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Can a Paramedic Pronounce Death?

As an emergency care provider, paramedics encounter death all the time. Although paramedics will do what they can to save lives, what if their measures don’t work or what if they arrive too late?

So, can a paramedic pronounce someone dead?

Whether a paramedic can pronounce death depends on where in the United States they are, as state laws varies by state. It also depends on how ‘obviously’ dead someone is. If a paramedic cannot issue the measure, then a physician typically will. Since the physician needs to sign the death certificate, they will need to be involved at some point anyway. 

In this article, we’ll explain more on legal death, what a paramedic’s role is in declaring legal death, and how long a paramedic will administer CPR to save someone’s life. Keep reading! 

When Is a Person Considered Legally Dead?

First, we need to talk about legal death so you’re clear on that. When someone is considered legally dead, it’s jurisdictionally certified that they’re not living. 

This may sound extraneous, but medical experts must be sure that someone is legally dead before signing off on their death certificate. Otherwise, declaring someone dead who turns out to be alive can lead to disastrous consequences.

In some instances, a person doesn’t necessarily have to be dead for legal death to be declared. In missing persons cases, this happens all the time. 

When the case goes cold and someone has been missing for many years with dwindling hope of finding them, that person will likely be pronounced legally dead. They may still be alive, but until the case is solved, that’s the declaration.

This means of pronouncing someone legally dead is sometimes called declared death in absentia. 

When someone is declared dead in absentia, a doctor or physician does not necessarily have to make the pronouncement. 

The other instance in which death in absentia may be declared is if the person was in great danger when they were last seen and are likely to have perished since. 

For example, if someone was trapped in a raging fire the last you saw them but you never got any confirmation of their death, then declaring death in absentia would be applicable. 

In all other cases of legal death, a medical expert must make the declaration, often a physician. What constitutes legal death in the US can vary depending on state law, but two general categories are followed. 

These are brain death, where the brain has stopped functioning, and/or cardiopulmonary death, where the person is no longer breathing nor is their heart beating. 

A medical expert may attempt to get the heart going again or to get the person breathing, but if these measures are considered futile, then legal death is declared. 

The physician will then produce a death certificate, which includes the name of the dead, the time of the person’s death, and the signature of the physician. 

Can a Paramedic Pronounce Death?

Given what you know about legal death, you can see how the pronouncement mostly comes down to physicians. Does this mean paramedics cannot declare death?

Not necessarily. 

As we mentioned in the intro, whether a paramedic is allowed to declare a death varies on a state-by-state level. 

Take, for example, San Mateo, California. Here are their guidelines for determining death. Let’s take a closer look, shall we?

According to the guidelines, “a paramedic (without base/receiving hospital physician contact)…may make a determination of death if the victim is obviously dead.” 

So what does it mean when someone is obviously dead? The guidelines state that one or more of the following must have occurred:

No signs of life, including pulse and respiration, and the person has not been poisoned, ingested drugs, nor have they experienced hypothermia

Terminal illness death 

Multi-casualty incidents

Destruction of the liver, lungs, brain, and heart and/or apnea

Decomposition

Rigor mortis

Incineration

Decapitation

In other words, when they can walk up to a scene and can tell that someone has been dead for some time and/or shows no sign of recovery, a paramedic can declare death. 

The above applies whether the death was of natural causes, by suicide, or even homicide. Keep in mind this rule does not apply nationwide. 

Even if a paramedic can declare a time of death, they still can’t proceed with the death certificate without getting a physician involved. 

Many times, if someone was legally and obviously dead and the paramedic found them, the paramedic would call the physician, describe the victim and what happened, and note the time of death during the call. 

The physician (or county coroner) may still have to come out and check that the victim is indeed legally dead. If that’s the case, then their time of death reading would likely overrule that of the paramedic

Also, the physician’s signature will be on the death certificate, not the paramedic’s, even if the paramedic is the one to discover the legally dead person. 

Can an EMT Pronounce Death? 

If you read our post on the differences between an EMT and a paramedic, then you should know that EMTs cannot administer as many advanced treatments as a paramedic can. 

For instance, an EMT can provide oxygen, glucose, or CPR, but they won’t use a cardiac monitor, provide life-saving drugs, or insert an IV line like a paramedic.

Given the somewhat limited capacities of an EMT compared to a paramedic, if an EMT discovers a legally dead person first, can they pronounce the death? 

It depends on where in the country they are. 

In San Mateo, the above-linked guidelines mention that EMTs too can make the call for death if someone is obviously dead using those criteria we discussed in the last section. In New York, the rules may be similar.

Other states that allow an EMS to pronounce someone dead would likely still follow the same parameters, that someone would have to be obviously dead for an EMT to be able to make the call. 

Like with a paramedic, an EMT is not the one ordering or signing a death certificate. Their declaration of legal death may require a physician to come out and investigate, and again, the physician’s logged time of death would overrule that of the EMT’s. 

How Long Does a Paramedic Administer CPR?

Of course, EMTs and paramedics don’t always discover someone dead, but may be present as someone dies or almost dies. 

By administering CPR, a paramedic could potentially save someone’s life. In which situations is cardiopulmonary resuscitation or CPR necessary?

To be eligible for CPR, a person must have no pulse, this is usually preceded by:

Stopped breathing 

Stopped breathing normally, such as taking small, shallow breaths

Fallen unconscious

Failed to respond

Shown no signs of life

When administering CPR, the goal is to get oxygenated blood back to vital organs such as the brain. At what point should a paramedic stop issuing CPR and deem that it’s not effective, likely because the person has died?

According to a 2020 report, the National Association of EMS Physicians or NAEMSP has recommended administering CPR for 20 minutes and no longer. 

The report mentions that many medical centers with EMTs and paramedics have created resuscitation termination rules to avoid legal issues. A paramedic may not make the call themselves about when to stop CPR, but a physician might recommend it for them in some instances.

All of this depends on your state as well as your  medical protocols which are determined by a doctor usually referred to as medical control.

There are exceptions to applying 20 minutes of CPR, such as if a person has a do not resuscitate or DNR order. There are various forms of a DNR, but essentially the DNR is a legal document that tells a paramedic not to use CPR if the person ever stops breathing or experiences cardiac arrest. A doctor always approves of such an order.

A person may opt for a DNR order if they think that having a cardiac episode might lead to them living the rest of their life hooked up to a machine. Other people who choose a DNR order are terminal and approaching the end of life anyway.

If a paramedic is about to apply CPR and finds the person has a DNR order, they must stand by and do nothing. This often results in the person’s death. 

Finally, paramedics often cannot declare legal death; that’s the job of a physician. In many states across the US though, if someone is obviously dead, the paramedic can pronounce a time of death. 

A physician must still be present to fill out the death certificate paperwork, and their reported time of death could be used instead of the paramedic’s if necessary. 

from FirefighterNOW https://firefighternow.com/can-a-paramedic-pronounce-death/

From https://catherinelee4.blogspot.com/2020/11/can-paramedic-pronounce-death.html

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What’s In a Pro Pocket

from CMC PRO https://www.cmcpro.com/whats-in-a-pro-pocket/

From https://catherinelee4.blogspot.com/2020/11/whats-in-pro-pocket.html

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Close Before You Doze See the Dramatic Difference a Door Can Make (Flemish Subtitles)

from ULfirefightersafety https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qKIxsAyREiU

From https://catherinelee4.blogspot.com/2020/10/close-before-you-doze-see-dramatic.html

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Can the Fire Department Break into My House?

A fire has just started in your home. You quickly evacuate and call the fire department. They arrive in short order and then begin…breaking into your house? Can firefighters really do that?

The fire department can indeed smash through a window or break down a door to access and ventilate a burning building. In a case where your neighbor’s house was burning but the fire had spread to your house, the fire department could “break into” the property as well.

In this article, we’ll talk all about when, why, and how firefighters will access your burning house as well as the legalities of such. 

We’ll even discuss what you should do about the broken windows and/or door after such an event. Keep reading! 

Note: Nothing in this article is legal advice.  If you are seeking legal advice on the legalities of firefighters entering a building, get an attorney.

Why Would the Fire Department Break into a House?

First, let’s get some semantics out of the way. Technically, the fire department is breaking into your house, as they’re entering without you necessarily granting them access. 

However, you can trust that your local firefighters are not breaking in for nefarious reasons as a criminal would. They’re not trying to make off with your big-screen TV or valuable jewelry.

Why does a fire department break into a house? Let’s go over the reasons now.

To Put Out the Fire

This is the biggest reason by far that firefighters will enter a property by breaking in. If it’s a house fire, then the blaze is most likely indoors. To combat the flames, the firefighters need to get inside your home.

Imagine what would happen if the fire department pulled up to your curb and asked you for the keys to the front door. There are so many reasons this is impractical and sometimes even impossible. 

You and your other family members might not have the keys on your person. 

Even if you did, there’s no guarantee the key would fit into the door, which could have melted. Plus, this wastes so much valuable time. 

In firefighting, every second counts, so the fire department can’t afford to get into the house the good, old-fashioned way.

That’s why the fire department will break into your home if it’s on fire even if your neighbors called 911 because their home was the original source of the blaze. 

To Search for Victims in Need of Rescue 

The other reason a fire department has to break into a house, so to speak, is to gain quick access to who’s inside. 

They have no time to finagle with a key ring and decide which key is for the front door and which is for the side door, not when there are people trapped inside the house. 

The firefighters need to get into the home quickly so they can begin searching for the potential victims, however many of them there are. 

Whether the firefighters help the victims out of the home personally or they provide a means for the victims to escape, the fire department wants to save as many lives as possible.

That doesn’t always exclusively mean human lives, either. You may remember our recent post on whether firefighters will save pets. 

If all human victims are out of the blaze, then yes, the fire department will do their best to recover your precious dog, cat, or other pet. 

If they had to try to unlock the door to your home, the time they’d spend doing this means they’d lose time in rescuing victims, including your favorite four-legged friends. 

How Does the Fire Department Break into Houses?

A firefighter’s job is to save lives first and preserve structures second. Once all the victims are out of the building, the fire department will focus on extinguishing the blaze rather than divide their attention between that and search and rescue. 

Some homes can be saved and others can’t.

Regardless, a firefighter will not hesitate to break into a home if they need to, even if this does detract from the quality of the property. This doesn’t mean firefighters are intent on destruction, nor that they’re reckless.

If the call is not considered an emergency, the fire department will try to thoughtfully enter the home or premises. Here are a few methods they’ll use according to specific situations firefighters encounter often. 

Turning the Power Off

In an apartment complex or another multi-unit building where only the upper area is on fire, the fire department might start in the basement and try to prevent the spread of fire by powering down the building. 

If they couldn’t get into the electrical panel room, the firefighters might smash through a padlock or even remove the molding around the door using a small crowbar to gain access rather than break the door down outright. 

Then they could power down the complex.

In such a situation, the building owner would only need to mold the doorframe back or hammer some nails to secure the frame. This is very minor damage to the door, plus the building can be saved by controlling the fire early on. 

Breaking Garage Panes

What if there’s a gas leak or a strong gas smell in a home or multi-unit building? 

If there’s no fire raging, then the fire department will ask the homeowner if they can gain access to the garage. Provided the homeowner isn’t available, such as being at work, then the fire department is left to their own devices.

Remember, this is still considered a non-emergency, although that status can change at any time. The firefighters might get into the garage by breaking a garage pane or two. 

Then they can turn off the gas, ventilate the house, and prevent a fire. The homeowner would have to make several small, inexpensive repairs to their garage door. 

Kicking the Door In

In more serious situations where the home or building is already on fire and the fire department needs immediate access, there’s no time to waste. 

Some firefighters will kick the door down, using a mule kick technique to smash the door into two or more pieces. 

You may not see this all the time from fire departments though because kicking the door in doesn’t work quickly nor easily for all types of doors. 

Thus, a firefighter could be wasting precious seconds and his or her own energy trying this. 

Breaking the Door

More often, two firefighters will use a maul with a flat-head axe or a Halligan bar to break a door. A flat-head axe is a common firefighting tool that can smash through doors made of wood and other materials. 

A Halligan bar or tool is named for Hugh Halligan, the First Deputy Chief of the New York City Fire Department back in 1948. 

He created the tool, which is still used to this day. With a Halligan bar, a firefighter can strike, punch, twist, or pry a door. This is due to the components of the tool, which include a pick with a tapered edge, an adze or wedge blade, and a fork, which is claw-like.

If a firefighter needs to break the latch of a door rather than the door itself, a Halligan bar can do that. 

In the case of a swinging door, the firefighter would put the Halligan bar between the doorjamb and the door itself, separating the two. Then a second firefighter can use a flat-head axe or a sledgehammer to finish the job. 

Other duties of the Halligan bar are removing top hinges on doors or even breaking through walls. 

Most Halligan bars are 18 to 54 inches long and made of stainless steel, beryllium copper, or titanium. You can add carrying rings or straps to make toting the Halligan bar easier. 

Smashing the Windows

Breaking the windows of a home or building is a top priority for the fire department (*depending on the circumstances). 

By opening all the windows forcibly, heat and smoke can exit the building, which can lessen the extent of the fire damage to your home. Ventilating in this manner can also be used as a strategy to send the smoke and heat away from a room or area of the house where victims are trapped.

The fire department will use a Halligan bar, window punch, pike pole or a flat-head axe for breaking through windows. 

As a word of warning, you should never try to help the firefighters along by opening the windows in a burning building. For one, this distracts from your first objective, which should always be to get out of the home as quickly as possible.

Also, opening windows and ventilating a home during a fire must be timed properly in order to protect firefighters inside.  If you open or break a window at the wrong time it can change the interior conditions and put firefighters in danger. Leave this job to the professionals. 

Cutting a Hole into the Roof

Besides creating ventilation by removing the windows, the fire department will also vent the roof by cutting a hole there. 

Now there’s yet another place for smoke and heat to exit so the firefighters can safely get into the building and do their job with more visibility. 

This form of ventilation is known as vertical ventilation, whereas breaking windows is horizontal ventilation. 

To penetrate the thick roof, firefighters will rely on an assortment of tools, often chainsaws, “K-12s” and cutters. By making a 4×4 hole, the firefighter has 16 square feet of ventilation. 

A larger hole that’s 6×6 increases the hole to 36 square feet. Going too much bigger than that is often unnecessary.

There are some critics of cutting holes into the roof of a home. Indeed, this method can waste valuable time, and a firefighter’s life can sometimes be more at risk for doing it. 

Check out this video from a firefighter in Fresno…

Is It Legal for a Fire Department to Break into a House?

Let’s take a moment to talk about the legalities of a firefighter entering your home, shall we? 

If you’re wondering whether you can turn a fire department away after you’ve already called 911, to answer that, we bring up the story of Lisa Boyle from Orange County, New York.

In 2011, Boyle’s son, who was 14 at the time, believed the chimney of their home was on fire, so he did the right thing and dialed 911. Boyle attempted to cancel the call but appeared to be unsuccessful. 

Local firefighters arrived, Boyle asked them to go, but they wouldn’t until they inspected the property for any traces of fire. 

Firehouse.com, which discussed this story, says this on the matter: “Probably as much as any single issue, the legal duty of a fire department to respond to a fire distinguishes what we do as firefighters from what we do as emergency medical providers. To put it simply, a competent person may have the legal right to refuse medical treatment against medical advice, but a property owner (competent or otherwise) does not have a similar legal right to refuse firefighters the right to enter a property to look for the source of smoke, investigate an alarm or extinguish a fire.”

It’s the fire department’s job to do those three things, and even outside of their occupational duties, if a firefighter were to get lax, they’d potentially be liable. 

That same Firehouse article mentions that fire departments have a legal authority granted to them from localities and states to break into homes when needed. 

It’s not just residential properties firefighters can access in this manner, but businesses as well. That’s the case even if the owner doesn’t consent to the building or home being entered, such as the case of Lisa Boyle. 

What to Do After the Fire Department Has Left

Your home was saved by your trusty fire department. You’re glad, but the damage the firefighters caused by getting into your home is significant. 

The windows are broken, you may be missing a front door, and there could be a hole in your roof.

Fortunately, most of this–as well as the fire damage–is usually covered under your homeowner’s policy. 

How extensive your coverage depends on if you pay to protect detached structures (such as a detached garage or shed), just your home, or dwellings like an attached garage. 

Although it’s not convenient to get new windows or a fresh front door, at the end of the day, this is small potatoes. You still have a home and a family who’s all alive, and that’s what matters most. 

Finally, firefighters have a legal and moral right to enter a home through any means necessary in a fire. The methods of entry include breaking down doors, smashing windows, and cutting a hole into the roof if the fire is serious. 

You might not always like this fact, but it’s a crucial one. Besides, homeowner’s insurance should pay for the damages later. 

from FirefighterNOW https://firefighternow.com/can-the-fire-department-break-into-my-house/

From https://catherinelee4.blogspot.com/2020/10/can-fire-department-break-into-my-house.html

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Online Course: UL FSRI & ISFSI Understanding and Fighting Basement Fires

from ULfirefightersafety https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S15eGXoTI7I

From https://catherinelee4.blogspot.com/2020/10/online-course-ul-fsri-isfsi.html

source https://catherinelee4.wordpress.com/2020/10/20/online-course-ul-fsri-isfsi-understanding-and-fighting-basement-fires/

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Fire Engine vs. Fire Truck: What’s the Difference?

Fire engine, fire truck. The terms may seem interchangeable to you, but did you know that depending on which you say, you’re referring to two different vehicles? 

It’s true! 

So what exactly are the differences between a fire engine and a fire truck?

Fire engines and fire trucks are different in the following ways:

Fire engines usually get to the scene before fire trucks 

Fire engines are used for putting out fires while fire trucks are for victim rescue, roof ventilation, and controlling the fire should it grow larger

Fire engines include equipment like hoses, pumps and water tanks (which is why they’re sometimes called pumpers)

Fire trucks have ventilation and rescue equipment and an assortment of hydraulic aerial ladders

In this article, we’ll first explain more about fire engines and fire trucks as well as elaborate on the above differences between the two. 

Although both fire engines and fire trucks can look similar to the uninitiated, by the time you’re done reading, you’ll clearly know which is which! 

What Is a Fire Engine?

First, we’ll start with fire engines. These large vehicles are often red and sometimes go by the name pumpers, like we mentioned in the intro. Firefighters will ride in a fire engine, which has a myriad of equipment the firefighting crew will need to put out the fire. 

This equipment includes a lot of hose, a water tank, nozzles, and a pump. The pump has a capacity of 1,500 gallons per minute (GPM) or more. 

The water tank is full with gallons and gallons of water, usually between 500 and 750 gallons in all (but can be more depending on the truck).  

The firefighters will use water from the water tank to begin spraying the fire. If necessary, the engineer (also referred to as a pump operator) will also connect to an external source of water such as a fire hydrant so they don’t deplete their tanks. 

As commercial vehicles, fire engines have the chassis of such, and they also include emergency lighting as well as sirens so drivers on the road know to get out of the way.

A fire engine will also come with mobile tech and two-way radios for the firefighters to communicate with others back at base or at the site of the fire so they’re aware of what they’re walking into. 

What Is a Fire Truck?

What about a fire truck? Here’s where things can get confusing, because some people talk about fire engines and fire trucks as the same even though they shouldn’t. 

Fire trucks do admittedly look like fire engines, but fire trucks don’t always have water pumps. A fire engine must put out a fire while the fire truck is there for a different purpose. 

Since they’re not extinguishing fires all the time, they’re not smack dab in the middle of the action.

Like a fire engine, firefighters will ride in the fire truck to get to the scene. Then, if the fire engine staff needs help, the fire truck’s firefighters are ready to assist. 

Mostly though, fire trucks work to extricate victims so the fire engine firefighters don’t have to be distracted from their very important job of tamping down the blaze. 

Fire truck staff (aka “truckies”) may also provide ventilation that makes it easier and safer for them to enter the burning building or for victims to escape. If the truckies have to use forcible entry to get into a building, they have the tools needed for this as well.

Equipment you can expect to find on fire a truck and fire engine…

Thermal Imaging Cameras

As a type of thermographic camera, thermal imaging cameras are an incredibly useful firefighting tool that firefighters use often. 

The camera transforms infrared radiation into visible light so the firefighters can detect barriers, darkness, smoke, and areas of heat. This allows the firefighter to plan how they’ll enter the building and which areas to avoid. 

A firefighter will either wear their thermal imaging camera on their head attached to their helmet or hold it in their hand. 

The housing of the camera is resistant to both water and heat, so even when the firefighter enters the building on fire, their thermal imaging camera continues to work. 

The best use of a thermal imaging camera is to detect body heat, aka that which comes from a living person. 

A firefighter can rely on the camera to find victims who may be unconscious or buried under rubble and cannot escape on their own. That makes the thermal imaging camera a great life-saving measure. 

Self-Contained Breathing Apparatuses (SCBA)

A self-contained breathing apparatus, also nicknamed a compressed air breathing apparatus, is another vital piece of equipment used by firefighters. 

There is a face piece that goes over the face of the firefighter to continuously feed them fresh air. Since the breathing apparatus is self-contained, there’s no need to attach it to a hose or another breathing gas supply other than your tank.

Within a self-contained breathing apparatus is an inhalation connection, a pressure regulator, and a tank that operates at high pressure. 

The inhalation connection is either a face mask or a mouthpiece, while the pressure regulator does what it says, regulating pressure. 

The tank produces pressure between 150 and 374 atmospheres, which is the equivalent of 2,216 and 5,500 pounds per square inch of pressure or PSI. 

The self-contained breathing apparatus may be closed-circuit or open-circuit. An open-circuit breathing apparatus doesn’t use pure oxygen, but rather, compressed and filtered air. 

The first regulator in an open-circuit breathing apparatus lessens air pressure as the air reaches the mask. Then, another regulator cuts the air pressure even more so it’s closer to atmospheric pressure.

Next, a continuous positive pressure valve or a demand valve receives the air, which the firefighter can breathe in and out. 

Curious about the differences between the valves? 

A continuous positive pressure valve keeps the air moving constantly while a demand valve only works when the firefighter inhales. 

A closed-circuit self-contained breathing apparatus uses the air the firefighter inhales and exhales on a continuous loop. 

That’s why this is also referred to as a re-breather. As the firefighter exhales, that air is first filtered, then augmented with fresh air if necessary. 

The air circulates again where the firefighter can breathe it in, release it, and the process happens once more.

If a firefighter knows they’ll be in a building for a long period, then a closed-circuit breathing apparatus is recommended. 

Extrication Tools (Jaws of Life)

Extrication tools, sometimes referred to as the Jaws of Life are a group of hydraulic-powered piston-rod tools such as rams, spreaders, and cutters. 

If a person has been in a car accident or they’re stuck beneath rubble in a burning building, the Jaws of Life are a necessity.

Specialized fluids like phosphate esters are required for the Jaws of Life, as this fluid is resistant to fire. The pistons in the Jaws of Life work opposite one another, where when one lifts, the other drops. 

A valve switch and piston cylinder control most Jaws of Life tools, the switch which is controllable by an operator. The operator also manages the amount of fluid, which is often roughly a quart used.

The ram sends a piston rod in and out to separate parts of a structure until the firefighter can get to the victim. 

Cutters made of aluminum alloy will move in a scissor-like motion, with a mouth or blades that close and open according to hydraulics. The alloy steel used to make the piston rod in the cutters is fire-resistant as well.  

If a firefighter needs to slice through rubble, car doors or parts of a building, they’ll use the cutters for the job. 

Cutters may be spreaders as well in a combination tool. A spreader will have pointed blades for locking into a building or vehicle and pulling it back to reveal a victim. 

Hydraulic Ladders

The last crucial piece of equipment on a fire truck, ladders let firefighters reach the heights necessary to do their job. 

Since building heights differ, firefighters will carry an assortment of ladders with them on the fire truck. Some of these will be powered by hydraulics to lift and descend smoothly as well as quickly.  

Besides the above, it’s also a common sight for fire extinguishers, fire hoses, and floodlights to be onboard a fire truck. 

What Are the Differences Between a Fire Engine and a Fire Truck?

Now that we’ve examined fire engines and fire trucks in-depth, it’s time to take a look at the list of differences between the two vehicles that we laid out in the intro. 

Fire Engines Arrive on the Scene First

Although both fire engines and fire trucks serve integral roles in saving lives and putting out fires, it’s more common for a fire engine to arrive first so they can begin working on the blaze. 

Minutes afterward, if even that, the fire trucks will be on the way. 

Fire Engines Put out the Fire, Fire Trucks Primarily Ventilate and Rescue

The duties of a fire engine versus a fire truck are the biggest difference. Fire engines will apply water at high pressure to the fire, extinguishing it. Sometimes a building can be saved if the blaze is controlled in enough time, and countless lives can be as well. 

As we discussed earlier, since firefighters on a fire engine work so strenuously to put out a fire, that’s their main duty. 

Compare that to firefighters on a fire truck, who have an assortment of duties. They may assist with rescuing victims of the fire both in and around the building. 

They may also ventilate the roof or other parts of the building to limit the spread of the fire and/or to make it easier to enter the building. 

Fire trucks don’t solely put out fires though. 

The firefighters onboard a fire truck can do the same, although it doesn’t happen every time. If the firefighters on the fire engine are struggling with a blaze because it’s grown larger or more unpredictable, then those on the fire truck will join in until the fire is contained. 

Fire Trucks and Fire Engines Have Different Equipment

Given their responsibilities, firefighters on a fire truck versus a fire engine will use two different sets of equipment. 

Fire trucks include rescue tools such as the Jaws of Life as well as hydraulic ladders to reach victims on several floors of a building. These firefighters also use thermal imaging cameras for assessing safe areas of a building to enter from as well as the body heat of victims. 

With a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), they can go into a burning building and continue breathing clean air. 

Firefighters who extinguish a blaze on a fire engine may use some of the same equipment if necessary, but not as frequently. 

Instead, they need high-powered water pumps, plentiful water tanks with hundreds of gallons of water, and lengthy water hoses to keep the water supply coming. 

When Do You Need a Fire Engine vs. a Fire Truck?

To further illustrate how fire engines and fire trucks are not the same, we thought we’d present a list of situations that call for one over another and even both. The next time you have an emergency, keep this information in mind!

If a Fire Has People in the Building, You Need a Fire Truck

Whenever victims are involved, it’s a good idea to have a fire truck on hand as well as a fire engine with firefighters putting out the blaze. 

The firefighters coming in on the fire truck will use the tools we’ve discussed to get into the building, remove the rubble, and bring the victims out of the building before they perish in the fire. 

If a Building Is on Fire, You Need a Fire Engine

If your building is on fire but you don’t have victims, then a fire engine alone should be suitable for the job. 

The firefighters will arrive at the scene quickly, sirens blazing, and begin using their water tank or a local water supply to spray their high-pressure hoses at the fire until it’s completely out. 

If Victims Are Stuck or Lost in the Building, You Need a Fire Truck

Most victims of fire will try to run out when they smell smoke or see fire, but not all can. Some victims can get stuck under rubble while others can get trapped in a room in the building. 

Others might get lost and aren’t able to get out even though they know where the building’s exit is.

Fire truck staff will enter the building and use infrared cameras to find the victims and bring them out while fire engine staff will continuously work to extinguish the fire.  

If a Fire Is Out of Control, You Need a Fire Truck and a Fire Engine 

Fires are unpredictable, and one that seems mostly controlled can sometimes roar to new heights if the fire finds another source of ignition. 

If even the firefighters that rode in on a fire engine are having a hard time managing the fire, then fire truck staff will join them to collectively put out the fire. 

Conclusion

Fire engines and fire trucks may refer to similar-looking red vehicles, but their duties are quite different. Fire engines have hoses with water tanks and pumps for controlling the flames while fire trucks are mostly for search and rescue operations. 

Now that you know how these trucks are different, if a fire ever occurs near you, you can appreciate the duties of a fire engine and a fire truck that much more.

from FirefighterNOW https://firefighternow.com/fire-engine-vs-fire-truck/

From https://catherinelee4.blogspot.com/2020/10/fire-engine-vs-fire-truck-whats.html

source https://catherinelee4.wordpress.com/2020/10/01/fire-engine-vs-fire-truck-whats-the-difference/

via Blogger http://pppearlyn.blogspot.com/2020/10/fire-engine-vs-fire-truck-whats.html

[gracespilkerr]

Don’t Wait, Plan Ahead PSA

from ULfirefightersafety https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZ3FHqdwdRY

From https://catherinelee4.blogspot.com/2020/10/dont-wait-plan-ahead-psa.html

source https://catherinelee4.wordpress.com/2020/10/01/dont-wait-plan-ahead-psa/

via Blogger http://pppearlyn.blogspot.com/2020/10/dont-wait-plan-ahead-psa.html

[gracespilkerr]

UL FSRI Home Furnishings Comparison (Natural vs. Synthetic)

from ULfirefightersafety https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87hAnxuh1g8

From https://catherinelee4.blogspot.com/2020/10/ul-fsri-home-furnishings-comparison.html

source https://catherinelee4.wordpress.com/2020/10/01/ul-fsri-home-furnishings-comparison-natural-vs-synthetic/

via Blogger http://pppearlyn.blogspot.com/2020/10/ul-fsri-home-furnishings-comparison.html

[gracespilkerr]

CLUTCH Live Demo in Spanish

from CMC PRO https://www.cmcpro.com/clutch-live-demo-latin-america/

From https://catherinelee4.blogspot.com/2020/09/clutch-live-demo-in-spanish.html

source https://catherinelee4.wordpress.com/2020/10/01/clutch-live-demo-in-spanish/

via Blogger http://pppearlyn.blogspot.com/2020/09/clutch-live-demo-in-spanish.html

[gracespilkerr]

7 Best Flashlights & Helmet Lights for Firefighters

A flashlight is a tool that many of us might take for granted. However, firefighters know that a flashlight is far more important in their day-to-day lives. 

They light the way in emergencies to locate those at risk in the night, help us find our way through the darkness in building and accident scenes at night. They are a second pair of eyes, which is why it is crucial that we have a flashlight that is up to the task.

Short on time? Don’t feel like reading? No problem! Here’s my two personal favorites and what I use on my own gear…

Sale

Streamlight 90540 Survivor LED Right Angle Flashlight, Orange – 175 Lumens

Rubber dome push button switch easy to use with gloves

Dual power source: Rechargeable NiCd battery; also accepts 4 “AA” alkaline batteries

C4 LED with high, low, emergency flash and moonlight modes

High for a super bright beam that pierces through smoke: 41,000 candela; 175 lumens; 405m beam distance; runs 3.5 hours (NiCd); runs 4 hours (alkaline)

Low for bright light and longer run time: 14,000 candela; 60 lumens; 237m beam distance; runs 13 hours (NiCd); runs 15 hours (alkaline)

$55.37

Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Sale

Streamlight 69140 Vantage LED Tactical Helmet Mounted Flashlight, Black

Rotates 360 degrees on clamp; Bright blue tail light LED

On/off switch operates with heavy gloves on; Attach or remove in seconds with no tools

Clamps on above or below helmet brim; Bulb: LED; Finish: Matte Black

Output (lumens): 115; Power Source: CR123A Lithium, x 2; Switch: Dual-Direction On/Off Switch

$114.75

Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Last update on 2020-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

In this guide, I have provided some honest reviews of flashlights that I believe make the cut. The list is split into two halves – standard flashlights and helmet lights.

In each case, I have highlighted my own personal recommendation before including some additional products with their own pros and cons. 

Before that, I want to talk a little more about the importance of a good helmet light and flashlight in this industry and some of the features that you need to look out for.

Why do you need a high powered flashlight when working as a firefighter?

Your run-of-the-mill flashlight at home isn’t going to cut it out in an emergency. There is no guarantee that it will have the range that you need to seek out obstacles and victims in dark, smoke-filled buildings or across remote forests at night. 

It might not have the battery power to provide a strong light source for the duration of the emergency – although this is true of some of the models below too. 

It won’t have the same settings or any specific considerations for those that work in the fire service. That is why it is important to find something geared towards the industry.

The first option for firefighters is to get something similar to a traditional flashlight, just with better performance. There are lots of hand-held models that have a similar approach to normal models but are a little more powerful, designed to be used with gloves or have some other benefits. 

These flashlights should be a familiar, effective piece of equipment that helps you out in dark situations. You can carry them in your pocket, shine them in front of you to create a path in the smoke and become more visible to other people.

Why are helmet lights such a good idea for firefighters?

One of the downsides of choosing a more traditional-looking flashlight is that you do have to hold on to it at all times to point it in the right direction (unless of course you attach it to your turnout gear). 

There is great freedom of movement and you can angle it in all directions, but this doesn’t work if you have your hands full. 

A helmet flashlight lets you mount a light to your head for a constant beam and hands-free operation. 

You can then enjoy that constant illumination as you work on tying knots, hauling equipment or performing first aid or other intricate tasks.

Important features when buying a flashlight for firefighters.

The strength of the beam.

The direction of the light is as important as the strength of the beam. Do you get a strong, thin beam that highlights the areas ahead of you or something a bit wider with less reach? 

Is there any way of changing the intensity of the light depending on the situation. High-strength beams are helpful but we don’t need them the whole time. 

It helps to save battery and create a better illumination where we can. Strong lights are great for finding a path through a structure but not necessary when dealing with victims.

The quality of the light source.

LED lights are the best approach because the lights are so much brighter, longer-lasting and more reliable. 

One thing to look out for when choosing a light is a model with green LEDs as well as white. Green LEDs are said to improve visibility and color perception when working in a smoke-filled environment. 

This can make a big difference when dealing with structures and rescuing victims. The quality of the LEDs is also important. At this professional level, there should be absolutely no risk of flickering or inconsistencies in the brightness of the LED.

The battery life.

What type of batteries are used and are they included with the flashlight? 

There are typically two choices here. You could opt for a model that takes normal, accessible AA batteries and keep swapping them out or go for something with a rechargeable battery. 

Each option has its pros and cons in this line of work. Sometimes you can find products that offer both so you can switch between them as needed. 

Either way, check the specification to learn more about the battery life. How long is it expected to last and how does this change between different light settings?

The casing.

What would happen if you dropped your flashlight on the ground in a building while struggling through? 

Nothing should happen because the best firefighter flashlights are impact resistant. There is also fire and heat resistance to remain intact and reliable no matter the situation. 

Check the materials and certification for a product before buying. 

Impact resistance also applies to the lens of the light. It should be clear and scratch-proof. While looking at the casing for the light, you might also consider the color. 

A brighter color is easier to locate in a gear bag or on the ground than some “tactical” black models. 

The build of the helmet – if you prefer the idea of a helmet light and know that this will be more effective, the same considerations apply. – fireproof materials in the heat of the fire, impact resistance.

Ease of use.

Ease of use is something that some flashlight brands can overlook. They don’t always consider the fact that we need to change the settings and attach helmet lights with gloves on. 

Small, intricate buttons aren’t going to work. Tool-free assembly for helmet lights is also essential so you can attach it with ease in difficult situations.

Additional settings

Once you find a series of flashlights that you know have the right beams and built to be of use to firefighters, you need to consider some additional settings that may be helpful. 

Some of the cheaper, more basic lights will have a single front-facing beam that is either on or off. Others will go further with settings with emergency flashes or different colored lights. 

Some will even have a blue tail light behind that lets other crew members locate you and follow you in the darkness. Just make sure that each setting is easy to operate in an emergency and that it doesn’t deplete the battery too much.

The cost.

Finally, you need to consider the cost of the flashlight. While you want something that will last and hold up to damage, you have to be prepared for the fact that you might lose the light. 

You might drop it into a space from which it can’t be retrieved, place it under too much pressure or see some other department walk off with it because it is so nice. 

Work within a realistic budget and don’t get something that is a waste if you lose the light. At the same time, don’t go too cheap and compromise on quality.

Streamlight 90540 Survivor LED Right Angle Flashlight

Sale

Streamlight 90540 Survivor LED Right Angle Flashlight, Orange – 175 Lumens

Rubber dome push button switch easy to use with gloves

Dual power source: Rechargeable NiCd battery; also accepts 4 “AA” alkaline batteries

C4 LED with high, low, emergency flash and moonlight modes

High for a super bright beam that pierces through smoke: 41,000 candela; 175 lumens; 405m beam distance; runs 3.5 hours (NiCd); runs 4 hours (alkaline)

Low for bright light and longer run time: 14,000 candela; 60 lumens; 237m beam distance; runs 13 hours (NiCd); runs 15 hours (alkaline)

$55.37

Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Last update on 2020-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The first model that I want to discuss here is this one from Streamlight. This is the one that I would personally recommend if you want a “normal” type of flashlight because of the features and the quality of the beam.

This model doesn’t look exactly like your traditional flashlight, unlike some of the others below. Instead, it has a lot of details and design features where Streamlight has obviously considered the needs of firefighters. 

This includes the use of a rubber dome button for the power supply which is ideal for use with gloves. We also get a choice of power sources with either rechargeable NiCd or 4 AA batteries. 

This means that you can swap out the batteries as needed and choose the style that is most practical at that moment. If you haven’t had a chance to recharge the batteries then you have that safety net of the AA batteries.

Another thing that I like about this model is that there are different modes on the beam. You can switch from a high to low beam and use emergency flash and moonlight settings. 

There is also the promise that the light will pierce through the smoke with the 41,000 candela/175 lumens high beam. 

For comparison, the low light beam is 14,000 candela and 60 lumens. There is also an impact-resistant case that comes in bright orange or yellow so it is easy to find.

One downside to be aware of here is that the battery life drops considerably when using this on the higher beam. You do have the choice to make that switch between the settings as needed. 

However, the difference can be dramatic and could leave you without a light if you are not careful. You can get 3.5 hours of life on the NiCd battery and 4 hours on the alkaline when using the high beam. 

On the low beam, this increased to 13 hours and 15 hours respectively. It might be worth taking a spare battery because the high beam is so powerful and helpful to many firefighters.

Pros:

The user-friendly features for simple operation

The choice of batteries

The choice of beams and settings

Cons:

The drop in battery life on the high beam

Streamlight Vantage 180 X

Streamlight Vantage 180 X

3-in-one light: Helmet Mounted, Right-Angle Light, Handheld Flashlight,180º rotating head (for right-angle use) and Turnout gear/radio strap attachment hook

Ultra-bright blue rear light for helmet mount use in heavy smoke or a white safety flood down light mode when head is rotated 90 degrees towards push button

Integrated Stainless Steel Clip is designed to be used with the “quick release” helmet bracket that easily detaches the light from the helmet for use as a handheld or pocket light. The light also features a clip to attach to turnout gear. Body: High-impact, “super-tough” nylon chemically-resistant engineering polymer for exceptional durability and a sure grip. Lens: Unbreakable poly-carbonate lens with a silicone anti-scratch coating. O-ring sealed

Vantage 180 X USB is a complete rechargeable system that includes an 18650 USB battery with an integrated USB charge port

Includes Helmet Bracket & 2 CR123A Lithium. Turnout gear attachment hook, head articulates 180-degree to aim the beam. Waterproof to 1M for 30 minutes, 1M impact resistance tested

Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Last update on 2020-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

There is a clear USP with this Vantage 180 model that I can see the appeal of in the firefighting service. This product has a feature in the head of the light that means that it can adjust from the normal straight angle to a 180-degree angle. 

This means that you can point the light towards the floor or find ways of mounting it with the best coverage of light. 

This is the additional selling point here. 

Unlike some flashlights that are purely to be used by hand, this one is mountable with the gear attachment hook.

The light source on this flashlight is pretty good with both a strong white light and blue rear light. The promise is that this will improve visibility in smoke and most users are happy with the impact on their work.

Another benefit here is the fact that this is such a tough product. 

The flashlight is waterproof up to 1 meter and made from a “super tough” nylon that is designed to withstand high impacts. 

Therefore, if you drop it on-scene or it does come off your helmet, it shouldn’t incur any damage. 

Many firefighters will also appreciate the quick release system on the helmet mount for added ease of use. Those that don’t want to use it this way can use the steel pocket clip instead.

There is clearly a lot of versatility to this product for use in different situations. 

However, this does also mean that there is a lot to think about when using the different strength beams. 

For example, users need to be aware that the light is set to change when you adjust the angle. It starts off as the bright blue light for visibility at the normal angle and then switches to a white LED safety floodlight when at that 90-degree angle. 

This creates a downward facing beam to help you see around your feet. So, this could mean that you don’t get the light source you need when mounting the light a certain way on helmets or equipment.

Pros:

A 180-degree articulation for different angles

Easy to mount onto helmets if needed

A tough casing

Cons:

The change in light based on the angle of the device

Streamlight 88854 PolyTac LED Helmet Lightning Kit

Sale

Streamlight 88854 PolyTac LED Helmet Lightning Kit, Yellow – 275 Lumens

Includes PolyTac LED flashlight, lithium batteries, Streamlight Helmet Mount and Rubber Helmet Strap

Flashlight case made from high impact, super tough nylon polymer for exceptional durability and a sure grip

Borofloat glass lens, o-ring sealed

C4 LED technology, impervious to shock with a 50,000 hour lifetime

Tailcap push button provides one handed momentary or constant on operation

$69.90

Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Last update on 2020-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This next Streamlight model is always going to catch the eye of firefighters because of the words “helmet kit”. 

This means that there is a dedicated piece of equipment in the box that will allow us to attach this to our helmets for hands-free use. 

But, we still have the benefit of the more traditional approach because of the fairly classic design. This should mean that this a more versatile option for different jobs.

There is quite a lot in the box for the price as you get the flashlight with its LED bulb, the helmet mounting kit, a rubber helmet strap and the lithium batteries. 

The light source is pretty straightforward with a decent beam of light and the choice of either a momentary or constant operation. Another feature I like is the use of the one-handed push button power system for ease of use.

This is another flashlight that is meant to last. We have a case that is made from a high-impact nylon so it should hold up to being dropped on hard surfaces. 

The LED bulb is also meant to be shockproof for a more consistent stream of light. There is also the tough lens and strong seals around it so everything is secure at all times.

There are two issues with this light that let it down a little compared to some of the other lights in this guide. 

The first is the fact that it isn’t that easy to mount the torch to a helmet. Some of these adaptable models clip onto a helmet with ease to provide that secure light source. 

Here it clips to the side and can unbalance a helmet a little if users aren’t careful. There are also users that say that the light isn’t as bright as they had hoped.

Pros:

The additional features to make this a more versatile option than some standard flashlights

The user-friendly operation with the design of the power button

The shock proofing across the different components

Cons:

Not as easy to mount to a helmet as some other flashlights

Streamlight 68201 4AA ProPolymer LED Flashlight with White LEDs

Streamlight 68201 4AA ProPolymer LED Flashlight with White LEDs, Yellow – 67 Lumens

Virtually indestructible, non-conductive polymer with a scratch-resistant face-cap; impact & shock-resistant

Lens: Unbreakable polycarbonate with scratch-resistant coating

Clamps on above or below helmet brim; Bulb: LED;

Output (lumens): 115; Power Source: CR123A Lithium, x 2; Switch: Dual-Direction On/Off Switch

Finish: Matte Black

$26.67

Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Last update on 2020-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

There are some nice features on this flashlight that are familiar after looking at the products above. 

There are some user-friendly features like the dual-direction switch, the AA batteries and the light weight. 

The battery life is said to be 155 hours on one set, but this might be optimistic. Just make sure to choose the version that actually has the batteries included in the box. 

The switch should be easier to use for those that have struggled with flashlights that have tiny buttons on them. Sliding switches are so much easier in gloves!

There is also the promise of a tough build with the impact resistant non-conductive materials and scratch-proof lens coating. What this should mean is that you get a product that will be safe to use in almost any situation. 

There is also a choice of modes where you can have a constant or blinking stream of light as required. 

The light source is only 67 lumen but there is the promise of a super-bright LED that lasts for 100,000 hours before it needs to be replaced.

There are some features here where this does seem to be aimed at our market as there are additional clamps in the box so that we can attach this light to our helmets if we want to.

There are users that say that the beam is strong and reliable. However, I suspect that many feel that it is good for the price paid and might notice a weakness and lack of function after paying out for something a bit more intense. 

This is a cheap model that will do a decent job temporarily in some situations. It isn’t the ideal choice for regular use in emergencies.

Pros:

The number of protective features to ensure that users get a tough flashlight

The promise of a long battery life

Different settings on the light beam

Cons:

Weaker than some of the brighter, more robust lights out there.

Streamlight 69140 Vantage LED Tactical Helmet Mounted Flashlight

Sale

Streamlight 69140 Vantage LED Tactical Helmet Mounted Flashlight, Black

Rotates 360 degrees on clamp; Bright blue tail light LED

On/off switch operates with heavy gloves on; Attach or remove in seconds with no tools

Clamps on above or below helmet brim; Bulb: LED; Finish: Matte Black

Output (lumens): 115; Power Source: CR123A Lithium, x 2; Switch: Dual-Direction On/Off Switch

$114.75

Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Last update on 2020-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The first of these top firefighter helmet flashlights is the one that I personally recommend and also happens to be an Amazon’s Choice product. 

This model stands out because it looks like a rugged, professional model right from the start. There is a traditional looking flashlight that mounts onto a helmet with a large clamp system. 

It will stay in place and is tough enough to take a knock while handling a fire. This is where this sort of light is better than some of the clip-on flashlights above. You can put this central on the brim and not weigh down the helmet on one side or risk an accident with the light.

The light is bright LED light from a Lithium power source for bright illumination on-scene. There is also a blue tail light. This “tactical” model looks the part but also has the added advantages of some helpful features for users. 

This includes the simple, tool-free process of attaching it to the helmet and the fact that you can press all the buttons with gloves on.

Another interesting feature of this helmet lamp is the way that it rotates on the clamp 360 degrees. 

This improves visibility when you don’t have the flexibility to move around. It may also help those working behind you. The small profile helps too as it is less likely to be knocked out of place or off the helmet entirely.

Even though I have included this as my recommended product, I have to admit that it is not perfect. There are other helmet lights that have light sources and LED colors that may prove to be more effective in a dark environment or over long distances. 

Some of the other top helmet flashlights for firefighters are a little cheaper too. However, it is that balance of the user-friendly design and structural integrity that allows it to take the top position.

Pros:

Great visibility with the white light and the blue tail light

The chance to rotate the light 360 degrees

Easy to mount onto the helmet. 

Cons:

The use of LEDs isn’t as impressive as some of the helmet lights

Streamlight Vantage II Helmet Light

Streamlight 69331 Vantage II 350 Lumen Helmet Mount Flashlight

Attaches securely to helmet, above or below rim in seconds; large easy off switch located on rear of light

High: 350 Lumens, low; 135 lumens

Safe off feature prevents accidental activation, saves batteries; Uses one CR123A lithium battery, included

Meets requirements of NFPA 1971-56 (2013)

IPX 7 waterproof to 1M for 30 minutes; 1M impact resistance tested

$84.78

Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Last update on 2020-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

On first impressions, this helmet flashlight looks very similar to the one above. There aren’t too many differences here between the Tactical model I recommended and this one. There are still lots of users that appreciate the design of this one where it has the same features. 

For example, the design is just as slim so there is the same small profile for ease of use in tight spots. There is also the same approach to the style of the buttons and the use of fire-resistant and impact resistant materials.

A positive thing about this flashlight is that, like the flashlight I use on my helmet, there are two different beams to choose from. 

You can have a high beam of 3500 candela and 350 lumens or a low one of 1700 candela and 135 lumens. 

Again, there is a notable difference between the two. 

The high beam is great for a longer reach of 118m. However, the battery life does drop to 2.25hours on this mode. The safety feature for accidental activation can help here. There is also the blue tail light to help those behind you.

However, there are two factors here that mean that it doesn’t quite match up to the Tactical model. 

The first is the light source itself. This one uses a bright light with strong peripheral visibility to illuminate the area around firefighters. Many like the brightness and the settings and get on well with it. But, it doesn’t have the same intensity. It also doesn’t have that 360 degree rotation that was so beneficial in the previous model. 

There are also some users that have struggled with the size of the screw on the clamp and the casing for the battery. This might explain why the screw on the Tactical model’s clamp is so large. 

This doesn’t mean that this is a bad product. 

Lots of users are able to work with ease and get the illumination they need. It just lacks some of the benefits.

Pros:

A choice of beams for high and low settings

A safety feature to improve the battery life

The impact and fire resistance of the casing

Cons:

The clamp on this one isn’t as good as the model above

FoxFury 420-L06 Command+ LoPro

FoxFury 420-L06 Command+ LoPro White/Green LED Fire and Impact Resistant Waterproof Helmet Light, 100 Lumens

100 lumen helmet light runs up to 14 hours on four AA batteries. 3 modes: high, medium and low to provide the optimal light intensity

Constructed from high quality nylon and polycarbonate this light is fire resistant up to 300F/149C (NFPA 1971-8.6 (2013)), impact resistant and waterproof to 3 meters

The wide angle beam provides panoramic lighting with a wider field of view compared to traditional headlamp’s single beam. White and green LEDs offers improved depth perception, color rendition and smoke cutting ability (as compared to white light only)

Ultra-slim helmet light designed for use on firefighter helmets that utilize external face shields. Enables most external 4” and 6” face shields to be raised and lowered without interference. Not compatible with European (Gallet) style helmets

Also features a highly visible red flashing LED in the rear battery pack that can be seen from over 1 mile away for added safety

$96.99

Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Last update on 2020-09-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

There are two things that stand out about this model from FoxFury. 

The first is that there are both white and green LED lights within the light source for improved visibility and perception of color. This should mean that firefighters can access victims and handle fires with greater ease. 

Then there is the fire-resistant construction of the helmet. This model is designed to be tough with the resistance to the heat and damage of the flames and impact resistance. 

This, along with the 14 hour battery life, increases the reliability of the helmet light in long rescue missions in dangerous situations.

The design is also nice as the slim light doesn’t obstruct the movement of the face shield in any way. 

Additional features here include the flashing red LED light with a visibility range of 1 mile – this can help other firefighters or victims locate you in dark conditions. 

The version of this helmet lamp that I have mentioned here is pretty affordable at just under $100.

There is another version that’s more expensive that has a rechargeable system instead of the use of AA batteries. 

You might feel that this is worth the extra cost as it removes the need to have AA batteries on hand. On the other hand, you might feel that rechargeable models are too much hassle.

Most user comments are favorable with many users impressed with the light source and the ease of use of this lighter model. 

However, some note that the batteries can seem a little loose and the power button is a bit small. 

This is a shame when we have seen what can be done with those larger, rubber-coated buttons that are so perfect for use with our gloves. With some extra thought and attention to detail, this could be a better option.

Pros:

The use of the green LEDs to cut through the smoke

The heat and impact resistance of the casing

A long battery life

Cons:

Not as user-friendly in its design as some of the products here.

How to choose the best flashlight for firefighters 

One thing that you will notice with these flashlights is that while the majority of the best models come from the same brand, there are variations in quality in function across the range. 

You can find some cheap and basic Streamlight products that are fine in some situations but don’t match up to the top brands. Pay a little more for something with a choice of settings or greater ease of use and you can have a better experience while out on calls.

I believe that my personal recommendations for the flashlight and helmet light are the best choices because of their features and reliability. 

But, you may have other priorities for your duties. 

As long as the flashlight is powerful enough for your needs, easy to use and durable enough to handle fires and damage, you should be OK. Take your time to compare the different options available within your budget.

Looking for more gear guides? Checkout some of my other guides here…

Best Multi Tools for Firefighters

5 Great Watches for EMTs and Firefighters

Best Boots for Firefighters

from FirefighterNOW https://firefighternow.com/7-best-flashlights-helmet-lights-for-firefighters/

From https://catherinelee4.blogspot.com/2020/09/7-best-flashlights-helmet-lights-for.html

source https://catherinelee4.wordpress.com/2020/09/15/7-best-flashlights-helmet-lights-for-firefighters/

via Blogger http://pppearlyn.blogspot.com/2020/09/7-best-flashlights-helmet-lights-for.html

[gracespilkerr]

CLUTCH 11mm Ascending & Descending

from CMC PRO https://www.cmcpro.com/11mm-clutch-ascending-descending/

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CLUTCH 11mm Loading and Testing

from CMC PRO https://www.cmcpro.com/11mm-clutch-loading-testing/

From https://catherinelee4.blogspot.com/2020/09/clutch-11mm-loading-and-testing.html

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EMT vs. Paramedic: What’s the Difference?

Choosing the right career path for you is a life-altering decision, so it’s one you want to give plenty of consideration. Currently, you’re stuck between the ideas of working as an EMT or a paramedic. Are these two career paths really all that different? If so, how?

EMTs and paramedics both work in the medical field, but what an EMT can do in terms of administering life-saving procedures or medications differs from a paramedic. EMTs can use oxygen, glucose, and CPR treatments whereas paramedics can treat conditions with pacemakers, medications, and IV lines. Also, both fields require different levels of schooling.

In this article, we’ll explain the job roles of EMTs and paramedics in more detail. Then, we’ll go area by area, comparing EMTs and paramedics in job responsibilities, schooling, how to get into the field, earnings potential, and job outlook. 

What Is an EMT?

An emergency medical technician or EMT may be referred to as an ambulance technician as well. 

This medical professional rides in or drives an ambulance, overseeing the transport of a patient in need of urgent medical care. An EMT can administer treatments and procedures that may save the life of the patient.

Most EMTs that earn that role have been trained and are certified, but in some instances, EMTs may not have certification. 

They still must undergo a degree of schooling and training to get into the job, how much we’ll discuss a bit later.

Fire departments hire EMTs, as do hospitals, government agencies, municipal EMS agencies, and private ambulance companies. 

Most EMTs who work this job are doing it and getting paid, but it’s not unheard of for some dedicated pros to donate their time and volunteer in an EMT capacity. 

What Is a Paramedic?

What about paramedics? 

If you’re a paramedic, you may also do your work on an ambulance, but not exclusively. As part of the emergency medical services or EMS team or first aid squad (FAST), a paramedic has more qualifications than that of an EMT, which is the main differentiating factor between them.

Since a paramedic is more qualified at their job, they can issue more treatments and procedures that may save the life of a patient. 

Their level of expertise may stretch further than an EMT, in that a paramedic is educated in areas like medical procedures, which medications to administer and when, cardiology, physiology, and anatomy. 

A paramedic may begin as an EMT and later become a paramedic, but not always. 

Some paramedics get the schooling and training required to jump right into that field without ever having worked as an EMT first. 

What Are the Job Responsibilities of an EMT vs. a Paramedic?

EMT Job Responsibilities 

If you decide to pursue a career as an EMT, what kind of job responsibilities will be expected of you day in and day out? 

As mentioned in the first section, most of your job will likely involve you riding in an ambulance. 

When you reach the patient that needs care, you will have to evaluate and examine them. You will also have to determine what kind of care the patient needs in this moment before they reach the hospital. 

You must have a strong knowledge of all the medical equipment and treatments available to you as an EMT so you can make an educated decision on which is best for the patient. 

Then, you must document what the patient’s current condition is (such as an injury or illness), other pertinent information, which treatment you administered, and how the patient reacted.

It’s also crucial that you abide by patient confidentiality rules (better known as HIPPA) so that the patient can expect to have a degree of privacy when they’re in your care, even if they have yet to reach the hospital (or don’t have to because of your care, which can happen). 

Not all EMTs will sit in the back of the ambulance with the patient, as we said. If you choose to take on this role, it may be your responsibility to drive the ambulance. 

Operating an ambulance isn’t like driving a car or truck. 

Not only must you have passed an Emergency Vehicle Operator Course or EVOC in many states before you can drive an ambulance, but the rules of the road are different.

For instance, in an emergency, you can bypass red lights and other stops. Still, you must be able to safely navigate the roads, drive at an even yet speedy pace, and not put other motorists’ lives at risk trying to transport your patient to the hospital or another medical facility.

Paramedic Job Responsibilities

As a paramedic, you may work as part of a small team with no more than two or three people. This ambulance crew will also comprise more seasoned medical workers, including senior members. 

When an emergency strikes, as a paramedic, you’ll get there first, or very close to first. You’ll speak to friends, relatives, and witnesses to gather a picture of what happened. 

Then, as you would as an EMT, you’ll quickly review the patient’s information and assess their current state to decide which treatment is most fitting for their condition. 

You can do basic tasks like dress a wound, diagnose an injury or illness, and administer intravenous infusions, pain relief medications, and other meds. 

You can also use more specialist medical equipment such as a defibrillator and/or a ventilator.  

You will ride in emergency vehicles like ambulances, and in some instances, as a paramedic, you’ll also be expected to drive an ambulance. You’d bring the patient to the local hospital or medical facility so they can receive more care. 

When you’re not working to help patients directly, you might train other budding EMTs or paramedics on the ins and outs of the job, such as how to use first aid. This teaching would be in an official capacity. 

What Kind of Schooling Do You Need to be an EMT vs. a Paramedic?

EMT Education

Whether you decide a role as an EMT or a paramedic is better suited for you, either way, expect to undergo hundreds of hours of rigorous schooling to enter the field. 

Also, if you’re looking for a list of EMT/Paramedic programs near you, check out our comprehensive list of EMT and Paramedic programs here.

At the very least, it’s recommended you start with a general education degree (GED) or a high school diploma if you don’t already have one. 

Then you can begin earning your EMT certification. According to the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians or NREMT, earning your certification involves you passing two exams. 

The first of these is a psycho-motor exam. During this exam, you will be quizzed on your knowledge in the following areas:

Administering supplemental oxygen

Performing mouth-to-mouth using supplemental oxygen

Applying suction to the upper airway adjuncts

Shock management

Bleeding control

Splinting

Joint dislocation immobilization

Long bone fracture immobilization

BVM ventilation for apneic patients

Cardiac arrest management

Patient assessments

The second exam, the cognitive exam, includes upwards of 120 questions, including live items, at least 60 of these as well as a few pilot questions. 

The exam lasts for two hours and requires your knowledge in these areas:

EMS operations

Gynecology

Obstetrics

Trauma care

Resuscitation 

Cardiology

Ventilation and respiration

Besides passing the above two tests, you also must commit to at least 120 hours of schooling to earn your EMT certification. 

Don’t forget that in some states, you may need your EVOC or Emergency Vehicle Operator Course license that lets you drive an ambulance. The states that require an EVOC are as follows:

Wyoming

Missouri

West Virginia

Minnesota

Virginia 

Kentucky

Iowa

Pennsylvania

Oregon

Hawaii

Oklahoma

Florida

District of Columbia

New Mexico

Delaware

Connecticut

Nebraska

Alabama 

Paramedic Education 

The training requirements are much more stringent if you want to become a paramedic. Rather than spend 120 hours or more on your training or education, you must dedicate between 1,200 and 1,800 hours in all. 

That’s about two years. 

There’s no way to fast-track earning your paramedic certification, by the way, so you must be willing to commit to the long haul.

You may be able to enroll in a paramedic training degree program at your local community college or university to get started. 

It’s ideal if you have taken college courses on subjects like English, math, and biology and successfully passed these if you haven’t already, as many paramedic programs will demand you do so.

The NREMT also offers a national registered paramedics course that includes a psycho-motor and cognitive exam. 

If you trained to become an EMT several years back through the NREMT, then the structuring of these courses will be familiar to you.

During your psycho-motor exam, you must excel in six areas. 

These include the Integrated Out-Of-Hospital Scenario, Oral Station Case A, Oral Station Case B, Static Cardiology, Dynamic Cardiology, Trauma, and Patient Assessment. 

The Integrated Out-Of-Hospital Scenario or IOOH involves an adult, geriatric, or pediatric patient. You will work with a partner who’s a pro paramedic to assess the condition of the patient, diagnose them, and administer the appropriate care. The entire scenario is simulated.

The Oral Stations may focus on areas like transport, field impressions, verbal reporting, interpersonal relations, patient management, patient assessments, and scene management. 

Your cardiac management skills will also be put to the test. During the Static Cardiology part of the psychomotor exam, you have to successfully review several ECG tracings and then determine the voice and rhythm for each one. 

The Dynamic Cardiology part of the exam includes you administering a treatment for a patient experiencing a cardiac arrest.

The Trauma section of your exam will review your skills in secondary assessments, history-taking, resuscitation, primary surveying, and sizing up the scene. 

That’s just the psychomotor exam, by the way. Your cognitive exam involves you passing a computer adaptive test or CAT as well as your National Registry Paramedic or NRP exam. 

You may have to answer up to 150 questions on the NRP test, including several live items (up to 130) and pilot questions. 

You have two and a half hours to complete the test. You’ll be quizzed on areas such as:

EMS operations

Gynecology

Obstetrics

Trauma care

Resuscitation 

Cardiology

Ventilation and respiration

Remember, since one of your primary duties as a paramedic may be to drive the ambulance, if you don’t already have your license (the EVOC) and you need it in the state in which you work, then make sure you get that license. 

How Much Money Can You Make as an EMT vs. a Paramedic?

EMT Salary

Before deciding what your working future will look like, you’ll want to take a peek into the financial outlook of the career field. What kind of money can you bring in as an EMT?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics or BLS lumps in EMTs and paramedics together. According to their official info, in 2019, an EMT or paramedic may earn $17.02 an hour or $35,400 per year.

We want to provide you the most detailed info as possible so you can make a smart career choice. Courtesy of ZipRecruiter, here’s an hourly and annual salary for EMTs per state in the US:

North Carolina – $11.57 an hour, $24,072 a year

Florida – $12.15 an hour, $25,281 a year

Missouri – $12.44 an hour, $25,869 a year

Mississippi – $12.47 an hour, $25,930 a year

Alabama – $12.59 an hour, $26,195 a year

Illinois – $12.61 an hour, $26,227 a year

Arkansas – $12.68 an hour, $26,370 a year

Michigan – $12.69 an hour, $26,390 a year

New Mexico – $12.72 an hour, $26,457 a year

Texas – $12.75 an hour, $26,514 a year

Georgia – $12.90 an hour, $26,822 a year

Iowa – $13.02 an hour, $27,090 a year

Louisiana – $13.16 an hour, $27,372 a year

Maine – $13.21 an hour, $27,483 a year

Idaho – $13.22 an hour, $27,504 a year

Oklahoma – $13.26 an hour, $27,582 a year

Indiana – $13.28 an hour, $27,626 a year

Utah – $13.30 an hour, $27,672 a year

Kansas – $13.31 an hour, $27,684 a year 

Arizona – $13.37 an hour, $27,804 a year

Wisconsin – $13.40 an hour, $27,862 a year

Ohio – $13.43 an hour, $27,929 a year

Montana – $13.51 an hour, $28,093 a year

Colorado – $13.52 an hour, $28,114 a year

Tennessee – $13.52 an hour, $28,131 a year

Delaware – $13.53 an hour, $28,151 a year

Oregon – $13.54 an hour, $28,155 a year 

Minnesota – $13.57 an hour, $28,223 a year

South Carolina – $13.58 an hour, $28,249 a year

Pennsylvania – $13.65 an hour, $28,396 a year 

West Virginia – $13.72 an hour, $26,534 a year

New Jersey – $13.74 an hour, $28,569 a year 

South Dakota – $13.76 an hour, $28,631 a year 

Kentucky – $13.80 an hour, $28,699 a year 

Virginia – $14.08 an hour, $29,288 a year

California – $14.14 an hour, $29,419 a year

Wyoming – $14.17 an hour, $29,467 a year

North Dakota – $14.18 an hour, $29,492 a year 

Nevada – $14.23 an hour, $29,604 a year

Nebraska – $14.27 an hour, $29,677 a year 

Vermont – $14.29 an hour, $29,715 a year

Alaska – $14.35 an hour, $29,838 a year

Rhode Island – $14.36 an hour, $29,877 a year

Connecticut – $14.48 an hour, $30,122 a year

Maryland – $14.49 an hour, $30,131 a year

Hawaii – $15.01 an hour, $31,,226 an hour 

New Hampshire – $15.21 an hour, $31,643 a year

Washington – $15.52 an hour, $32,286 a year 

Massachusetts – $15.63 an hour, $32,513 a year 

New York – $15.78 an hour, $32,823 a year 

Paramedic Salary

The same hourly and annual salary information for a paramedic is available courtesy of ZipRecruiter that breaks down the data state by state. Here it is:

North Carolina – $16.83 an hour, $35,001 a year

Florida – $17.67 an hour, $36,757 a year 

Missouri – $18.08 an hour, $37,612 a year 

Mississippi – $18.13 an hour, $37,701 a year 

Alabama – $18.31 an hour, $38,086 a year 

Illinois – $18.33 an hour, $38,133 a year 

Arkansas- $18.43 an hour, $38,342 a year 

Michigan – $18.45 an hour, $38,370 a year 

New Mexico – $18.49 an hour, $38,467 a year 

Texas – $18.53 an hour, $38,551 a year 

Georgia – $18.75 an hour, $38,999 a year 

Iowa -$18.94 an hour, $39,388 a year 

Louisiana – $19.13 an hour, $39,797 a year 

Maine – $19.21 an hour, $39,960 a year 

Idaho – $19.23 an hour, $39,990 a year

Oklahoma – $19.28 an hour, $40,103 a year

Indiana – $19.31 an hour, $40,167 a year 

Utah – $19.34 an hour, $40,234 a year 

Kansas – $19.35 an hour, $40,252 a year 

Arizona – $19.44 an hour, $40,426 a year 

Wisconsin – $19.48 an hour, $40,510 a year 

Ohio – $19.52 an hour, $40,607 a year

Montana – $19.64 an hour, $40,846 a year 

Colorado – $19.65 an hour, $40,876 a year 

Tennessee – $19.66 an hour, $40,902 a year 

Delaware – $19.68 an hour, $40,931 a year 

Oregon – $19.68 an hour, $40,937 a year 

Minnesota – $19.73 an hour, $41,036 a year 

South Carolina – $19.75 an hour, $41,073 a year

Pennsylvania – $19.85 an hour, $41,287 a year 

West Virginia – $19.95 an hour, $41,488 a year 

New Jersey – $19.97 an hour, $41,539 a year 

South Dakota – $20.01 an hour, $41,629 a year 

Kentucky – $20.06 an hour, $41,727 a year 

Virginia – $20.47 an hour, $42,584 a year 

California – $20.56 an hour, $42,774 a year 

Wyoming – $20.60 an hour, $42,844 a year 

North Dakota – $20.62 an hour, $42,881 a year 

Nevada – $20.69 an hour, $43,044 a year 

Nebraska – $20.74 an hour, $43,149 a year 

Vermont – $20.77 an hour, $43,204 a year 

Alaska – $20.86 an hour, $43,384 a year 

Rhode Island – $20.88 an hour, $43,440 a year 

Connecticut – $21.06 an hour, $43,796 a year 

Maryland – $21.06 an hour, $43,810 a year 

Hawaii – $21.83 an hour, $45,402 a year 

New Hampshire – $22.12 an hour, $46,007 a year 

Washington – $22.57 an hour, $46,943 a year 

Massachusetts – $22.73 an hour, $47,283 a year 

New York – $22.94 an hour, $47,724 a year 

Is There Room for Advancement as an EMT vs. a Paramedic?

You just got hired as an EMT or paramedic. Will this be your job title for the foreseeable future or is there room for you to advance your career?

As an EMT, your goal should be to work your way up to the paramedic level. As you can see from reviewing the two sets of annual state income data from ZipRecruiter, in every state in the country, a paramedic far out-earns an EMT. 

This is simply because a paramedic’s job is more advanced and requires more training.

Remember, you’ll have to dedicate at least two years of your life on training to become a paramedic, so you’ll have your EMT job for a while. 

The skills you learn throughout your training to earn a certification will both come in handy now while you’re still an EMT as well as later when you officially work in the capacity of a paramedic.

As an EMT, you’re only the first tier, an EMT-Basic. Then, you’ll reach the second tier, EMT-Intermediate. The third tier is EMT-Paramedic. 

What about once you earn that coveted title? As a paramedic, have you hit your glass ceiling, so to speak? 

Not at all! 

As a top-tier paramedic, you can go in all sorts of different job directions within the medical field. For example, you could become a physician’s assistant.

As a physician’s assistant, it’s your job to request tests for diagnostics, give a patient a prescription for medication, and even examine patients to determine what may be causing them pain or illness. 

You do need at least a master’s degree to work as a physician’s assistant. The annual salary for this job title is $95,000 to $130,000 a year, so it’s certainly a pay bump!

You could also look into working as a dispatcher, instructor, operations manager, administrative director, or paramedic supervisor. There’s no limit to the branching career paths your job as a paramedic can take you! 

What’s the Career Outlook as an EMT vs. a Paramedic?

According to the BLS, in 2018, the US had 262,100 EMT and paramedic jobs. Between 2018 and 2028, the field is expected to add on 18,700 more jobs for a job growth rate of 7 percent.

That’s quicker than average compared to other industries, says the BLS.

If you’re looking for a career path with job security and longevity, working as an EMT or paramedic are two great jobs. 

There will always be people getting sick or injured, which means there’ll always be a need for your job. 

Conclusion

EMTs and paramedics share similar roles, such as assessing and diagnosing patients, administering medications, and driving an ambulance. 

That said, paramedics can offer more advanced treatments on the spot because the job requires two extra years of training compared to working as an EMT. 

Appropriately, you earn more money as a paramedic.

Hopefully this article enlightened you and will help you choose your next exciting career path. Best of luck! 

from FirefighterNOW https://firefighternow.com/emt-vs-paramedic/

From https://catherinelee4.blogspot.com/2020/09/emt-vs-paramedic-whats-difference.html

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See the Dramatic Difference a Door Can Make (Russian subtitles)

from ULfirefightersafety https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wp3i4_L_1fM

From https://catherinelee4.blogspot.com/2020/09/see-dramatic-difference-door-can-make_25.html

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See the Dramatic Difference a Door Can Make (German subtitles)

from ULfirefightersafety https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M3BmNio_YMo

From https://catherinelee4.blogspot.com/2020/09/see-dramatic-difference-door-can-make_3.html

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See the Dramatic Difference a Door Can Make (Spanish subtitles)

from ULfirefightersafety https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=daka4lDoHRY

From https://catherinelee4.blogspot.com/2020/09/see-dramatic-difference-door-can-make.html

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21 Best Side Jobs for Firefighters

Does your firefighting schedule have you working one day on and then off for two or three days? 

If so, then you might find that your wallet has nothing but figurative flies in it by the end of the month. If you’d like to pad your bank account, it helps to have a side hustle or a second job. 

So, what are the best side jobs for firefighters?

We recommend the following 21 side jobs for firefighters:

Blogger

Real estate agent

Carpenter

Personal trainer

Landscaper

Uber/Lyft driver

Bartender

Security guard

CPR instructor

Waiter

Nurse

Lawn mower

Youth league coach/referee

Mechanic

Customer service rep

Dog walker

Delivery driver

Emergency technician

Painter

Online teacher

Tow truck driver

In this article, we’ll discuss each of these awesome side jobs in more detail, including how much money you can make so you can choose the right side hustle for you! You’re not going to want to miss it.

21 Lucrative Yet Flexible Side Jobs for Firefighters

Blogger

The first (and in my opinion the best) side hustle you can take on is blogging. This site is run by a firefighter looking to make more money on the side, and there’s no reason you can’t do the same as well. 

Your blog doesn’t necessarily need to be about firefighting, but rather, anything that you’re passionate about and interested in.

Blogging best practices dictate that you add content to your blog at least weekly or every other week. To increase your chances of ranking on the first page of Google search results, you need to follow search engine optimization or SEO rules. 

Use keywords throughout your writing, and try to publish content every now and again that’s longer, say, 2,500 or 3,000 words or more. 

Yes, these posts take a long time to write, but if you get a lot of views, then the time and effort will have been worth it.

If you’re worried about spending money on a domain, you don’t necessarily have to. These days, you can make a free, professional-looking website in minutes.

How much money can you make blogging? 

The answer depends on how often you write, if your blog ranks well, and how much traffic you get. 

Man blogging on computer.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics or BLS–which we’ll use as a resource throughout the rest of this guide–notes that writers and authors earn $30.39 per hour, which is $63,200 a year. 

However, that number varies greatly as I know several bloggers who are making thousands (and even tens of thousands) every month from their blog!

Real Estate Agent

Yours truly is also a real estate agent/blogger/firefighter. Helping someone find their dream home or selling a property so they can move on to something bigger and better is a great experience, and as a real estate agent, you’ll do that all the time.

You can either get hired as part of a real estate team or work as an independent real estate agent. The latter sounds great, especially if you have a primary job as a firefighter, but it’s not necessarily all it’s cracked up to be. 

You have to find the properties that are available, list them, tour them, and negotiate the sales price. Choose between going freelance or being part of a team carefully.

As for touring homes, while your clients will request times to see a property, it’s ultimately up to you (and the homeowner) when you will show a property. Even on those days when you’re firefighting then, you can still do some showings before or after work. 

Showing properties isn’t all you’ll do. Once a buyer finds a home they love, you’ll guide them through the buying process from start to finish. You don’t necessarily have to see the client in person to do this, which makes real estate a great option for you.

BLS says that real estate brokers and sales agents on average earn $24.39 per hour or $50,730 a year. 

Again, this number can vary greatly depending on you, your network and how much time and effort you put into growing your business.  However, it’s not uncommon (at least in my area) to work with several agents who make well north of $100k every year.

Carpenter/Handyman

Perhaps you’re useful with your own two hands and some tools. If so, then carpentry might be a field you want to look into doing outside of firefighting. As a carpenter, you will approve sketches and blueprints that come your way, measure out supplies for projects, shape and cut the materials, and then assemble.

The job of a carpenter can be a full-time one in and of itself or a side gig that you do to keep money coming into your bank account. To become a carpenter, you only need a high school diploma and some formal schooling through an apprenticeship program. Then you can get to work.

Carpenter working.

Carpenters earn $24.24 per hour, which is $48,330 a year, notes BLS. That’s not too shabby!

While being a handyman doesn’t necessarily require any formal schooling it too can be a great way to bring in extra income.  

There is a HUGE demand for contracting services right now and people will pay top dollar for quality and professional work.

Personal Trainer

As a firefighter first and foremost, you need to be in peak physical condition to handle the rigors of the job. That means you probably spend a lot of time in a gym, be that at a facility or even your own home gym.

Instead of working out just for yourself, why not show others the benefits of fitness by getting a side gig as a personal trainer? 

You can either seek a personal training job through a gym or visit clients in their own home. No matter which way you choose, you get to help your clients achieve all their fitness goals, whether that’s losing weight, gaining muscle, or learning to push themselves harder with their training.

The BLS quotes your earning potential as a personal trainer at $19.42 an hour or $40,390 a year, but this is flexible. You can set your own prices if you’re not part of a gym, which means your earnings potential is even higher! 

Landscaper

Do you love spending time outside but find that your firefighting job doesn’t really allow for it? 

For your side hustle, tend to nature and beautify homes as a landscaper. You’ll manage lawns, cut shrubs, remove overhanging tree branches, plant flowers, add rocks, carve out yard walking paths, and so much more.

As an aside, part of the job does include killing off pests such as wasps, ticks, and mosquitoes, but the rest is a lot of fun. 

Like what you need to do to become a carpenter, it’s recommended you have some skills and background to do this. This might be a multi-year apprenticeship, so perhaps hold off on applying to landscaper jobs until you’re certified.

When you can enter the field, BLS says landscape architects make $33.35 an hour or $69,360 a year. 

In addition, there are several things you can do that are similar but go great with traditional landscaping work.  

For example, I know a guy who bought a stump grinder and offers stump grinding services.  

Uber/Lyft Driver

You have a car, right? Why not put it to work as a driver for popular taxing services Uber or Lyft? 

While this may not be for everyone, I know several people who have worked as a driver and they seemed to have a great experience with it.

When you get approved as a driver for either service (or both), you put a sticker or sign in your car denoting your status as an Uber/Lyft driver and then get started.

Here’s how it works. You check the app and see who needs rides and where. Then, you choose to accept the ride. Uber or Lyft will take their cut, but you earn the rest, as well as a tip if the customer is feeling generous. 

The cool part about being a Lyft or Uber driver is there’s no limit to the amount of money you can earn. Indeed says the average national salary for a driver role like this is $30,513, but it all depends on how much you feel like driving each day.

If you live in a quiet area with not a lot of people, your earnings may be more limited compared to someone who calls a bustling city home. Still, whether you rely on being a Lyft/Uber driver as your second hustle or your third hustle, it’s a solid option. 

Bartender

Pouring drinks for people is an art, and one you can discover when your side job is that of a bartender. Ideal if your firefighting schedule leaves your weekend nights open, bartending lets you meet interesting people and always be at the heart of the action in your city or town.

Becoming a bartender isn’t necessarily easy, admittedly. You’ll have to learn the names and ingredients of hundreds of different cocktails and drinks. Then, you have to put your knowledge to the test to earn your bartender’s license.

However, depending on where you live/work the bar you work for may not require a license.

Once you’ve got that license, you can begin applying to jobs at bars and restaurants. Just know that some bartending jobs might lead to pretty late nights. 

You don’t want to burn too much of the midnight oil so you can be fresh for your firefighting job, so think carefully about how this side gig would fit into your schedule.

BLS says bartenders earn $11.39 and hour or $23,680 a year, but that’s not including those sweet, sweet tips that will surely keep you afloat financially. 

Security Guard/Bouncer

Do you have it in you to prevent people from getting where they’re not supposed to go? As a security guard, it’s your responsibility to protect information and valuable assets so these don’t get into the wrong hands. 

Similarly, with the bartender job a lot of bars and nightclubs are always looking for security.  Perhaps you can consider spending your evenings doing security.  

I did for 2 years and it was a great side gig!

Your security job could take you to many different places. Perhaps you’re security at a retail store, a bank, an office, or even a music and entertainment venue. 

Either way, expect to be standing on your feet for the entirety of your shift, which is the only downside. Otherwise, just look mean and intimidating and you’ll excel.

Security guards may earn $14.29 and hour, which is $29,710 a year, states BLS. 

CPR Instructor

When you were training to become a firefighter, you learned how to administer certified cardiopulmonary resuscitation or CPR. You’ve perhaps even used the skill a time or two before when on the job.

Why not keep your CPR skills nice and sharp by working part-time as a CPR instructor? 

Your second job will have you instructing classes of nurses and other medical professionals, showing them the ropes of applying perfect CPR.

You’ll likely use a dummy in most demonstration scenarios, or you could even perform CPR on a real person. Most CPR instructors are part of the American Red Cross, the American Heart Association, or other medical centers, so start there when applying for jobs.

This is a lucrative side hustle, too. CPR Certification Online HQ says you could earn $52,790 annually as a baseline, with some CPR instructors even raking in close to $65k a year depending on location.

If you’re feeling really ambitious and you have your ACLS or PALS card you could become an instructor for one of those courses as well.  

You could easily turn this into your own company that provides training services for individuals or companies to complete their new certification or renew their outdated certifications (think daycare centers, dentist offices, chiropractic offices etc).

Waiter

It may be a standard side job, but don’t discount working as waitstaff. Unlike a job as a bartender, you’re constantly running around from table to table, taking orders, serving food, bringing empty plates back to the kitchen, and processing customer bills when working as a waiter or waitress. 

Being great at this job is all about being able to remember orders. Having a vivid personality also helps, as customers will enjoy interacting with you. 

That will also help you generate more tips, a must in waitering as it is in bartending. That’s because BLS says waiters and waitresses make $11 an hour, which is $22,890 a year. You’ll need tips for a job like this to be lucrative enough for you. 

Nurse

If you think you’ll need a long-term side gig, nursing is a pretty fantastic pick. You will have to pour many of your spare days into studying nursing so you can pass the NCLEX-RN exam. 

Then, you have to get your state license and you can finally begin applying to jobs as a registered nurse.

You may even take your role one step further, spending more time on medical schooling to become a nurse practitioner, or an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN). 

As a nurse or a nurse practitioner, you help diagnose patients, provide them treatment, and hopefully save their lives. Sadly, this can’t always happen, so that’s something you’ll want to keep in mind if you plan on getting into nursing.

Like being a bartender, nurses can have long hours, so try to schedule your nursing shifts so you’re not firefighting on the same day.

The BLS notes that registered nurses earn $35.24 an hour or $73,300 a year. Nurse practitioners bring in $55.67 an hour, which is $115,800 a year.  

If you’re unfamiliar with the fire service you’d be surprised to learn how many firefighters/paramedics also work as nurses and physician assistants.

Lawn Mower

Do you have an awesome ride-on mower that you love to use? Do you sometimes wish you could mow the neighbor’s lawn as well? Why not take all that extra energy and enthusiasm and put it towards a secondary job?

As a mower, you’ll clean up lawns, including some of the most overgrown ones. You can even start your own lawn mowing business, which The Balance says can earn you $5,000 to $50,000 a year as you’re just getting started. If you’re more established, you could make anywhere from $160,000 to $250,000 annually. 

In fact, I know a firefighter in a neighboring town who started a VERY successful lawn mowing company and then got into firefighting.

Do keep in mind that mowing is a seasonal job for many parts of the country, so you might need a third part-time job to bring the money in (usually snow plowing if you live somewhere that gets a lot of snow in winter). 

Youth League Coach/Referee

Another great side job for firefighters is working as a youth league coach or referee. 

As a coach, you get to inspire teams of kids to work together, learn their skills and values, achieve victory, and understand what’s important about defeat. You can also foster what could become a lifelong love of sports in these kids. 

If you’re a youth referee, then you get to oversee the games, ensuring the kids play fairly while everyone still has a good time. 

Glassdoor says you may be able to earn upwards of $40,089 a year as a youth league coach. Just make sure you go for the paid positions only, not the volunteer jobs. 

Mechanic

You enjoy tinkering around with your own car, and when your buddy had a problem with his vehicle, you were able to fix it right away. 

That has you wondering, maybe you could charge for your vehicular expertise?

Absolutely! As a paid mechanic, you’ll diagnose all sorts of car issues, from the more common ones to the tough-to-find problems. 

You’ll also issue preventive maintenance, including changing out filters, balancing the wheels, rotating tires, changing oil, and tuning up the engine.

You do need some training to become a mechanic, but then you could earn about $20.24 an hour or $42,090 a year, notes BLS. 

Even if you don’t know much about cars, oil change places are always looking to hire hardworking and ambitious people.  This could be a great place to start!

Customer Service Rep

If you’d prefer to work from home, you don’t only have to be a blogger. You can also work in customer service. This job is often remote and requires a high-quality telephone.

You’ll be trained on how to handle customers, who will call with questions, feedback, and yes, sometimes complaints.

On the phone, you’ll guide the customer through their problem, working actively with them to come up with a viable solution.

If you by chance can’t help, then you’ll redirect the customer to someone who can. Overall, your role in customer service is important in inspiring customer satisfaction and loyalty to whatever company you represent. 

According to BLS data, as a customer service rep, you might make $16.69 an hour, which is $34,710 a year. 

Dog Walker

Are you an animal lover? Can you not get enough of warm, fuzzy, sweet creatures? Take the edge off your tough firefighting job by getting into the side hustle of dog walking. 

It’s your duty to take other people’s dogs for walks while the dog’s owner has to work or be in school. 

You may walk one dog at a time or several, talking them to the park, around the block, or through the neighborhood. This job is really a win-win, as you get to spend time around sweet animals and get lots of exercise too. 

Oh, and having a posse of pups with you is often a great way to meet people, whether as friends or something more.

The hourly earnings for dog walkers varies by state in the US; you can check out a comprehensive salary list courtesy of Care.com here. On average, expect to make at least $15 an hour. 

Delivery Driver

Earlier, we talked about driving for Uber/Lyft as a side hustle. Another driving-related job you might want to try is being a delivery driver. 

Now, what you’re delivering will definitely vary. 

You could drop off pizzas, mechanical parts, medical equipment, or all sorts of things. Besides just delivery, you have to pick up these items too, so you’re driving a lot.

Becoming a delivery driver usually only requires a high school diploma. This job, if you’re lifting heavy cargo especially, is a great way to get exercise and be paid for it. 

Speaking of pay, BLS says you’ll make $15.69 an hour, which is $32, 020 a year. 

However, if you’re working as a firefighter chances are you’re responsible for driving some pretty big trucks.  

Have you considered getting your CDL and driving commercial vehicles?  There could potentially be plenty of money to be made in your off time.

Emergency Medical Technician/Paramedic

The fact that you can work as an EMT/paramedic on the side is one of several reasons I urge aspiring firefighters to go to paramedic school rather than get a fire science degree! 

Click this link if you want to read more about Paramedic vs. Fire Science.

Another medical-related job to consider is being an emergency technician like a paramedic or EMT. You’ll work with emergency departments and transfusion clinics to transport people to life-saving medical treatment. 

This can get old quickly if part of your firefighting duties include EMT or Paramedic work, but you can do it part-time. 

Also, there’s room for growth, as you could earn your certification to make even more money. Getting the certification can be done online, so already a role like emergency tech fits into your schedule nicely.

BLS says your earnings as an emergency technician will be $17.02 an hour or $35,400 a year. 

Painter

Few people want to paint their homes or businesses, but it’s a job that needs to be done. 

Enter you, the professional painter. 

Either by yourself or with a team, you’ll head to the site, paintbrush in hand, prime up the walls, and then paint them an appealing, fresh new color. 

Besides just buildings, your job as a painter could take you to bigger jobs, such as painting bridges, equipment, and machinery. This is a great job if you want to put your stamp on the world!

When working as a painter, BLS says you’ll earn $19.37 an hour, which is $40,280 a year. 

Also, as someone that works in the real estate industry I can tell you that there is a huge demand for good painters!  It’s an easy and relatively inexpensive way to give life to old or outdated properties.

Online Teacher

You have lots of knowledge in that head of yours, and you’d love to impart it with the world. As an online teacher, you can do just that, and all from the comfort of your own home. 

If you’re an expert at something, then you can teach it to others and make money doing it.

Perhaps you teach foreign students how to speak English or teach budding musicians to play guitar. Per Glassdoor data, you can earn $42,579 a year teaching, which should surely supplement your firefighting income nicely. 

Tow Truck Driver 

The last side job we recommend for firefighters is tow truck driving. Yes, that’s right, one more driving job. As a tow truck driver, you’ll go long distances carrying freight like food supplies, farm machinery, or equipment. 

Or, if you’re ambitious, you could even start your own towing service.  Being an emergency tow driver for vehicles during storms or other emergencies can be a very lucrative side job!

You could be driving for days at a time, which will fill in those blank days on your schedule when you’re not fighting fires.

Although it’s physically demanding, getting the goods to their destination as a tow truck driver can provide a lot of satisfaction. 

You will have to enroll in a professional truck driving school to get this job, as operating a tow truck is nothing like driving even a firetruck. You’ll also need to obtain your commercial driver’s license or CDL.

Once you find the towing job for you, you could earn $21.76 or $45,260 a year, says BLS. 

Conclusion

These days, it seems like everybody’s got a side hustle. As a firefighter, you’re no different. 

With this list of more than 20 great side jobs to consider for more money, you can do what you like as your main job and your secondary job too! 

from FirefighterNOW https://firefighternow.com/21-best-side-jobs-for-firefighters/

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