Firefighter Salary in the United States in 2024 & Required knowledge, Abilities, and Skills

Being a firefighter is a tough but rewarding job. Firefighters counter fires, rescue people from them, and facilitate them with early medical aid. Saving people by risking your life is challenging, and only some could do this. Hence, Firefighters deserve good compensation for risking their lives to save others. What the firefighter salary remains the burning topic? Here in this guide, we’ll give you an explanation of that. 

 But do they receive enough for this? What is a firefighter salary in the United States? 

Let’s go through this guide to know what you can expect as a firefighter in the USA and what other responsibilities they have.

Average Firefighter Salary in the USA

The average firefighter salary in the United States is $77,618 per year. The salary typically ranges between $35,000 and $89,000 per year. While entry-level positions start at $38,959 per year, most experienced workers make up to $74,400 per year. The firefighter in the USA earns $27.3 per hour on average. However, firefighter salary is highly dependent on experience, location, and work setting. 

Average Firefighter Salary Based on Experience

Best-paying cities in the USA

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More About Firefighters- A Life Saviour

A firefighter is a professional responsible for handling emergencies, such as fires, medical crises, events involving hazardous chemicals, and rescues. They are dedicated and well-trained and undertake various tasks, including extinguishing fires, saving lives, and giving emergency medical attention to patients. Firefighters are also important for educating people about safety measures and prevention in emergencies like this. 

They work in dangerous situations and perform a lot of physical and mental work in stressful conditions, that’s why they need to be physically fit and mentally active. To maintain their physical strength and to stay updated with the new trends and developments, they are always in training. Further, they play a major part in saving lives and environmental destruction. They frequently establish deeper connections and the communities they serve.

Responsibilities they have

The responsibilities of a firefighter extend beyond just fighting fires. Here are the roles and responsibilities of a firefighter:

• They utilize extinguishers and other equipment, lift and climb ladders, handle nozzles and direct water streams, lay and connect hoses, and respond to emergency calls.
• They search and rescue people from dangerous situations, like fire, water clogging, collapsed buildings, and so on. 
• Firefighters are trained to provide emergency medical services (EMS) to the patients. They take initial care of the patients and assess whether they need to be sent to the hospital. 
• They shall also help in transporting people to the medical facilities. 
• Firefighters gain specialized training to identify hazardous materials at the scene of the incident and they take actions to control the transmission of such things and perform decontamination activities.
• They are responsible for inspecting homes and buildings for fire safety to make sure fire codes are being followed. They also play a critical role in organizing and implementing fire drills in organizations like businesses, schools, and other institutions, 
• They also help to impart knowledge on how to prepare for fires.

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How to become a Firefighter in the USA?

To become a fireman in the USA does not require exceptional academics or scores. Certain steps need to be followed and then you are eligible to become a firefighter.

Eligibilities:

1. You must be at least 18 to 21 years old.
2. You should have completed a high school diploma or GED. 
3. A valid driver’s license is usually required for further process.
4. As the job requires physical activities, good physique and fitness is required.

Steps to follow:

1. After completing a high school diploma, you may consider doing an associate or bachelor’s degree in fire science or a related field. This would help in improving your knowledge and job prospects. However, this is not mandatory. 
2. Many fire departments require EMT certification, as firefighters often face medical emergencies. So you can complete your certifications for the same for more chances of hiring.
3. Then find out about hiring positions and vacancies in fire departments and submit applications to more than one to increase your chances of hiring. 
4. Further, you have to take and pass a written exam that tests your basic knowledge, reasoning, and skills like problem-solving skills.
5. Physical Ability Test (PAT) is an examination to test your strength, endurance, and quickness. You must pass this test to become a fireman.
6. After hiring, you will have to attend a training academy where you will receive rigorous training in fire suppression, emergency medical services, hazardous materials response, and rescue operations.

Required knowledge, Abilities, and Skills

• Comprehensive understanding of fire apparatus and techniques for extinguishing flames and conducting rescue operations.
• Expertise in responding to hazardous materials, emergency medical care, and safety procedures.
• Knowledge of applicable provincial legislation as well as fire service rules and regulations is essential.
• The ability to maintain facilities and equipment used in fighting fires.
• Knowledge of local geography, wiring, hydraulics, and building construction.
• A registered care level of proficiency in emergency medical services.
• The ability to comprehend and operate mechanical systems.
• The ability to work hard and long hours in challenging environments with strength and agility.
• The capacity to successfully follow written and spoken instructions.
• Proficiency with medical, rescue, and firefighting apparatus.

Conclusion

Firefighting is not an easy job and is highly uncertain. It’s not only about extinguishing fire but also rescuing people and providing them with emergency medical aid. The firefighter salary depends on various factors including experience, location, and employer settings. Acquiring more skills and qualities can earn them more salaries. 

Firefighters need to be physically fit and mentally sharp to work in stressful conditions. They play an important role in educating people about safety measures and actions taken in emergencies. 

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