If you want a career in the fire service department, you should be ready to meet some tough physical and mental conditions. This is because fire service recruitment experts will not give you a job if they are not satisfied with your physical and mental qualities. Below are some qualities your employers expect from you.

Physical Strength and Stamina

A career in the fire service department requires tons of stamina, physical strength, courage and the ability to work long hours in dangerous conditions. As a firefighter, you might be called in to rescue people in a burning house, help a drowning child or pull people out of a well. These situations will test your strength, endurance and courage. This is why you should be in first class physical shape to work in this industry.

Discipline

A firefighter should be disciplined because this quality is essential to success in the fire service department. As fireman or fire woman, you should always be alert and ready to carry out your duties effectively. You deal with life and death situations in the course of your duties and this why you cannot afford to be careless or negligent. A committed firefighter should not have a drinking problem, a history of drug abuse or even a criminal record. These things are grounds for dismissal and possibly prosecution.

The Ability to Learn

A firefighter should be ready to learn new ways of doing things. This is because we live in a dynamic world. New developments in science and technology can be used in the fire service industry for improved efficiency. It follows that if you want to excel in this industry, you should be open to learning. A smart firefighter is the one who learns new skills and adapts to changes in the firefighting world.

Leadership Qualities

Once you have started your career in this industry, you should expect to rise through the ranks. If you are good at your job, your employers will promote you to higher levels. Promotion comes with more responsibilities and this is where leadership qualities come into the picture. As a top executive, you should set a good example to your subordinates. If you do not display the right leadership qualities, this will definitely have a negative impact on your career.

Final Word

Being a firefighter is not for the fainthearted. The challenges are enormous but it is a rewarding career if you work hard and commit yourself to your duties.