Type of Organization

Fire/Rescue Department - Combination

Job Function

Junior Firefighter/Explorer

Years in Fire/EMS:

Currently I am getting ready to take my national test for EMT-B, and 2 yrs as an explorer.

Primary Fire/EMS Department:

(Edwardsville, IL) Edwardsville Fire Department

Years With Department/Agency

2 as an Explorer

My Training:

Our department does a lot with explorers, so I am fortunate enough to have the men and women that do the real stuff everyday teach me. I have been to the Illinois Fire Service Institute for the past two years, Ameren UE burn tower 1 yr, and Elsah burn tower 1 yr, I have been taught basic fire behavior, forcible entry, ladders, ropes, water supply, extrication, saving our own, etc. On the medic side I have taken the EMT-B class and have yet to take the national test. My explorer post meets and trains every 2 weeks, this past training was a ropes class and test followed by a tag line practical.

About Me:

With the real guys, I have been able to ride along for over 200 hours with them, and I also assist in training while I am there. I am basically the B for the FD I clean trucks, and Help out keeping the house clean.

Relationship Status:

In a Relationship

Why I Joined Fire/EMS

Well my uncle is a firefighter in Brooklyn Park, MN and I have wanted to be a firefighter for as long as I can remember so when I finally met him and got to see his station, I was totally awe struck, and now that is what I am going for.

Why I Love Fire/EMS

I am neither, but pulling out of the station on the fire truck hearing those sirens start up.

Top Issues Facing Responders:

I think there is still one major issue, and there will always be this issue and that is keeping everyone safe. Some problems are through lack of training or not sufficient training, but other problems just happen and there are things that can't be done, so I think safety is and will always be the issue.