The Social Network & Community JUST for Firefighters
Am I too old or short?
I am 36 and changing careers. I am in an EMS Intermediate class, and want to ask someone about joining the fire dept. after I graduate. I am 64 inches tall, and in decent shape. I have checked on the height and age requirements and have found nothing about height. Am I too short to join? Thanks.
Replies to This Discussion
-
Permalink Reply by Ron Maddox on
-
There are no requirements for highth anymore due to sue happy people. What our department does is make you place a ladder on pegs without letting it hit the ground. Be creative and make it happen. I know many guys that are "short" and are great firefighters. One is a great mentor of mine.
PS. They may not have any restrictions on hireing but they may have certain tasks that you must do.
-
Permalink Reply by rfdjumper on
-
As long as your frame can handle the work 5'4" isn't that small. I people shorter doing the job.
-
Permalink Reply by BillySFCVFD on
-
Some situations may require a smaller FF to gain entry. Heck even Winnie the Pooh got his head stuck in the honey jar. The little bear should have been used. There's a need for all sizes of FFs as long as they all can meet the standards. I say join and use your size as an advantage when you can. It's all about saving lives and property.
PS We are the same size and shape and I have 20 years on ya.
-
Permalink Reply by Jay Nicholson on
-
I just a couple of inches taller than you. Never had any problems being short. Ladders where not as easy for me though. But if you do it RIGHT, there really is no problem. At 36 I do believe you would not be eligible for federal employment. Can't get 20 years in before mandatory retirement.
-
Permalink Reply by Mike Coleman on
-
36 is certainly not too old to start a firefighting career. We have hired people older than you (and shorter!) However, you should consider your retirement age, if you have a typical 25 year retirement you would be 61. Depending on your health, you may not want to be climbing up ladders and dragging hose at that age. I would strongly encourage you to pursue a paramedic license which can also be used at the FD.
-
Permalink Reply by Guerrerita on
-
Now these are some interesting responses. I have never heard of a height requirement, but many states have an age requirement. I believe NYC accepts beginners at 29 years of age or under. I believe other areas of NY are 34 and under. Age requirements vary from state to state. I wonder if there is a list somewhere of states and the age requirements to enter fd for each...?
-
Permalink Reply by John on
-
I pretty much started at age 40 so 36 is not to old plus its a blast at least for me to run circles around the younger guys LOL just kidding. but no the only age requirements I have seen is for Cincinnati Fire where its like 35 or 36.
-
Permalink Reply by Bill on
-
Henderson Fire Dept. in Nevada(borders Las Vegas) is hiring Firefighter/Paramedics Great benefits, salary, retirement, and equipment.
www.hfdcareers.com and www.cityofhenderson.com www.hendersonfireonline.com
Please pass it along! Delete Comment
-
Permalink Reply by Dre on
-
Not too short. Most of the really excellent guys around, officers, trainers, etc. are 'smallish' guys. How just 2 of them lift 200-300 lb. people all day long is beyond me. Only 2 depts. I know of have age caps- FDNY is 35, I think Chicage has a cap on their academy age, also. If you like it, and can utilize your body well, go for it. These smaller guys are more efficient, use less air, etc. Also- yeah, get outta the heavy schlepping, hose packing drudgery before 60. Get promoted, train to drive, continue medic training, etc
-
-
Oh, and Miami has a midget. Not sure if it's the City of Miami, or Metro-Dade, but they got one, and he needs minimal accomodation as far as I know. (Like a step to the truck)
-
Permalink Reply by Fireyladd - Retired Chief Sharp on
-
Absolutely NOTTTTTT! Its not the size that matters Bro its the fire within that matters. Give it your best and good luck.
© 2024 Created by Firefighter Nation WebChief.
Powered by
