Hi all,
Im really excited as I have just been accepted as a full time paid fire fighter! So, im just wondering if anyone out there could give me some advice and guidance on what to expect, and how I can become the very best fire fighter I can be.
cheers,
curtis
1st....Congratulations....its great to see a new future Brother enter the Fire Service....My favorite advice is the three ups rule...That would be.....Show up.....Keep up....and last but far from least ....Shut up.....Learn where everthing and I do mean everything is on every truck...AND HOW TO USE IT...and don't be scarce when there is work to be done around the firehouse......and grow a thick skin.....My first Chief told me not to take anything personal...."They only pick on you if they like you" (Boy, was I ever liked) LOL...Stay safe and remember to always keep the faith......Paul
Paul's advice is is about as good as it gets, esp the shut up part. Far too many come out of the academy with the "I know it all" syndrome. What is studied in the academy mainly comes out of a book, and the fire or a patient never read the book.
Don't "tell" me what you can do, "show" me. It will take a little time for your crew members to develop confidence in your abilities. Whether it is mopping the floor, or fighting fire, your actions (or lack of) will speak volumes. Don't be afraid to make a mistake, because you will. When you do, admit it and learn from it.
CONGRATE ON YOUR JOB JUST PAY ATTETION TO ALL THE FF THAT WAS THERE BEFORE YOU. I AGREE LEARN WHERE EVRYTHING IS ON THE TRUCKS
. I HATE BEING AT A SCENE AND SENDING A NEW GUY TO THE TRUCK AND HE LOOKS AT ME AND GOES WHERES IT AT BUT MOST OF KEEP QUIET YOULL LEARN ALOT MORE PAYING ATTENTION GOOD LUCK STAY SAFE AND WELCOME TO A NEW BRO
I know that I'm not a veteran by any means and am "just a volunteer" but the biggest thing that i have learned is to not be afraid to ask questions. Most guys are more than happy to teach as long as you show them that you are willing to learn. Congratulations and best of luck.
Listen to everything everyone is saying, dont go around thinking you know everything cuase you dont, no one does, there is always something to be learned, always.
i am new too, and everything that is has been mentioned is true! haha! I would add "smiling" to that- keeping a happy attitude, and the upbeat work ethic, this has been passed on to me. it's like being adopted into a new family. and learn yer truck, territories and 'what they do.' the rest comes will fall into place. be confident in yer actions-when you make a desicion, try and stick to it; but pay attention too, take other's that "have been there" advice before your own, if offered. Congratulation fer makin it!