What got You started in the Fireservice?

[canman]

I Just wanted to hear how people got started in the fireservice,ie:was it an uncle or maybe your dad that was or still is a firefighter that influenced you to do the same.Could it have been the t.v. show Emergency? Or the thrill of seeing those galliant firefighters on those big Red engines when you were a kid and wanted to be a part of them.Well here goes my story,when I was a kid my mom used to take me to the Vol. dept. in my town alot and show me the trucks. Then when we moved to the city she still cont. to take me to the fire station so I'd have to say it was her that influenced me to join the fireservice. So would you please be so kind as to reply.

[Fireplug99]

I grew up around the fire service. My dad joined the local volunteer F.D. before I was born. As soon as I turned 18 I joined. Both my younger brothers tried it and didn't like it. After 10 yrs as a volunteer in a progressive paid/volunteer county system I moved and have been in the paid service ever since. 30 yrs and counting.

And please, no paid/vollie bashing. I can argue both sides of the fence quite well.

[MetalMedic]

When I was four years old, a friend of the family became involved in starting a new volunteer fire department in our neighborhood. I can remember my parents taking me to the one-bay garage to look at the hand-me-down pumper the men had been given by Village/Township Fire Department that was located on the other side of the township from where we lived (the new department became Station #2, but was really on its own since the Village did not want anything to do with them). Every year as I grew up, I can remember being with my parents when they attended the auction sales that the struggling little Station #2 used to support itself.

When I turned 19 (the minimum age to join), it seemed natural to me to join. The auction sales had sputtered out, the friend of the family had retired and moved to Florida. All that was left to do was to become a part of it and support it that way.

Once I became a member, I realized that I seemed to have some apitude for firefighting. I didn't care much for ladders, but had no problems doning an airpack and running in where people were running out (this was 1980, and SCBAs were still somewhat of a novelty and only used by the most aggresive interior attack oriented guys). So, I filled a void in the 20 member department that was aging and in need of young men.

Like most others I am sure, it "got into my blood" and now I don't know if I can do without it. However, it is harder now to keep up with the training and attendance requirements. I just recently got my first verbal "warning" for failing to make the required 25% of the calls. It is not that I have been sluffing off, but the demands of my full-time job have put me in a position where I am just not home when the calls are coming in... So who know how much longer I can keep it up... I'll stay as long as they will kepp me I guess.

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Richard Nester
Orrville (OH) Fire Dept.


[This message has been edited by MetalMedic (edited September 20, 2000).]

[ceno2749]

My dad was the one who got me hooked. He was a volunteer firefighter for 20 years before he passed away. I grew up in the volunteer fire service, joining as a junior firefighter at age 14. Been in it for 10.5 years and have no intentions of quitting. http://www.firehouse.com/interactive/boards/smile.gif
(I'll probably try to get my kids into the fire service,also)

[JJordan]

Some years ago, I walked into my area station to inquire about a code of some sort.It took the Fire Marshal a few minutes to reference it and run me a copy. In those few minutes, the sights, sounds, the people, I realized it held something for me.
A few days later I went back for something else, and was making small talk with a few of them when they got toned out. I guess there was about ten on duty at the time. I stood and watched. It went from an ordinary, routine atmosphere, into a great burst of action in seconds. They came down the pole, they came down the stairs, vollies came through the back door and down into the bays.The doors came up, those big deisels fired, they emptied four bays worth of trucks and then they were gone. The sudden silence after all that was odd. I just stood there and took it in. I could smell the diesel fumes, and see their shoes in the floor.
I joined as a volunteer the next day, a year and a half later I was hired full time. God willing, one day I will retire amongst some of the most honorable there is.
Take care, stay safe.

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*THE ABOVE TEXT IS THE OPINION OF THE WRITER AND NOT THAT OF ANY FIRE DEPT. OR ASSOCIATED ENTITY.*

[Firefighter2000]

I have always like fire. I am planning to join the fire service as soon as I am old enough. What got me hooked was when i lost my brother in the line of duty. He loved the fire dept. and so do I. But i guess my mom still needs to be worked on she would all but die before she lat me become a firefighter. But i really love it and I can't wait.

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Firefighters America's Hero's

[FireRebel]

simply put, its in my blood, my father is a career guy, I volunteered for the past five years and trying to get on as a career Firefighter....I can not fathom doing anything else, its a passion...

[N2DFire]

Well, I wish I could come thru with some great story of being inspired from family and friends or thru station visits but I can't.

I am actually one of the people who were inspired by none other than Johnny Guage and Roy DeSoto of Station 51. I was born in the early 70's so Emergency was probably into re-runs by the time I was old enough to understand what I was watching on TV.

As long as I can remember I have had the "dream" of being a Firefighter/Paramedic in the back of my head. I joined the local Volly Rescue Squad my senior year in High School (with a little arm twisting from a friend and then joined the VFD a few years later).

Now - thanks to God and the support of my friends & family (who still debate my sanity at times *L*) - after almost 11 years of "coming up through the ranks" - as of August this year I completed my NREMT-P.

Even though my career and personal life have led me away from it; I still have the desire to become a career Firefighter/Paramedic someday.

Well as they say - "Thats my story and I'm stickin to it".

Take Care - Stay Safe
Stephen

[SRFD1604]

I started in the fire service 13 years ago and don't regrett it one bit, I was inspired by a friend who was on the local volunteer dept. Over the years I have been on several depts due to my military career, but have learned new techniques and experiences from each deptartment and also have realized no matter where you go there is a special bond better known as a brotherhood in the fire service.

these are my opinions and not any organization's

[ENGINE18-3]

Well who inspired me to become a Firefighter?It was ,like many people, my Dad he joined in 75 I was born in 80 and so needless to say I grew up at the Firehouse. Knowing all the guys riding the trucks in the parades having all your friends get jealous. Man it was a great thing. And when I was allowed to join in 98 it was the first thing I did on my birthday. Now my Dad and myself are in the same locker and we have more fun now than before.

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The statements above are my own opinions

FF Greg Grudzinski
Oaklyn Fire Dept.
Station 18-3

[firefighter2]

Well I been in the fire service for 4 and one half years. My dad vol but stopped in the early 90's due to health problems. So you can say thru the 80's I was always intrested in riding the fire truck!!!! http://www.firehouse.com/interactive/boards/biggrin.gif Well when I turned 17 (16 min age for Junior firefighter) I got up enough courage to attened a meeting and join (was debating for a year). Well I did and NEVER LOOKED BACK. I had great teachers that showed me the way and in the summer of 1999 I decided that "history-government teaching" was not what I really wanted to do for the rest of my life, So I decided to become a Paid Fire Fighter. I enjoyed the fire service too much in what I did to help the community. I been out of the academy now for 6 months and I am looking for a job in a small-med size town in my area.

STAY SAFE

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This is my opinion only and not of my department

[firebox1]

Well, this is how it went for me, nine years ago I went to fill out some paper work to join the police dept. and the tone went off for the fire dept. and lonely one guy showed up for the call and the one that showed up asked if I was busy. joined that day started classes two days later and now nine years later I work fulltime for this dept. and now I'm the training officer, fire investigator, fire prevention officer, county training committee member,and county investigation team member. the day after I joined my brother joined and now he is the fire chief of the dept. makes things rough for me when I need things done. We are the only two in our family that are in this line of fun.

[Mike DeVuono]

Honestly...

I live in an apartment and needed a place to wash my truck. Got sick of taking it to those quarter joints. Best thing i ever did. I wouldn't give it up for anything.


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Mike DeVuono
Warminster Fire Dept.
Engine Co. 91

"There are few atheists inside a burning building."

[fireater]

I guess that I'm like all of you it in the family and in the blood! My grandfather was a paid chief and in the fire service 40+ years and he is still working on a vol. dept at almost 70 years of age I guess that you just can't get it out of his blood. My father is a career guy and a Capt. He has almost 20 in the fire service, and then my uncle is a Capt. and has 15 years in the fire service so when I wanted to join the vol. dept. at the age of 16 (legal age on this dept.) it was to no surprise to any of them. Now serving on that dept. for 3 1/2 years and Now working on my Fire Science degree to become a carrer firefighter, It's the only thing that I can ever see my self doing in life, is running into the burn inferno and dancing with the dragon. On a side note looks like we are going to add another generation to the family list of name my brother is attempting to join the local vol. dept. as well it all in the blood!! http://www.firehouse.com/interactive/boards/smile.gif

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Stay Safe and remember to put the wet stuff on the red stuff

[canman]

I couldn't agree with you more FirePlug99 I'm all for paid and vol. getting along I feel we are One Team and apologize if I did any bashing that was not my intent.

[firekid519]

I got interested in firefighting because of my dad. I can remember in first grade my dad and I doing homework together because that is when he took his firefighter classes. In December I got to join our local vol. dept. Since then I have went through the required training courses and am loving every minute of the job. Now it's just deciding if I want to try to get on a full time dept. or not. I guess I have time to decide being I'm only 18.

Be Safe

[This message has been edited by firekid519 (edited September 20, 2000).]

[smokeeater51]

I am a third generation firefighter myself. My grandfather is a retired career captain, and my father is due to retire in the next couple of years as a career assistant fire chief. He also served as a volunteer fire captain for over 20 years. I have seen an old photo of one of my mothers relatives holding a fire helmet, so I could be a fourth. Third definatly. I have been in the volunteer service since 1991 and absolutely love the service to my community. I have served with three different fire departments, one of which is an air service that runs to primarily stucture fires in Clinton County, New York. That was the best experience of my life, lot's of fire. I am currently a Lieut./ NREMT-B on Rollinsford Fire & Rescue. My brother is also a firefighter, volunteer and career. It's really a family affair as I have uncles that are in it as well. Great topic, I always love to hear how others got their start.

Take care, stay safe, and stay low.

Lt. M Spinney
Rollinsford Fire & Rescue

[Fire Line]

Never thought about joining until my first house burnt to the ground! The Vol fire dept. did everything they could. Middle of the night, I was at work, was fully involved before neighbour noticed it.Was talking to the chief the next day. Joined right after finished rebuilding. Only regret was not joining sooner.

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[Fire Chick 222]

Im 16 yrs old, female & a Fire Explorer. I've wanted to be a firefighter for as long as i can remember. It started when i was around 3 i think and i was always in the hospital. dealt with bad asthma, many cases of pneumonia, and basically just being a kid. i was always getting injured, being a major klutz and daredevil (typical tomboy). i was so fascinated by the firemen who came to "save me" i knew thats what i wanted to do when i was older. when people asked what i wanted to be when i grew up the first word out of my mouth was "firefighter!" but who's gonna take a little kid seriously. then a few years ago i become more interested in the medical side. i have a fainting problem ( i faint all the time, no diagnosis made yet) so i basically spent the last 6 years in the back of an ambulance on the way to my second home, the hospital. thats when i got very interested in becoming a medic also. so im planning to become a Firefighter/Paramedic in the near future. =) i've been a Fire Explorer since 1998 and i love it so much. I definately know that im destined to be a FF/Medic.

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"STAND BACK 500 FEET"

[NCOTS]

A friend of mine got my brother involved and being that he is my big brother I wanted to get invovled also. Being a Firefighter is the best thing that you can give to your neighbors. That is a very big reason.

[PSO]

First of all, I would like to point out that I am not a firefighter. But being a firefighter is my childhood dream. Nobody had influence on me to join the fire services. I personally enjoy the life and work of a firefighter, this is because the fire service is the most respectable career (in my mind). All firefighters are highly-respected because they risk their life when saving others.

I have tried very hard in joining this career but it really broke my heart when I was notified by the department that I failed the interview (I have applied for a fire officer position four times, during the second time, I passed all the interview, due to some mishap, I was being rejected from joining the training course.)

God, would you please give a chance to me so that I can be a real firefighter!!!

[D.SCHWER]

My Dad would take me to his firehouse where he was a volunteer. I remember standing on the back step pretending to go to a fire. Also the firehouse had a brass pole that i would slide down.

Also there were the summer picnics and Christmas parties every year. Nearly every member who had sons at the time joined a soon as they turned 18, that is one way we got new members

Today I have 25 years in that fire company although I no longer live in that town. My Dad is going on 45 years

[OFDLUIT33]

My grandmother lived next door to one of the fireman in town and ever scince I was a kid I wanted to be a fireman. http://www.firehouse.com/interactive/boards/smile.gif

[bafirefighter]

I got started when I was about six and caught the kitchen on fire, I never fought fire so hard in my life.

Then in high school my best friend's Dad and his partner were killed fighting an arson fire in Claremore Oklahoma and I thought this is what I need to do for Brad's dad and Brad. Now I cant think of anything I would rather do...

[Eng 48]

My Grandfather belonged to the Fire Co. and when the whistle would go off I would ride my bike down to the firehouse. They had a chalk board where they would write the address of the call. If it was close I would ride my bike down to watch. As I got older, my Grandfather didn't do very much with the Fire Co., and it wasn't until a good friend of the family asked me how old I was. I said I was 18. So down I went to fill out an application. Now look at the mess he got me into! I can't think of anything I love more. I've been doing it for 8 years now and plan to do it for many more!


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Be safe everyone!

[FFCode3EMT]

I'm a second generation firefighter. I got started when my father was a firefighter in the Air Force. I spent my younger years around lime green crash trucks and the red ones in my hometown and just never got rid of the bug. I've been a volunteer in my combination department a little over 2 years and I love every minute of it.

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**The preceding comments in no way represent the views of my department, its members, or associations that it may belong to.**

[Firefighter2197]

I got involved the day i came hom from the hosptal after being born. Dad is a 24 yr vetern in the fie service I got into it changeing bottles and other stuff like that until Iu turned 16 and joined as a cadat. I am finshing up my probie strch to be a full time ff
2197 :cool

[SRFD3114]

I can honestly say that it was a combination of watching Emergency! on television when I was a little kid and learning more about the field when I was involved with the Boy Scouts.

I have been a volunteer firefighter for almost 4 years now and am trying to get on a career department.

Main reason "Just like to help people in the community that I live in" http://www.firehouse.com/interactive/boards/smile.gif

[This message has been edited by SRFD3114 (edited October 09, 2000).]

[cozmosis]

My grandfather was once the chief of his hometown volunteer department. My father was a cop. After heavy doses of "CHiPs" and "Emergency," I was destined to to be involved in some type of emergency service. However, it wasn't until I was covering the fire department as a reporter that I decided to get involved for real.

[kmnader]

I have to admit it was probably the show Emergency that I watched as a kid.

Kristian

[cmjones]

I joined the fire service to see what it was like. I got interested in it after talking with a classmate at school. Since then I have been in the fire department.

[Michelle Bennett]

My Dad was in the service when I was born, he along with our firefighting family kept me interested the entire time I grew up, then I was fortunate enough for him to completely back me and my brother when we decided to become firefighters, and now I am very lucky to be married to a man who loves and respects the service just as my dad does, I guess you can call it a family business. Dad-Chief Husband-Asst. Chief Brother-Capt. Mom-Tres. I'm very very lucky!

[S. Cook]

Former job doing maintenance and mods to helicopters, mostly EMS. One of the mechanics from the University of Tennessee was in while we were moding their 222UT and was a volly where he was from (Knoxville area).

He asked if I knew if there was a vol. dept. where I lived (outside Burleson TX), I told him I didn't know, he said I should find out and support them because those folks work hard for me.

A few days later, a letter came in the mail from the Rendon VFD that basically said they need money, manpower or both. So I checked it out, joined and never looked back.

Since that day 13 years ago, I've moved and joined the Granbury VFD. And am still loving virtually every minute of it.

[Fyresq50]

I was trapped in the back seat of a car that was on fire as a child, and I was rescued by the scary looking men in the odd looking clothes that wore masks. After being confirmed uninjured exce3pt smoke inhalation, I was shown the people and the equipment, and became hooked on watching Emergency, and eventually became a firefighter myself.

[FiRsqDvr45]

My mom was a nurse, my dad(Rollie) a sheriff, vol. FF and EMT and my stepdad a city cop so my parental figures where in the business of helping people so it was always instilled on me that it was the way to be. When I was about 4 my mom had a friend who was married to a guy named Phil Winn, a tall, strong guy that was a firefighter in the city of Portsmouth, NH. He used to bring me to the station and give me copies of old fire magzines and training manuals and when I was around 10 he got me my first crystalized fire scanner so I could listen to him and the guys take in the calls. Over the next few years I thought it would be neat to be like Big Phil and be a heroic firefighter but youth took over and I didn't know if I wanted to do that or be a technical diver, a truck driver or a state trooper. When I was 13 I was really starting to think that the FD would be the thing and all I needed was a push to make my mind up for me when I got it in a way I wasn't ready for. One spring morning I watched my stepfather, Al Bussiere, do CPR on a woman in her 30's and all I could do was stand there and watch not knowing what to do to help and even after all he did for her she died a few days later in the hospital. I felt so helpless and really wanted to find out what I could do so that I could help and not feel helpless again. After all, the woman I watched die was my own mother. After her funeral a friend at school, Tim Connors, told me that to keep busy and have fun he had joined a fire exlorer post in Newington, NH at the Fire Department and he thought it would be fun and help me get my mind of the loss of my mother so I gave it a shot. They taught me CPR, First Aid and tons of rudimentry firefighting skills to get me familiar with the job so that when I became 18 I could become a call member. Within months I knew I was in love with what I was learning and on a summer day before high school when I was 17 I was able to use my skills to revive a baby girl in respiratory arrest. I saw the same look of helplessness on the mothers eyes as my stepfather and I worked on her daughter before the ambulance arrived that I had experienced just 4 years before. My decision was sealed that day and I have realized I might not help save everyone I treat, or save every building that is on fire, but I am satisfied knowing that I have chosen a noble profession to follow and that when my time for judgement comes I will be proud knowing I tried to make a difference in a positive way, everyday I work. Not many other professions can say that, so here I am and here I will stay.

Sorry that I ramble, my wife hates that! http://www.firehouse.com/interactive/boards/smile.gif

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FF/EMT Jay Ellingson
Newington,NH FD,
Madbury,NH VFD & FAST Squad &
New England Dragway Safety Team (Sundaaayy!)
Be Safe!

[fm2b]

Going to the firehouse with my father when I was a tiny kid, seemingly too young to understand what the job was about, made a huge, everlasting impression on me. Having my father walk in the front door the next morning, smelling like smoke. That did it. Even though I was a little kid, I knew. Once you have a 100% understanding about what the job means, and what its about- your hooked for life.

[ChiefJTL]

My experience came from visiting the houses all across the city. I was buffing at age 14 and began my career as soon as I was able. I joined because the fire service is a calling. Unlike any other job you are there to help always.

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"Stay in the House"

[firecadetak]

I am a third generation firefighter for the department I am at. My grandfather is a retired Fire Chief with 28 years in the business. My dad is currently a lieutenant with 20+ years under his belt. I also have an uncle and great uncle who were firefighters for awhile. I am a firefighter cadet, starting while I am sixteen years old. and plan on doing this for a long time.

[SFDE12]

I would call my self a by-product of Johnny and Roy, as a young kid used to watch "Emergency!" and from then on was a fire buff, so at 18 I joined up

[Ford45]

Second generation smoke eater baby!! product of one fire chief (at the time i was born to 10 yrs old) who had been a fire fighter since he was 18, an eight year veteran of the fire department (my mom) and the nephew of a firefighter. I guess you can say its in my blood. stay cool!

[Ford45]

Second generation smoke eater baby!! product of one fire chief (at the time i was born to 10 yrs old) who had been a fire fighter since he was 18, an eight year veteran of the fire department (my mom) and the nephew of a firefighter. I guess you can say its in my blood. stay cool!

[FireFJayT]

I got into the fire service after watching my older brother at a 8 alarm fire. The building collapsed onto one of the aerials and the scene was pure hell. The efforts that the other firefighters gave when the collapse happened was a treat to see. Luckily the guys on the aerial were injured only slightly. I was hooked!!!!

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"No matter what rank I have attained, I am, at heart, a Firefighter First"

[FireFJayT]

I got into the fire service after watching my older brother at a 8 alarm fire. The building collapsed onto one of the aerials and the scene was pure hell. The efforts that the other firefighters gave when the collapse happened was a treat to see. Luckily the guys on the aerial were injured only slightly. I was hooked!!!!

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"No matter what rank I have attained, I am, at heart, a Firefighter First"

[trumpeter75]

I'll admit to watching Johnny and Roy as a kid, and playing fireman in the backyard. My best friend joined the local fire department after high school (while I was in college), and got me interested shortly after I graduated. I've been at it ever since.

[Thoe1]

Getting a gauranteed job in the USAF as a firefighter was all I needed to do the job I love.. I always wanted to be a firedawg and when I signed on the dotted line all I had to do was ensure I graduated BASIC on time so I didn't loose my slot to Fire School.. So here I am 10 years later..

T-hoe

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Your doing it right if your doing it
FOR HIM !!!
http://smilecwm.tripod.com/net/ukliam2.gif

The Ultimate Firehouse (http://www.theultimatefirehouse.com)

T-hoe's Fire Protection Page (Http://clik.to/thoe1/)

USAF Firedawgs (http://www.military.com/HomePage/UnitCreatedPage/0,11003,701887,00.html?home_pa ge_id=701887)

[firefighteranne]

Like many others have stated previously, my dad was a firefighter on a volunteer department, so that's what interested me initially. When I moved to the town I live in now, I was finding it difficult to get to know people. Fact of life in a small town--if you weren't born and raised there, you will always be an outsider. I figured joining the fire department was a good way to get to know people and prove I was part of the community. When I joined 14 years ago, I had just enough rebel in me (and still do) to do what many thought I shouldn't or couldn't do. Many assume my husband is a volunteer firefighter also, but he's not.

[PieShop]

When I was 15 a guy I knew in high school got me interested in the rescue squad. When I was 17 I took a class offered by my high school called fire science. Found out I was more interested in fire than ems so at 19 joined a local vol. co. and quit rescue squad. Been there since.

[smokeyben1]

I joined the local Fire brigade in 1984 after a friend of my father aproached me and asked if I would be interestd as I lived and worked in my home town of 1500 people. Anyway I joined the brigade and after about 2 years took over engine keeping duties from the chap who asked me to join as he was being forced to quit due to ill health. I then transferred to a neigbouring station in a bigger town which had a career officer attached and moved there as well. In that time we were involved in everything that could fly the flag for the Fire brigade which I thought was absolutely brilliant. It was the officer attached to this station that inspired me to join full time as he truely loved the job and made it fun to be in as well. It took 2 attempts at the entrance exams to get in, that was 10 years ago and I have 20 plus left to go. Stay safe Smokey

[BucksEng91]

Like many of you, had family in the service. My father was a Philadelphia firefighter for 30 years after leaving the Marine Corps. I was and am proud of him and the things that he did, plus I got to hang around the station once in a while (once you see those rigs up close, especially as a kid, there's no turning back!).

Then, of course, there's the usual...a steady diet of Johnny and Roy and the guys at Station 51, plus innumerable summer days spent "rescuing" other kids from burning jungle gyms and treeforts... http://www.firehouse.com/forums/biggrin.gif

For whatever reason you do this job...thanks for being a brother or sister in the service.

Stay safe!

[SHCoTrk531]

I'm a third generation volunteer. My grandfather was a past chief as well as my father. My father is also a retired paid chief with the Veterans Admin. I have a younger brother who has been in for 5yrs. I'm just a late bloomer I guess. I always knew that I would be a volley. I have been in for almost a year and kick myself all the time for not doing it sooner.

Be Safe and protect each other!!

[DED1645]

This may sound stupid, but I really don't know. I've always have been a person that liked to help others. No one in my family was ever involved in the service prior to me. I had cousins in another state that are involved with EMS, but that's all I can think of. I do recall at a very young age riding my bike to the fire house when I heard the whistles go off. Was always interested to see what was going on at the firehouse and just about on a daily basis riding by the firehouse. I guess I was a so called wacker at a young age. LMAO

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David DeCant
Firefighter/NREMT-B
New Jersey, USA
Career or volunteer we are all brothers. Just feel good for the good you do for others.

[TM]

Johnny and Roy and the Gang got me intrested also I was also inspired by my cousin who is a Firefighter with the LAFD down at 9's in the Skid Row section of the city. I am only the second person in my family to become a firefighter and only the third person from both sides of the my family to get involved in Emergency Services, Two Firefighters and One Police officer

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Tim Macias
TMacias@Firehousemail.com
Engine 101

[firehat87]

When I was little we had a large grass fire on some property we had out of town. I remember the firemen letting me sit in the cabs of the firetrucks after it was over. My elementary school had a fire station on each side of it, for two different cities, and I later joined one of them. Also, my mom always read to me when I was little and I loved books about firemen like "Old No. 9" and "Sesame Street Fire Department". When my cousin joined his local VFD when I was in elementary school, that sealed the deal.

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In Omnia Paratus

[Brat]

I stopped at our local fire hall to visit with my younger brother. He and some other volunteer firefighters were working on a van they were converting to an equipment hauler. They were installing the radios and I made the mistake of telling them how to do it easier. They said that if I was so smart that I could do it. I told them that I wasn't a firefighter so I couldn't do it. They told me that could be fixed. That was on Sunday. On Monday evening I got a call to come pick up my gear, I had just volunteered. That was in 1989. The rest is history.

[Murray_Co_ff213]

Well, my best friend got me to join. We had been friends since middle school. played football together and did all the stupid stuff teenagers do. The day he turned 18 he joined. He tried to get me to join, but I told him it was stupid. Well after listening to him talk about all the fun he had for 1 year I finally gave up and told him "ok I'll join for a few weeks just to prove I tryed it then leave" Well I never left after the first call I fell in love with it. I never realised how good helping people would make me feel.That was in febuary of 99. Greg and I were at differnt stations, but we ran so many calls together We joke about joining each other's station. All that ended this last Nov,12 When Greg lost a year long battle with leukemia. Now I stay with the Fire dept for 2 reasons 1 for the love of the job, and in honor of my best friend and Brother.

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Derek

[Fireboy422]

Yeah, I kinda have the same old story, my Grandfather and Great Uncle were both Firefighters for the same department I am now, but that's not really what got me hooked.

My high school has a mentoring program, through which Seniors are able to take an hour from school and go work with people in the field they thought they were interested in. If you want to know if it works, 7 out of the last 10 mentor students are now firefighters for our department, two of the others are not on because of budget problems and one just didn't work out.

The program was a great experience for me, it gave me a real world chance too see what the job was all about. Plus it's a great opportunity for the department as well. They were able to get a look at me as a prospective employee, and it's great PR.

There is also the Explorer Program through the Boy Scouts of America. Don't judge it before you see it at work, the Scouting program is great in these arias, even if the person (male or female) isn't interested in the regular Scout stuff.

I f anybody is interested in knowing more about these programs, let me know

-FF D. Betka

[smokeater-n-hellraiser]

What would a post like this be without a little mischief involved?
For the first, oh, seven years of my life, all I ever wanted was to be a surgen. You know, wear cool masks, fix people, make tons of money. My mother was, and still is a career RN, so I always grew up with the blood and gore stories. ( Grosses out my sister and father. SCORE!!) My father, on the other hand, is an engineer. No, not like Dilbert. Older, more like the Pointy Haired Boss, really.
Anyway, so I always wanted to be a surgeon, right? Well, then came the day I discovered this box of matches on the counter that I could now see over. Not being COMPLETLY stupid, I opened up our manual fireplace, and started to experiment. I would strike a match, watch it burn, blow it out, drop it, and light the next one. Went through a brand new pack of matches like this.
Then my folks came home. And I tell you guys, nothing compares to PO'd parents for a good, ole' fashioned ass chewin'.
However, this did not have quite the effect on me they had hoped for. I was fascinated listening to them describe what that one little match could do. Man, that was cool.
So, from then on, every chance I got, I would have a camp fire, or a fire in the fire place, or just go buy a lighter at the 7-11. Just to watch the way the Animal danced. Man, I could sit and watch that for hours. ( Okay, okay, I know, but who can honestly say that they don't have just a bit of pyromania? Especially FF's. Come on, be honest.)
As time wore on, I grew older, and I found out that there were not that many carrear tracks for an arsonist. But, there was this incrediable job were I would still be involved in fire, I would be able to be out in the World, and not stuck at a desk, and best of all, I could get paid to slide down a shiny brass pole.
So, here I am, a freshman getting a double degree in Fire Science, and then it's on to the Big BFD. Peace be with you all.

------------------
"I hate it when someone says something is impossible, because then I have to go and find a way to do it."
Stay safe, boys and girls. It's for keeps out there.

[RJE]

I, too, grew up in the station, but for a slightly different reason.

When I was 7 or 8, we moved to the suburbs (urban flight syndrome). We didn't even know we had a volunteer fire dept. Then one day, a pumper pulled off a side street in front of us while on the way to the store. They were returning from a call, and someone had left a complete SCBA on the tailboard.

Of course, first bump it fell off. My dad picked it up, followed them to the station, and gave it back. That's when he found out they were volunteer, and he joined the next week. For the rest of the story, see my post in the "what else have you dropped off the truck..." thread.

[pfpchief]

plain and simple my dad.he has been a member of my fire company for 38 years. he was the chief for 4 years. now i am the chief

[Firelover]

Quite honestly I have no idea what got me started either. http://www.firehouse.com/forums/redface.gif I barely knew that volunteer ff even existed. Can you believe that? My uncle was a volunteer with the same department that I am now, but I only found that out after the fact. If I had to really choose a reason, I would have to say that it's because of my GrandFather. He was a Fireman with the Airport here in Moncton. So I think that's why, or at least that's my reason.

Until next time.

------------------
Joel

If you sent us to HELL, WE'D PUT IT OUT!!

[FF/EMTSPANBAUER]

It all started young.

Like many others, I always turned my head, and perked my ears when I heard the sirens screaming and the air-horns blasting. I had my first tour of a firehouse when I was five, and a very close family friend was the Chief of my hometown.

From there it was destiny. I followed every fire truck I ever came upon, untill the age of 16. Put my application in, started taking classes, and within a month I knew it was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.

We are an elite group, striving to learn just a little bit more every day, so that we can go out in this world and do our jobs just that much better. The relationships we make are life-long, and the services we provide are never forgotten.

------------------
--Stay Safe, and Remember our Fallen Brothers and Sisters; John

[AZ3 Erik Prager]

I must give credit to the military for my turnover to firefighting. I joined the Navy as an Admin rating (AZ), thinking that I'd be perfectly happy sitting behind a desk, and doing paperwork all day. I got to my first ship (USS Independence CV-62), that was my first introduction to firefighting. I was waling from chow one night, and all of a sudden the ship's bell started ringing, and the call of a fire rang out. From behind me, I heard a lot of yelling to get out of the way, I slammed myself against the bulkhead and watched with amazement as a group of sailors wearing red hats raced down the passageway. I knew then that's what I wanted to do. I didn't get a chance onboard the Indy, but when I got the Kitty Hawk, the first thing I did was ask if I could volunteer for the Flying Squad. After proving myself, I was accepted, and I am currently trying to convert ratings to Damage Controllman.

AZ2 Erik Prager

------------------
USS Kitty Hawk(CV-63)
Flying Squad
"Freedom's Firefighters"

***These statements do not neccessarily reflect the views of my command, the US Navy, or the US Government. They are strictly my own.

[ABrown]

I started thinking about the fire department when one of the local stations got a call right across the street from my house. Since I knew one of my teachers was a firefighter I asked him what happened. He told me it was a automatic alarm, then asked if I was interested in joining my local station Brunnerville Fire Department, at the time I wasn't because I was to young and I didn't think it would be fun... I WAS WRONG! Once I got into high school some of my friends were junior firefighters and they got me interested in it. I joined a few weeks later, and have been a member for about 3/4 of a year now and have been enjoying the experience ever since.

[Gill]

I've always wanted to help people. I got into a junior fire program at a local volunteer department in Upstate New York. After about a month, the bug bit me. I guess I saw it as a great way to help people. 4 months after joining, I had to move to another state and subsequently had to quit. But I knew that this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. So I got on track, kept my nose clean, worked hard, and here I am...working for the best fire department in the state of Kansas.

------------------
I LOVE THIS JOB!

[johnny3773]

I was always envious of firefighters even at a young age, but there was a time where my life was going no where. I joined the local volunteer dept. and it actually turned my life around. I worked hard and eventually
made chief at a fairly young age. Shortly after, my job with the government ( not fire related) was downsized and it gave me the opportunity to seek full time employment with a city dept. Losing my job was the best thing to ever happened to me.

[caza_28]

well i was asked to vol. and after exp. what i did in the navy i was ready and willing

[FFTaz71]

I had several factors that influenced my getting into the fire service. While firefighting had been in my family with my mom's uncles, who were founding members of a dept near here, when I got into the fire service there was nobody in my family actively involved. Now I have 3 cousins, my father and myself who are ffs.
I grew up watching Emergency and Code Red as a kid for one thing and I wanted to be like those guys. Secondly my neighbor was a fireman at the station in our neighborhood. Funny thing, while most of you say you went to the firehouse to see the trucks, in our neighborhood the trucks always came to us. My neighbor seemed to arrange for at least one or two visits to his house every week and subsequently his house became a mecca for the neighborhood kids. When he retired, the trucks still came but not as often and eventually stopped which ended any influence on me for some time.
When the time came, I began to work on my Girl Scout Gold Award which is similar to the Eagle Scout Award. I had to find a project to do that related to a career I wanted to get into. Plus my project also urged joining a group that was related to a chosen career field, hence my finding out about Explorer Scouts and my first actual involvement in the fire service. Secretly, my mom and dad prayed I would find out how hard it is and change my mind all the while having the infinite wisdom to let me find out for myself whether I liked it or not. It became obvious as my involvement each year into explorers increased, that their hopes were not going to be realized. Sometimes my dad would chase fire calls with me if we were out and saw a truck go by but that was a rarity. My project for my Gold involved visibility of house numbers to drivers of emergency vehicles and our post's hosting dept stood behind me and helped in whatever ways I asked of them. I spent 5 years in the Explorer program and after a year of college I joined as an active firefighter at 19. That was 11 years ago.. Ive been involved in marine fire/rescue and most recently got involved in fire/rescue in motorsports at a track near where I live. Subsequent to my getting in the fire dept, I actually got my dad involved as well..kind of a reverse trend. He is now an Asst Chief with his dept and has been with them for 8 years. So, it looks like the fire service bug, although it had been dormant in our family for almost 2 generations, has another stronghold on us again.

[Trukkie_24]

The T.V. show Emergency! defiantly influenced me into becoming a firefighter. My fater was a city police officer and when my grandmother babysat me, I would watch every episode of Emergency!. It has even influenced me to pursue my Paramedic certification.

[dimab]

I waited 6 months before I handed in my applicaton, thinking why the hell was I going to get up in the middle of the night to go help someone else!? Best thing I have ever done, joined and love it.
I was first coerced into filling out an applicaition by my friend who just got in, his father was in also. I filled it out so he'd stop bugging me, and look what he's gotten me into ?! Thanks.

[gcambrider]

I have gotten into the fire dept. late in life compared to most. It never crossed my mind as a teen. I took a career profile test before going into a major for college and laughed at the firefighter or drill instructor suggestions.
However, at 37 years old I was almost a part of a traffic accident involving a fatality. I had held an up-to-date CPR/first aid card for 10 years and ran to the assistance of those involved. I was more disgusted at the gawkers on their cell phones giving frantic details to their friends and co-workers than by the blood and gore around me. At this point I realized there was something I should be doing with this "gift" to not be bothered by a hectic, horrid situation. From there I joined the fire dept for the EMS program and will be taking my FF1 courses also!
This has not been easy for me a wife and mother of 2 with a full time job and other already establisted volunteer activities (I am a Girl Scout Leader). Taking the classes and keeping up with the rest of the demands of kids lives and keeping up my home. My husband has no desires to also join however, if it were not for him taking over many of my duties at home and for the kids (the drive me to this and pick me up from thats) I could not do this. I have joined a very family friendly station and my kids may be a next generation, who knows!
I am submitting this post for the rest of the over 30 crowd who think they are too old to start into this kind of life. It is very rewarding and it will give your kids a place to go as they become teens where they will not be going astray.

[BayRidge60]

I was one of those kids that was always awe inspired whenever a firetruck went racing by. Being that there was a career department in the city that I grew up in, I joined one of the volunteer companies in the neighboring town when I was 20. Here I am at 27 and now that it's in my blood, I can't ever imagine not doing it.

------------------
Glenn Ralston
Firefighter/EMT-D
Bay Ridge Fire-Rescue
Queensbury, New York
The views represented here are mine and mine alone.

[AZ FIRE/MEDIC/HMT]

I started in the fire service the summer after I graduated from high school in 1977 with the USDA Forest Service working on a wildland engine on the Tonto National Forest in AZ.

The next season I was hired on to a Hot Shot Crew in Flagstaff AZ and spent 7 seasons on the crew.

I was then hired by the City of Flagstaff and have been there ever since (going on 23 years of fire service experience now)

Along the way I became a Paramedic, Haz Mat Tech, Technical Rescue Technician, Fire Academy Instructor and EMT Instructor. All this in addition to being the Vice President of IAFF Local 1505 and the District 1 Trustee for the Professional Fire Fighters of Arizona.

------------------
Dave Manning
IAFF Local 1505 VP

[BiancaSancic]

My involvement in the fire service started with my job as a newspaper reporter. I spent a year chasing firefighters and cops around town. The volunteer department chief asked if I wanted to join. It sounded interesting, but since I was a pencil pusher I didn't really give it much thought, until the house caught fire.

I awoke to the smoke detector and the smell of smoke. Wandered into the kitchen and opened the bedroom door. There was this wall of flames on the other side of the room (where the closet and bathroom used to be. Oh, and yes the fire extinguisher) and thick black smoke. Closed the doors and ran to the neighbor's house. The city and county departments responded and saved about half the mobile home.

I was hooked. I wanted to have a little control over my environment. Now, instead of wanting to be the next Barbara Walters I want to be the first woman to get on the local paid department. They are a wonderful group of guys.

I love my volunteer dept, and wouldn't trade them for the world.

As I approach my one year anniversary with the volunteers, I am honored every time we go on a call.

[ffirefighter]

Originally posted by canman:
I Just wanted to hear how people got started in the fireservice,ie:was it an uncle or maybe your dad that was or still is a firefighter that influenced you to do the same.Could it have been the t.v. show Emergency? Or the thrill of seeing those galliant firefighters on those big Red engines when you were a kid and wanted to be a part of them.Well here goes my story,when I was a kid my mom used to take me to the Vol. dept. in my town alot and show me the trucks. Then when we moved to the city she still cont. to take me to the fire station so I'd have to say it was her that influenced me to join the fireservice. So would you please be so kind as to reply.

I got started in firefighting when I was 18. Allot of my friends were in a local vollunteer fire department, including my boyfriend, so I was always hanging out there. When one of my female friends was thinking of joining, we decided to join together.

[ffirefighter]

Originally posted by canman:
I Just wanted to hear how people got started in the fireservice,ie:was it an uncle or maybe your dad that was or still is a firefighter that influenced you to do the same.Could it have been the t.v. show Emergency? Or the thrill of seeing those galliant firefighters on those big Red engines when you were a kid and wanted to be a part of them.Well here goes my story,when I was a kid my mom used to take me to the Vol. dept. in my town alot and show me the trucks. Then when we moved to the city she still cont. to take me to the fire station so I'd have to say it was her that influenced me to join the fireservice. So would you please be so kind as to reply.

I got started in firefighting when I was 18. Allot of my friends were in a local vollunteer fire department, including my boyfriend, so I was always hanging out there. When one of my female friends was thinking of joining, we decided to join together.

[fieryred]

I would have to say that the Department as a whole is what got me started. Sure I have friends who are Fire Fighters and they have told me of the job they do. My family is a family of RCMP and military. I thought of trying both but the Fire Department seem to call out more.

Because there is no "I" in Team, I could think of nothing more than working with a group of individuals that had the same goal in mind.

That led me to 8 months of intense and exhausting training in Fire Fighting & EMT. A week after graduation...I now work with a fantastic crew and a great department.

I couldn't imagine doing anything else.

Take care & stay safe



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[This message has been edited by fieryred (edited 12-19-2000).]

[TomK]

My grandfather was a FT firefighter, West Side Hose Company, Steelton, PA. for 50 + years !!!!!! Needless to say no manditory retirement age in the 60's. My father is a retired vol. FF, my uncle was a white hat for decades, my oldest brother is a white hat in PA., most of my cousins are in the fire service. Me, I am just a plain old call firefighter( only 25 years so far) and loving it. Needless to say the Fire Service is in my blood.
Be Safe my Brothers and Sisters !!!

[Lt.Tim]

My Dad and Uncle were members of the Delaware Township Fire Department, Lansing, Kansas. When I was a kid Dad would take me to the station once in a while. This is what got me started but then I read Dennis Smith's book, "Report from Engine Co. 82" and I knew then for certain what I wanted to do in life. About a year after I graduated from High School I became a member of Delaware Township Fire Department, that was in 1979. I am now a Lieutenant with that department. In 1982 I started with a contract fire service at Kansas City International Airport. Then in 1985 I was hired by Fort Leavenworth Fire Department, which I am still a member riding "tailboard" as a firefighter. This is an Army base that is home to the "Command and General Staff College" and the United States Disciplinary Barracks. I feel very lucky to be doing what I wanted to become as a kid, not everyone gets that chance. I also feel that I was meant to do this job.
To all my brothers and sisters in the Fire Service take care and keep up the good work in this noble profession.

------------------
Tim Mondero
Lieutenant/Delaware Township Volunteer Fire Dept.
Firefighter/Fort Leavenworth F.D.

[MassFireMedic]

Well, I can remember as kid going to every fire station I could find. I would always jump on every rig I could, whip up every Federal Q, awe at the guys in the station. Firefighting has been in blood as far back as I can trace. On my father's side it started in Ireland, went to Boston and stayed there for 3 generations. On my mother's side it has always been in New Bedford, MA and ended about two generations ago. Then there was me. I always knew that I had lineage on the job, and that may have been what attracted me to it initially. I started off with a Federal Dept at 18 and have had a windy course since then. I came to realize the importance of being a paramedic to get hired, saw how city policies on affirmitave action worked against me in some cases(only in Florida)and found myself becoming more determined than I ever imagined. I have been on both sides of the vollie/paid issue. I have seen my share of ignorance and old-boy networks in both types. But in the end, I could never imagine doing anything else but this job. If anyone out there is working to get on a dept., my advice to you is to never give up. This can be one of the hardest and most rewarding professions you could ever choose. Good luck, be safe and happy holidays to you all!

[fflynn17]

Due to my job, I have moved around a lot. I decided that this was my last move, so I looked for a way to put some roots down in the community, along with a way to keep active. Many of the people that I work with were in the fire service, and from what they described, it sounded fun and challenging. I have only been in 2 years, but the dept. I am in is busy, so I am having a riot and learning a lot.

------------------

[Adler]

I was about 8 or 9. Investigating the wonderful gift the call "fire" with a book of matches in the hayloft of our old farm. Yep, you guessed it. I had a whole box of matches and was tired of burning them individually. So I started lighting whole books...Did you know that when you light them and they catch on fire, they have a tendency to burn your little fingers?? Well, they do, and I dropped the matches...To make a long story short, the firemen looked fantastic. I can remember them coming down the gravel road with lights and sirens. They looked awesome. Then they pulled up and began battling the huge, hot fire. I knew at that point I wanted to be in the industry. It is not as glossy as some stories, but it is the truth. That reminds me, after 16 or 17 years, do you think it is safe to tell me dad that I burned his barn and 1958 classic (I believe it was an allis chalmers, but don't quote me on that). Good Luck, Stay Safe, and Happy Holidays all!! http://www.firehouse.com/forums/smile.gif

[302CO30]

When I moved to West Virginia in 1982 we were just opening the Canaan Valley station of the Davis VFD. At the time we were undermanned and my boss conscripted me. We had our first FF I in the summer of that year. Two years after, we were chartered by the State as the Canaan Valley VFD. (Many thanks to the members of the Davis VFD). I am now the President/Asst. Chief. I wish I enjoyed my paying job as much!
Sandy Green

[Monstermudder78]

For me it was just in my blood. My Grandfather was a volunteer for around 30 years, my grandma worked the radio up until 5 months ago, my dad is Asst. Chief, and I am just finishing up my rookie year. For about 7 months at the beginning of this year my family had 3 generations active on the same department at the same time.
When I was little and the tone would go off, there was nothing I wanted more than to be able to run out the door with my Dad. Now I finally can and I love every minute of it. Nothing is better than fighting fire with your own dad, only one year and we already have some great memories.

[gls779]

My step father was in the rescue squad. when I turned 18 I joined,"lights and sirens"....
After watching the vol. firefighters at several fires I joined the fire co. been there as a FF/EMT for 11 yrs. Just became a forest fire fighter 2 yrs ago.
I love it!!!!!!!!

------------------
CYA

[Leftbank68]

I have wanted to be in the FD for as long as I can remember. My Father was in the FD long before I was born, and is still active with his dept.

I would watch Dad go out on calls, running to the station, as we were a block away, until the station moved to new quarters across the street from us. I can still remember hearing the tones, and his jumping up to get out and go do whatever was needed. To me, that was just the coolest thing, to give your time to your community, to help those that needed help.

I wanted to join when I was 18, but females were still having problems, so I said I would wait, because I wanted to get in on my own, not by having a judge say they had to let me in. Well, in 1998, my dream came true, and I am a member of the FD.

I wasn't sure Dad would be happy that his Little Girl was a Firefighter, but I know that he is happy, he's accepted what I do, and I am very proud of all that he has done in the 38 yrs he's been a Firefighter.

Both of my children want to join the FD when they are old enough, and if that is what they want, I'm going to back them up.

[fire69dawg]

I got started like many others, tradition. My dad started when he was 18 and was a volly for almost 24 years. He retired as district chief of the same department I belong to. I have been a member now for almost 9 years and I love it. My time goes into the department. I enjoy helping the community. When I first joined I thought it would be nice to help others. But once ya get started, its addicting. One day I hope to do it as a career, but until then I will stay as active as possible. My brother is a member and I would try and talk others into joining as well.

[pcole]

I was drafted into the fire service! Graduated high school in 1964 and went to work. The local VFD stopped one day to welcome us to the neighborhood, as was their custom.
Well my mother told them she didn't have any money to donate right then but had a son that wasn't doing anything. When I got home that night she told me they would be stopping by to signed me up.
My career started then, 9 years as a volunteer and just retired as a career
Platoon Chief with 27 years in a different department.
It was the best thing that ever happened to me. God bless Mum.
Happy Holidays to all......Pete

[fire4whfd]

I am a fourth generation, female, junior (6 months in counting to full volli)firefighter. My great grandfather was a founding father of a company in my town, my grandfather followed him as a life member, and my father followed him. As a child I spent many of days, nights, and storms in the station and at the calls. Because of my age, i am not old enough to join the company of my previous fathers, however i have joined as a junior at a township station. Brought in by a fellow co worker, i am destined to never quit and do all i can in the fire field (any suggestions for fire science colleges?) and to join my fathers company in may as the first female in the department. So to answer this question in short, i would have to say my friend and father continue to lead me in my fire services.

[Mikeyfire]

I also got started with watching emergency I don't really have the desire for the paramedic aspect but I might not have a choice living in so cali. But you never know but to anybody who is reading this you can't get frustrated and give up I have tested so many times I can't remember each time I get a little farther so eventually I'll be getting paid big money to ride on the big engine or truck

------------------
Stay low

[REBCHIEF702]

I got hooked on the fire service back in the early 70's when I did my junior year high school English term paper on the fire service. I joined my department at age 18, that was 1974, and have been doing it ever since. I have held every office in the department and I am now moving up the ranks of Chief. I will be a Deputy Chief for the year 2001, with all hopes of being Chief of Department in 2003. I am the first in my family to be a firefighter. My day was a Police Officer in our town, retiring in 1980 after 27 years on the job. My 16 year old son became a NJ certified EMT this past summer and rides for his ambulance corps in Saddle Brook. My 15 year old son wants to join his local junior firefighter squad when he turns 16, (only if his grades are good, Dad's rules). I have enjoyed my 26 years in the department and look forward to the future.

[Wally57fire]

this month was 6 months, and let me say even though im a junior i have been treated like one of the guys. Anyway I grew up across the street from our station 1. I rember beeing in kindergarden and watchin the trucks leave for a really bad structure fire at the local egg farm and from that point on i knew i too would join the fire department. As soon as i could ride my bike i would ride down the street on my bike chaseing them down the sidewalk. Its just something i always wanted to do and now im doing it.

[Smoke286]

I was looking for some type of comunity work to do ,many years ago, My girlfriend's boss was the local volunteer fire cheif, I went down one night to check it out and they had me signed up before I know what had happened. That eventually led to a career in the fire service.that was 17 years ago, who'd a thunk it?

[LilRascal442]

Hope you're ready to read. :-) I grew up not far fom a fire station, and there were a few apartment buildings in the area that were fire traps also. Every time Engine 3 and the crew would respond near my house, I would go running down the street to where they were and as they were picking up, they would let a lot of the kids climb on the trucks and try on some gear.
I can't remember when I started running through the house everytime I heard sirens (I admit I still peek out the window when I hear trucks going by).
I was always fascinated by firefighters. There are several people in my family who volunteered for a while, but none who stayed in as long as they could have. I think what mostly got me into it is all the great experiences I had as a kid. Be it through Cub Scouts or just a call down the street, I never had a disheartening experience.
Even though it was always my dream, being a firefighter kind of went to the back of my mind around high school. I knew a couple ppl in Explorers, but didn't think much about myself being one. Most of you will laugh, but the movie Backdraft actually rekindled my desire for it. As fake as it is, it just made something inside click.
After high school, I enlisted in the USMC and the first question I asked my recruiter was what's available in firefighting. I went in as a guaranteed Crash Crewman. A lot of people I served with didn't care much for it, but I absolutely loved it. I had a great time at the academy, even if it was tougher than boot camp.
After I got out, I got a job at the Airport FD, but thanks to Civil Service, wasn't there very long.
I took a few months off, wondering what my exact reasons for being a FF were. I decided whether I'm in it for the right reasons or not, I've never missed anything as much as I did firefighting, so I became a volunteer. I've been a voli for just a couple months, and I'm trying like hell to get back in it full-time. Someday I will, and I plan on staying until they kick me out.
I worked with several guys at the AFD who volunteered on top of working full time in the FD. To me, that right there says it all. What other job do you know of that people volunteer to do the same thing they already do for almost 80 hours a week?
Happy holidays and stay safe all.
http://www.geocities.com/dopeymike_77/

[Rj Newell]

I think there is a few things that got me interested. My grandfather was in our volunteer fire company when it was just started and my Father and has been in it for 30 years. i guess it just runs in my blood.
The second reason is when I was a little kid i could hear the siren from my house so I would always ride my bike over there. I would see the trucks roll out and our chief power shifting the tanker. The sound of sirens and all the excitement made me love firefighting. Seeing this made me know I wanted to join and be part of it all.

R.J. Newell
Station 14
Salem Co. NJ

[JD]

I can still see the moment in my mind's eye as if it were painted on glass. The local fire company came to my school during fire prevention week. I was enthralled by the larger than life fire engine, the herculian fireman, the chance to squirt the firehose, and being given my very own deputy firemarshall's badge. At age seven I was hooked. I knew that when I grew up I would be a fireman.
Sometime later we had a small fire in our home. Seeing the fireman working in my house only cemented my resolve. As I grew a bit older, Roy and Johnny came into my home every week to remind me of my calling.
I've now been a volunteer firefighter for going on 15 years. To me it's the purest, nobelst vocation there is. Like any love affair, it can at times be difficult. I once even walked away from it for six months. Now I'll be one to my very last alarm, hoping that there is a hook for me in the big station in the sky. There goes another alarm. Duty calls so I'm off again! Stay safe my brothers and sisters.

[RyanEMVFD]

My father, grandfather and brother in law were all firefighters at one time or another and I naturally got into firefighting. A friend of mine was the Chief of the volunteer department where I lived and he got me started there. Now I'm the Training Officer of the dept and work in the EMS field.

[stffa]

My father was and still is a fire fighter. My Brother has served for almost 10 years. Proud to serve now

[stffa]

When my father served, 25 years ago, he saved a captain, who fell through the roof. My dad was a probie. This year, he saved a 71 year old man from a bedroom fire. If I could be half the fire fighter my dad is,

[bhp6115]

I am the first in hopefully a long line of firefighters. I got interested in firefighting when I was 4 years old. My grandmother took me to the local fire dept. for a pancake breakfast fundraiser. The firemen showed me around and put me up on the engine.From then on I what I wanted to be. Of course re-runs of Emergency! helped fuel the fire. When i became a senior in High School I participated in a cadet program. Now I have eight years in the fire service as a part-time member of a growing local fire department. We have progressed from paid on call members to being staffed 24 hrs a day with four part time members in house at all times. I have also achieved the rank of engineer and hope to continue to move foward.I am still testing for a full time position and am making progress. One thing to everybody out there that wants to make this there career. Keep at it. It is sometimes a slow process but it all pays off in the end. Watch each others backs out there. And remember it dosen't matter if your career, volunteer, or part time, We all work together to achieve the most important goal. Going home after your shift. Be safe.

[Lt.TwoDogs-905A]

I grew up watching John and Roy do it in L.A. and I grew up knowing some of the local paramedics as my mom worked at the local hospital in the blood bank and she was friends with several of them . In fact one in particular became like an older brother to me and my kid brother.I can remember sitting at the dinner table and hearing the yelp of the siren as Jim would pull his rig into the driveway,then he and his partner would burst thrugh the door into our kithen and he'd say "what's for dinner mom?" inveriably they wouldn't get to sit very long befor they were toned out for a run and i'd leap up to watch as they rolled down the the street code-3!! Wow! as a teenager that was so cool! Later when I was seventeen and close to my eighteenth B-=day I told brother Jim I wanted to be an EMT and he said "put your money were your mouth is kid" so I spent my savings and some money from mom and went....that was in 1981, I became a paramedic in 1991, and I'm what you might consider one of the old guys at the station .I love doing both fire and ems,although the ems side is what we run the most of. I think both the T.V. show EMERGENCY and brother Jim are the two greatest influences I had in getting into emergency service.

[Cliff Montgomery]

As many others, I was born with the desire to be a Firefighter. My Grandfather was Fire Chief at the local Volunteer Fire Department for many years. My father as well as many other family members on both sides were active in both volunteer and career departments. I joined a local Volunteer Department at 16 and became a career firefighter at 19. I left my home town at 26 when I was selected for a career Fire Chief's position in another state. I have recently formed a new volunteer fire department this year. I plan to continue both career and volunteer services until I cant no longer.

[Ninevehfire146]

I goot started back in 1982 when my cousin and I went to visit his fire dept. station. After an hour or so of looking at the trucks and talking, he asked if I was interested in joining. Of course my answer was yes. Now, 29 years later, I am a firefighter / emt in a fire dept 400 miles from where I got my start. I have plans on working with my son, when he becomes of age. I hope to be in a father / son team at that time.

[parisfireops]

My dad was on our home town vol. for 20 yrs dept. and I always wanted too. But I joined the service (AF) and was to become an Air traffic controller but since I had been in basic training before with the Army, I had a chance to stay and wait until that group of basic trainies finished or go to my second option fire protection. Since I really didn't want to go having 2 basic training's in my life I chose my second option. I havn't had any ill regrets and I ended up doing the same job as a civilian with the state military dept. and also serve back in my home town vol. dept. that my dad served on.

[E91]

I got started after my college basketball carrier ended. It was looking for a carrier field and found FFing. The sister college I was attending had one of only two Full-time college run fire departments in California, (Columbia College FD). We worked 2 on and four off. This program boasts an extremely high success rate with almost everyone landing a Full-time job out of College. I am currently enjoying my carrier as a professional firefighter. Keep up the good work CCFD, and test, test, test future firefighters. It only took me about 30 tests that covered 9 states to land my dream job.

[CFW657]

It is no surpise to alot of FF. I always wanted to be a FireFighter from the time I could walk and watch TV. Emergency (Squad 51) had a great impact on me. Then when I turned 14 the Fire Department in the city I lived started a Fire Explorer program and that was the Gas on the Fire. I was hooked and had swallowed it deep. I am currently a Fire Fighter of 7 yrs and a Paramedic of 10 and I love my job. I could not have picked a better proffesion in which I have such a impact on the community. I love to help and this is the best job to have....

[firefighter26]

My father was the deputy chief and one weekend we got back to back to back calls, two of them required mutial aid because the department was short handed. I joined the next day. Figured, since I already knew all the guys and most of the equipment I may as well start early (I was 17 and our regs say you have to be 18 with consent, 19 without). I didn't get to go on the trucks unless not enough people showed up. If I was left behind, I manned the radio room.

[RFD220]

I was talked into joining our volunteer department after I told a member that I wanted to start EMT class and apply to a paid EMS provider. He said try it out as a vollie first and see if you like it. Well I made application to the department and somehow got roped into doing firefighting as well. Well 7 years later I finally got around to my EMT certification and got on the job for a local EMS provider and quit it soon afterwards. I found I was a much better firefighter than EMT. Now on the anniversary of my 9th year I am Captain of my company and couldn't be happier.

------------------
Jeffrey D. Grey-Captain
Roosevelt Fire District-Hyde Park,N.Y.

[This message has been edited by RFD220 (edited 01-21-2001).]

[LAWIlson]

My father and several other family members were involved in the volunteer fire service before I was born. As I first recall My father was a 1st Lieutenant, my grandfather was the Asst. Chief, an uncle was 2nd Lieutenant and the tree goes on. So I guess firefighting is in the family blood. I began riding with the Ladies Auxiliary taking sandwiches and drinks to fires. As I got older I began to help roll and clean hose and put apparatus back into service (of course at that time there was no SCBA to clean and refill). I still remember the time that I ask what was in that green box in the back compartment of the pumper(as they were called then). I was told not to concern myself with that because we don't use it; it was a SCBA. Anyway, when I was 14 the department established an Explorer Program which was made up mostly of my brother and cusins, but there were a few others as well. As an explorer and after we received the appropriate training we were able to perform all duties except interior attack. When I turned 18 I became a regular member. I later joined the military where I was a firefighter both in the military and the community inwhich I lived and stayed after getting out of the military. For the sake of time; I worked I worked up through the ranks in the volunteer department to become an Asst. Chief. I later took a fulltime position as a firefighter in the Fort Bragg area. There I worked my way through the ranks to become the Fire Chief. I now have 27+ years in the fire service and have enjoyed the ability to help people in their time of need. Currently my brother is the leader arson investigator for a municipal department near our home town. most all of my cusins are still involved in our hometown department. I guess you could say "It's a Family Tradition"

[Engine11]

For my its a family thing.Both my grandfathers were members.Also my father and my uncle are members each holding positions either Lt or Capt at various times.My other uncle and myself were jrs together.Now being a member for past 5 years and being a lt for the past 3 years its been well worth it.I'm glad my family was in the fire service because if they weren't i probably woundn't be

[SilverCity4]

In 1996, my little rural community got hit harder than usual with wildfire. It happened every year, buy 1996 was real bad. While we were out helping fight fire with rakes and burlap bags (again), my dad said,”We need a fire department out here.”

Well, being 19 and not knowing any better, I decided we’d just form a department up. Ten months later, we became operational. I joined because I started the fuss about the whole business. Five years later and I’m working at getting on full-time in the Tulsa area.

Didn’t find out until after we were working on forming the department that my Grandfather had been a Captian in Germantown, TN. He’s the Chief of our volunteer department now.

If you had told me six years ago that I would be a firefighter, I would have laughed. I had never considered it. The closest I had come to anything related to emergency services was 1) getting a CPR card and 2) being stopped for speeding by the Highway Patrol.

[crashbgfdchick]

I became interested in EMS in 1999 when my cousin and his fiancee were murdered by an intruder in their apartment in Columbus OH, and I knew some of the paramedics who reported to the scene to try to save them. But living in a big city where volly departments don't exist, I really couldn't contribute. So until I joined a service myself, I held those Paramedics in the highest regard, and prayed for them when they couldn't save Patrick and Loretta

I finally became involved in the FD in 2000 at the encouragement of other FFs in my apartment complex when I moved to Wisconsin from Columbus,(we nickname it Firefighter Subsidized Housing...a 12 unit complex with 4 FFs). I originally just wanted to do EMS - being from Columbus and having friends in CFD, there was a "negative" air about women in the FD from those I knew. But in Madison, its just not like that. Since EMS school wasn't offered until later in the year, I went to Fire School and fell in love. Boy, would I have missed out if I didn't go to fire school!

Firefighting and EMS put my life in perspective. I learned through helping others and teamwork that money and ritzy salaried jobs aren't what's important - its the richness of your life and feeling of contribution. In fact, I quit a very comfortable high salary job as a retail buyer, and went back to school for a second degree - nursing. I still work as a FF/EMT, and love it. Even my friends with CFD have provided me with a lot of encouragement, as my uncle and cousin (a FF in Las Vegas, and EMT in the Air Guard, respectively). I'm blessed to be with a fire department where continuous training is encouraged and rewarded, and to work with firefighters who genuinely care and pull for eachother. And the memory of Patrick helps me through every EMS call, and guided me through my first PNB - a 21 year-old who shot himself in the chest.

Whether I work as a career FF/EMT or unpaid (I hope to be a burn trauma or ER nurse after graduation), as long as firefighting is in my life, it'll be complete.

[shammrock54]

Lets see father,mother,grandfather,cous ins,uncles,and neighbors were all involved. got intrested in '96 when i talked to guys who i knew and were explorers, so @ 14 y/o i signed up as an explorer, the day after i turned 18 got put on the dept, got my emt and here i am. :D

[mtnfyre21]

well i first aswnerewd this post back on 9-26-2000
my father is a career firefighter with 20 years in his career dept. and 25 years in our volly dept.i was raised around the firedept. I took my first ride in a firetruck the day i came home from the hospital.they also saved my live 5 months later. thank god for cpr.
i am thrid generation as my grandfather helped start my dept.
i am know a full fledged firefighter. i have officialy 2 years of service (6 if you count time as a jouiner) in my dept.
i have fought fire, worked wrecks, done ems and to this day there is nothing i want to do more.
i am trying to get on full time. and will volly till the day i die.
2197 10-8
god bless and care for you all

[angwilley]

Several factors that influenced me, probally the little kid in me wanting to ride the fire truck was a big one. Other things such as the wanting to help people (I know it is a cliche'), the para-military way of life, the comradary.

[Bugle3]

Well, like many of the replies go, my dad was in the department when I was just a little guy. An early picture of me when I was 3 has me standing in the bucket of the new platform on the day it was housed. I started going to weekly training with my dad when I was about 12 and the rest is history, junior when I was 16, regular member at 21 and now will be celebrating my 17th year of service in May. Guess I thought it was a worthwhile thing to do. Still love it every single day!:)

[ffemtmjb]

Two reasons. First, my dad has been a volunteer firefighter for longer than I can remember. Second, I watched way too much Emergency! when I was a kid ;)

[hotsauce102]

Mine started when I was little watching Emergency and the fascination with the trucks. One summer, when I returned from Scout camp to find out my girlfriend had been dating someone else, I saw a sign that volunteers were wanted for the local department. I joined up, and since have completed two degrees in Fire Science, and now work as a full-time firefighter. I didn't know that it would lead me here when I started, but I wouldn't trade the friendships, commeraderie, and fun for anything!

Keep safe!

[FireExplorer13]

My great- great grandfather was involved in starting the Rocky Hill Connecticut Fire Department in 1927. My great grandfather was cheif of this department from 1941-45. My grandfather was a member of Truck 1 of the same department. My 2 uncles and my dad all were on the Hebron Connecticut Fire Department. So I guess firefighting is just in my blood. I was taken to the fire station before I was taken home from the hospital when I was born. I started with the Plaistow New Hampshire Fire Explorer Post when I was 15. It has since disbanded and now I'm an explorer in Danville New Hampshire. After I graduate from college I'm going to get a full time job as a fire fighter.

[captstanm1]

My Dad was a Forest Ranger for the Virginia Department of Forestry and also a volunteer. Until he had his heart attack we volunteered together. I actually started at age 13. Was also a career firefighter. Now my son is volunteering.