Considering Joining My Local FD

So, I am considering joining my local FD, I just think I wouldn't be able to do it, I am under weight for my age, I am like 115 Pounds and I am like 5"6 and I am 18 year's old I dont want to be the weak link in the department, anyone have any idea's.

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Permalink Reply by John on February 14, 2009 at 4:29pm
Go for it man. What do you have to lose.
If your want more weight just work out more. Remember, mussel weighs more then fat.
Permalink Reply by Bruce W. James on February 14, 2009 at 5:57pm
Join Don't worry about your limitations most departments will take that into consideration. There is a place on a fire department for every one who wants to help. Most departments need help don't waste any more time go get
Involved today.
Permalink Reply by Frederick on February 14, 2009 at 6:09pm
Carlo,
I have to agree with everyone else on this one. I am only 120 lbs and 5'8" and I have been volunteering with my dept. for 20 years now. If you beleive you can do it, you can. I have never let my size be a hinderance to me, in fact as stated it has often been useful. On a MVA, Guess who is going through the window to gain patient contact. Also I have worked my way through the ranks and have been Asst. Chief for three years and achieved my FireFighter 1 cert.
Go for it and experience one of the greatest feelings you will ever know.

Good Luck

P.S. : "It is not the size of the dog in the fire, It is the size of the fire in the dog"
Permalink Reply by Carlo on February 14, 2009 at 11:43pm
ha ha thats exactly what I was saying the smallest guy goes through windows.
Permalink Reply by Carlo on February 15, 2009 at 12:53am
Should I get my Hazmat, while I get my FF1 or should I get FF2 first.
Permalink Reply by Bruce Mc on February 15, 2009 at 1:15am
I will say I am the chief of a vol dept and unlike the folks before me i make it hard to join!!! The people on this dept said I was making a mistake but in three years we have record numbers of volunteers. When you make it hard to join something everybody wants to be apart, there is a pride!!! If it is too easy to join then it is easy to quit and not get up at 3am for the fire!! But you make them EARN there way on they will not want to mess up or disappoint and will have pride inthere !! That just my opinion, but it has been successful- In other words quite doubting yourself and get your ass in there and prove you are worthy of respect!!! We dont care your size in body, we care your size in heart!!! In know muscular 300 pound men that ant worth a dam in a fire!!!! Need I say more!!!
Chief Bruce
Permalink Reply by Mike Schlags (Captain Busy) Retd on February 15, 2009 at 2:24am
While there is certainly an argument for firefighters to be able to physically do the job, I really don't see how this could be a problem for you Carlo as far as conquering the physical components of the job. What will be your demise is having a "maybe" I can do it attitude. You have to feel the passion for this job and get past your weaknesses. We all have them and yours can easily be dealt with by reading and absorbing some of the posts where folks shared their insight and encouragement. Remember, it's not uncommon to hear, "lead, follow or get out of the way". Toughen up buddy and focus on your dreams. Size does not always matter... : )
Permalink Reply by Doug on February 15, 2009 at 2:38am
One step at a time bro, one step at a time. I would suggest getting your firefighter 1, then firefighter 2, then go on to the more advanced training. And WHEN you join the department, they should set you up with the classes you need and pay for it, they will help guide you along through this. When I first joined a little over 10 years ago, I just went down to my local department and talked to the Assistant Chief, I asked him how I could become a firefighter. He brought me inside, showed me around the station, had me fill out some paper work and told me to come back to their next meeting the following week for an interview. And as long as I was accepted, which I was, they'd take care of all the training I needed. And I've been with the same department ever since....well, except for when I was in the U.S. Air Force as a firefighter.
Permalink Reply by Carlo on February 15, 2009 at 10:02am
thanks for the replies, I am still gonna find a gym and buff up a little more. but like you guys said small guys could be useful in small situations.
Permalink Reply by Paul Montpetit on February 15, 2009 at 3:46pm
Don't "think" so much....If it is something you want to do then do it.....No, don't "try" just DO IT...!!!You would be amazed at what you can accomplish if you set your mind to it....get off your butt nad give it your best shot.....Paul
Permalink Reply by Carlo on February 16, 2009 at 10:45pm
also, another thing is I dont wanna lose my job because I came in late the next day or didnt show up at all, because i had a early morning fire or car accident etc.
Permalink Reply by John Rulli Jr. on February 16, 2009 at 11:21pm
Your job and fam comes first. Say you have to be @ work in a hour don't get on the truck. Stay back and man the radio. If your on a call and it's getn close to the time you have t obe @ work some one will normaly releave you of your duties.
Lucky for me i work for my dad and leave for fire calls.

GO FOR IT BRO!!!

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