of people in need of help. They are willing to risk their lives for complete strangers regardless of race, creed, color, or socioeconomic status. What is it that motivates them to do this? ...

Candidates who have served our country in the Armed Forces have a huge advantage over those who have not. It is generally believed that while military veterans may not have as many certificates and fire science units as the other candidates (they were busy serving our country), they offer so much more. The personal growth and professional experience a military service ...

*+Volunteer Firefighters+* Over ninety percent of the firefighters in the United States are volunteer firefighters. These men and women live in the community and want to make it a safer place. Frequently the local firehouse is the focal point in the community. The fire engines, and trucks are purchased with donations raised from the community. Becoming a volunteer firefighter is not ...

Ever wonder what you need to do to break into the fire service? Written by Battalion Chief Paul Lepore, author of three best selling firefighter career how-to books, this 5-step guide offers aspiring firefighters unique insight on how to best position yourself for a successful firefighting career and what to expect your first year on the job. A special section by ...

We here at FireLink are constantly being asked questions such as: "how do I become a firefighter?", "what is expected of me physically?", and "do I need a college degree?" There is no one better equipped to answer these questions than firefighters themselves, so we have compiled a list of responses found in our Forums. So, here's a quick guide to ...

The in-basket exercise has been around forever and is one of my favorites. A candidate is given a list of items that must be addressed within a certain time frame. He or she is asked to prioritize the items and justify his reasons to the panel. It’s up to the candidate to determine what is important, and what is urgent. The ...

Stock Photo It is well known that firefighters expose themselves to many hazards, including toxic fumes, unstable structures and, of course, fired and extreme heat. They do this not for the glory, but for their desire to protect property and the people in their communities from fire. To minimize risks to health and safety, firefighters carry protective gear and wear specialized, ...

Worried about your firefighter oral board interview? First, take the proper amount of time to prepare. Being well-prepared will boost your confidence and lower your anxiety. Experts recommend that you spend at least three hours preparing for each interview. You should draft answers to the most common interview questions and practice speaking them out loud. You also should read up ...

Tattoos have been around for hundreds of years and will be around for hundreds more. In today’s society, tattoos are becoming more prevalent, and in some segments of our culture, more accepted. The fire department is a paramilitary organization. There are standards for dress code and for conduct both on and off duty. As a general rule, firefighters are a pretty ...

We all know that showing up late to an interview or dressing inappropriately can ruin your chances for a job. But what about the more subtle ways that could make you unexpectedly sabotage your job interview? Don't let it happen to you! Keep in mind these 10 common subconscious mistakes that you probably don't even know you're making. Next | ...

The term “Assessment Center” often sends promotional candidates into frenzy. It is unfamiliar to many people and as a result their already increased anxiety over the promotional process is heightened. The purpose of this article is to shed some light on the process. No department wants to have quality candidates get lost in the testing process, rather it’s an opportunity for ...

The internet is an information-junkies “dream come true.” A novice “surfer” can find almost anything; and expert can do truly amazing things. I mention this, because not only is there a plethora of available information on “How to Become a Firefighter,” there is also some information that is conspicuous by its absence. The purpose of this article is to discuss the ...

You've done the hardest part, you survived your initiation years and become a valuable part of your department. Now what? Most promotion advice resources neglect public service jobs such as career firefighting so here's your chance to learn what it takes to move up in the ranks. FireLink featured writer Battalion Chief Paul Lepore has offered a multitude of resources to ...

It is important that you prepare questions you might be asked. Here are a few samples for Fire Captain. Type your answers into the text boxes. When you're done, click "Print This Page" at the bottom, and print your answers for reference. (Note: if your answer has exceeded the size of the box, only the portion showing will print.) Interview Questions ...

So, You Want to Be a Paramedic? Be warned: it takes sacrifice, long hours, horrible weather conditions, heavy lifting, being bled and spat upon, and exposed to who knows how many bodily fluids from…we’ll just let you imagine. Still interested? Then let’s continue, because in actuality this is can be one of the most rewarding jobs available. As a Paramedic, you ...

*+Mental Conditioning+* It is extremely stressful to prepare for a manipulative exam knowing that if you don’t perform you will lose your job. Everyone in the academy has to perform to the minimum standards. There are NO exceptions. Being able to perform under pressure is critical. Remember, the training staff is there to help you be successful. The department has invested ...

It’s time for the reality check. America is in a recession and jobs are fewer while competition is greater. It takes even more hustle, dedication, and tenacity to land a job today than it did for your parents. Having a degree isn’t always enough and, sorry to break it to you, but you aren’t likely to get your dream job ...

SMOKEJUMPERS Skydiving into a hot zone is sometimes the only way to access a remote area and fight a fire. It’s a dangerous job but someone has to do it before the fire spreads any further. The people who do this are called smokejumpers. Equipped with a parachute and firefighting gear, they go in and try to control the fire until ...

My brother is a firefighter. I used to say that a lot. Somebody would ask about my family at a social gathering, and I'd go down the list: my dad's in the travel industry, my youngest siblings are still in high school, and my brother is a firefighter. No big deal, everybody does SOMETHING with their lives, but to me my ...