Backdraft and flashover are two of the most dangerous fire behavior events a firefighter can encounter, and they're frequently confused. Both can…
Firefighting is one of the most physically demanding occupations in the United States, and also one of the most hazardous. Beyond the…
The United States fire service depends heavily on volunteer firefighters, yet their numbers have declined significantly over the past four decades. This…
There’s a statistic that stops most people cold when they first hear it: more firefighters die by suicide each year than in…
I’m going to be straight with you: the fire service is running short on firefighters, and it’s not a rumor or a…
One of the things that surprises people when they learn about the business side of the fire service is the cost of…
We’ve been training on structural firefighting fundamentals for decades. And those fundamentals still matter. But lithium ion battery fires don’t play by…
More than 70% of fire departments in the United States are staffed entirely or primarily by volunteers. That’s not a small slice…
If you’ve ever called 911 for a medical emergency and a fire truck showed up instead of, or alongside, an ambulance, you’re…
Every year, the U.S. fire service responds to millions of emergencies, employs hundreds of thousands of career and volunteer firefighters, and covers…
I’ve compiled a list of 51 firefighter interview questions (with answers). If you’re in the middle of prepping for your interview, you’ve…
Yes, fire can burn underwater if it brings its own oxygen. Underwater welding torches, road flares, thermite, and some military and rescue…
You learned through our last article that fire can melt most types of metal if the flame is hot enough. Now you’re…
Yes, fire can melt metal, but only if the flame is hotter than the metal's melting point. A wood fire (about 1,100…
Yes. Steam from a shower or a boiling pot can set off a smoke detector, especially a photoelectric model, because the water…
Fire is an unusual substance in that it is difficult to explain exactly what it is. Fire does also appear to be…
Firefighting is a difficult, dangerous job, but for the brave men and women who battle on the frontlines of fire, it’s the…
Most career firefighters work 24 hour shifts averaging 48 to 56 hours a week. The most common schedules are 24 on/48 off,…
Blue flames are the hottest, at up to about 5,400°F (3,000°C). White flames burn at roughly 2,500 to 2,900°F, yellow and orange…
A typical wood fire burns at 1,000 to 2,000°F (540 to 1,100°C). A campfire or fireplace usually sits around 1,100 to 1,500°F,…
Most U.S. fire departments require you to be at least 18 to apply (21 at some departments), and there is usually no…
Yes, salt can put out a small grease or pan fire by smothering it. Pour a large amount of table salt directly…
It my not clear to the average civilian, but not all fire trucks are the same. There are 7 different types of…
If you’re a firefighter, or training to become one, then you’re going to hear about Kelly Days eventually. Maybe you don’t want…
Fire safety is not only something you have to think about when at home but when at the workplace as well. It’s…
If you picture a police officer in your mind, you can’t do so without envisioning that shiny badge. However, the connection between…
You sometimes hear of occupations referred to as trades. These jobs seem like a cut above the rest, which has you wondering,…
Your pool is officially open for another season, but it’s also running low on water. You hate using the garden hose to…
Fire burns at a temperature range of 400 to 9,000 degrees Fahrenheit depending on how much oxygen the fire contains and its…
When you think of government jobs, the first titles that might come to mind are correctional officers, data entry clerks, or tax…
As we’ve made no secret of on this blog, firefighting has a lot of terms. If you’re hired to a fire department…
As an aspiring firefighter, you’ll learn a lot of terms to prepare you for your career. Fire overhaul is one term you’ll…
Firefighters are some of the hardest working individuals on the planet. They bravely sacrifice their lives to put out fires and rescue others,…
In late 2020, COVID 19 vaccinations began rolling out, becoming widely available in 2021. Today, anyone can walk in and get a COVID 19…
When a fire breaks out in your home or office, all logic can very quickly go out the window, and rightfully so.…
Nearly every occupation has its fans and supporters, but some have fans that take it to a whole new level. No, we’re…
In almost every industry, it’s only natural for slang words to originate that are like their own language among employees or colleagues.…
Welding is a dangerous task, whether you do so in a professional industrial setting or as a more low key part of your…
Plenty of people ask this common question: “Can I use a fire hydrant to fill my pool?” After all, waiting around for…
There are a lot of fancy fire hydrant designs on social media these days. So, it may be tempting to grab a…
We have all seen scenes from favorite movies and shows with children playing in water spraying from the neighborhood fire hydrant. If…
Are you familiar with arson dogs? They serve quite a critical role in any fire department that they’re a part of. What…
Where I work, there are fire hydrants on every street. In fact, they’re so common most people don’t even notice them. However,…
One of the most hassling occurrences in life is locking your keys in the car. Yet, everyone has done it at least…
You may have heard that you’re supposed to close your bedroom doors at night, but do you know why? Sure, it’s the…
A fire’s fuel source depends on several factors. For example, most house fires start in rooms people visit most frequently in the…
Polyester is a very popular material in widespread use. Ever since its invention, designers have appreciated the fabric for its strength, potential…
Bricks are one of the most traditional materials available in construction, although many companies prefer to go for concrete and modern options…
If you are relatively unfamiliar with the fire service, you may not be aware of the role of the fire marshal. We…
Fire pits sure are fun, especially as summer gives way to autumn and you want to combat that nightly chill. When the…
There are approximately 358,000 structure fires in homes every single year. Many of these fires lead to deaths, with 3,000 Americans perishing…
When it comes to career choices, firefighting was always high up there on the list, but there were other career paths you…
On the blog, we’ve talked about firefighting acronyms before such as BLEVE . Well, today, we want to discuss another one that’s…
Fire extinguishers are a feature in many homes, yet lately, you’ve wondered if that necessarily makes the extinguisher safe to use. Is…
Recent data suggests the United States has approximately 8.9 million fire hydrants. The number could be even higher into the 2020s. You’ve…
Calling 911 is scary in an emergency. You dial the number and hope that police, fire, or EMS will find you. If…
For the parts of your home that your HVAC unit cannot reach, a propane heater or two does the trick. You usually…
There are all sorts of fascinating myths surrounding the fire service. It’s hard to tell where some of them originated, but they…
As a firefighter, you think a lot about how fire spreads, but probably not so much about what it weighs. Indeed, fire…
If we told you to close your eyes and picture the color fire engine red, you could do so with ease, right?…
When preparing a fire engine for transportation out to the source of a fire, lots of equipment must be packed in there,…
According to a news article from Inc., the ideal amount of vacation time is approximately eight days. Most people can just go…
You’re one of those people who always likes to be prepared for the worst case scenario. Even if it never comes to fruition,…
Brrr. Can you feel that chill in the air? The temperatures are very cold right now. The weather might not be fit…
If you’re like a lot of people, you slap some electrical tape on wiring problem areas around your house. You intend to…
Firefighters must be privy to a variety of acronyms, such as BNICE (Biological, Nuclear, Incendiary, Chemical, and Explosive), CFOD, (Commission of Chief…
Have you ever had a smoke detector go off at home but you couldn’t put your finger on why it happened? It…
Smoke detectors are life saving devices, and every home should have one. However, according to a National Fire Protection Association or NFPA report,…
You couldn’t imagine a holiday season that wasn’t bedazzled in glimmering, shiny, cheerful Christmas lights. You decorate both the inside and outside…
Many parts of a firefighter’s uniform are immortalized, including the helmet, the reflective stripes, and the suspenders. Are suspenders something that real…
It doesn’t matter whether it’s morning, noon, or night. When you call your local fire department, someone is always there to answer…
No, the fire department does not charge you for responding to a fire, medical call, or other emergency in most U.S. communities.…
According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International or ESFI, every year, electrical fires lead to $1.3 billion worth of property damage, 1,400+…
If you’re like me, you watch a lot of Netflix (or Hulu or HBO, you know what I mean). In so many…
The word hero comes with mythic connotations. Maybe you think of comic figures such as Spider Man, Batman, or Superman. Perhaps you envision…
Using the word flammable in place of combustible and vice versa may seem like one of those “po tay toe, po tah toe” situations, but I’d beg…
Do you smell that? An odd odor around the house can make you nervous, especially if the smell just won’t go away.…
A first responder is anyone whose job is to be among the first on scene at an emergency: firefighters, police officers, paramedics,…
You likely rely on propane heaters for heating up boilers, cookers, or even fireplaces. In the winter when the weather outside is…
Now and then, the internet allows for some really interesting scientific debates on forums rather than the usual bickering. But, you can…
What is the best way to eradicate germs and reduce the risk of infections? The answer can all depend on the situation…
If your home is like many in the United States, then it has a fire extinguisher. Maybe the extinguisher was already there…
You may have seen Co2 written on fire extinguishers around public buildings or workplaces, so know that this gas is important in…
Mold is one of those problems we like to pretend doesn’t exist. It is never a good sign and usually indicates moisture…
Mosquitoes are some of the worst uninvited guests at any outdoor event. The last thing you need when inviting family and friends…
Firefighters require the very best in clothing and equipment to allow them to enter fires and dangerous situations. The problem is that…
Whenever we hear warnings about fires in the home, dryer fires are high on the list of concerns. There are fears that…
The world of battery operated devices has become complex and unavoidable in recent years. We have lithium ion batteries in phones and laptops, large scale…
Firefighters frequently work shifts that last up to 24 hours, and their workweeks are longer than the average desk worker’s. With so…
No. Fire departments almost never fill residential swimming pools. Hydrant water is public water that the utility bills for, using it ties…
The thin red line represents firefighters and honors those who have died or been injured in the line of duty. On the…
If a fire breaks out in a kitchen, our instinct is to find a way to smother the flames and get it…
There are lots of great experiments that we teach our children about static electricity, whether they get to use a Van…
Dust is one of those common nuisances when it comes to keeping the home nice and clean. It seems that it isn’t…
Vaping is a trend that has changed the lives of a lot of smokers who now have a better substitute for nicotine…
Great firefighters separate themselves from the rest. They’re always ready to act in the line of duty, and they seem to possess…
To extinguish fires, firefighters will often have to lay a supply line. This allows for a more consistent supply of water. A…
Baking soda, or bicarbonate of soda, is one of those wonderful substances that no home should be without. It is great for…
Generators are more common than ever before as families look for helpful solutions for off grid or backup power. A good generator can…
Yes. Gasoline can ignite without a spark if it reaches its autoignition temperature of roughly 495 to 536°F (257 to 280°C), which…
Fireworks are one of the great joys in life as we watch beautiful aerial displays. However, fireworks can also be dangerous in…
Sometimes even firefighters need assistance, but who’s willing to go in and help them? The ones that do comprise RIT or RIC…
Updated September 2026. Every boot below meets the NFPA 1977 wildland standard or is used under an agency approved equivalent. Links go…
You were sleeping soundly in your home when suddenly you hear it: a chirping sound. You write it off at first, then…
All fire departments are subjected to a rating from the Insurance Services Office or ISO. This rating is appropriately called your ISO…
Do you remember taking a class field trip to Safety Town as a kid? Many of us did, and for the ones…
When a fire breaks out in your home, you have two choices. You can escape (which is usually the smarter option), or, for…
To a bystander, fire is fire, but a fire actually progresses across four stages. Even though civilians shouldn’t attempt to combat fires…
We’ve talked on this blog about the weight of fire trucks, and these vehicles are gargantuan, especially when filled with water. Is…
Gas leaks are incredibly scary yet all too common. According to a 2018 report from the National Fire Protection Association or NFPA…
We live in a crazy world these days where nothing is outside of the realm of possibility. Thus, it doesn’t hurt to…
The average firefighter’s work schedule is anything but a nine to five. For some people, that can be exciting, and for others, it’s exhausting.…
A typical fire engine (pumper) weighs 38,000 to 60,000 pounds, or 19 to 30 tons, fully loaded with water, hose, and equipment.…
Power generators might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you talk firefighting equipment, but they are an essential…
The car seat you purchased had seemed so straightforward when you read the instructions, yet you’re struggling to get the seat securely…
A 50 foot section of 1¾-inch attack hose weighs about 20 pounds dry and roughly 85 pounds when charged with water. A…
Keeping your family safe during an emergency is a top priority from every parent, and the best way to keep your kids…
Updated September 2026. This guide now combines three of our fire safety articles into one page: the 18 everyday tips, 13 ways…
Working as a firefighter is a noble profession, as you’re saving lives and doing important work every day that you’re on the…
When taking a stroll through your neighborhood, you’re bound to see one sooner or later. We’re talking, of course, about fire hydrants.…
A fire has just started in your home. You quickly evacuate and call the fire department. They arrive in short order and…
Our pets mean everything to us, with many people regarding pets as part of the family. That’s why it’s so heartbreaking to…
Fire engine, fire truck. The terms may seem interchangeable to you, but did you know that depending on which you say, you’re…
Updated September 2026. Links go to current listings; we earn a commission on qualifying purchases, which does not affect the ranking. Quick…
Does your firefighting schedule have you working one day on and then off for two or three days? If so, then you…
I strongly believe that you should never underestimate the importance of education and training in the fire service, which is why I…
We all know that firefighters have one of the most dangerous jobs in the world, but what are the common causes of…
As a firefighter, I have the privilege of serving my community and being someone that residents can depend upon. But, a firefighter’s…
Fitness is essential for firefighters. This leads a lot of aspiring firefighters to ask what the best workouts for firefighters are. Truthfully,…
Dalmatians and the fire service have always been associated with one another, and this beloved spotted dog has become a popular mascot…
If you’ve ever seen a firefighters badge you may have noticed what looks like bugles, but what is the history and meaning…
Many aspiring firefighters ask whether or not they can be a firefighter with diabetes, as there are millions of Americans living with…
Millions of Americans deal with depression in some form or another, but can you be a firefighter with depression? It’s a good…
I received an email the other day from a candidate asking if he can be a firefighter and be deaf or hard…
Asthma is a growing problem in the modern world, but can you be a firefighter with asthma? Declines in air quality and…
Last week I received an email from an aspiring firefighter asking me, “ can I be a firefighter with glasses? “ When…
How long is probation and what can I expect as a probationary firefighter, is a question I hear a lot The application…
Firefighting is a dream career for many people, but many are left wondering how much does it cost to become a firefighter?…
If you’re an aspiring firefighter, have you ever wondered what the other fire department ranks are and what are your chances of…
If you’ve ever been to a parade undoubtedly, you’ve seen firefighters in their truck. But, have you ever wondered if you need…
Part of becoming a firefighter is have a medical exam. But, if you’ve ever wondered what to expect during a firefighter medical…
Do I need a degree to become a firefighter , is a question I get a lot. The role of a firefighter…
2026 update: The average firefighter salary in New York is $87,150 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). See the…
2026 update: The average firefighter salary in Minnesota is $45,170 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). See the full…
2026 update: The average firefighter salary in Arizona is $60,850 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). See the full…
2026 update: The average firefighter salary in Ohio is $58,130 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). See the full…
2026 update: The average firefighter salary in Iowa is $57,240 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). See the full…
2026 update: The average firefighter salary in North Carolina is $43,060 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). See the…
2026 update: The average firefighter salary in Mississippi is $37,230 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). See the full…
2026 update: The average firefighter salary in Tennessee is $51,590 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). See the full…
2026 update: The average firefighter salary in South Carolina is $43,900 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). See the…
2026 update: The average firefighter salary in Utah is $51,270 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). See the full…
2026 update: The average firefighter salary in Missouri is $55,240 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). See the full…
2026 update: The average firefighter salary in Connecticut is $73,760 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). See the full…
There are never ending benefits to becoming a firefighter, but in this article I want to highlight seven benefits to becoming a…
2026 update: The average firefighter salary in Alaska is $59,190 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). See the full…
Everyone knows that becoming a firefighter can be a long process, but knowing what disqualifies you from being a firefighter is just…
2026 update: The average firefighter salary in Oklahoma is $52,280 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). See the full…
2026 update: The average firefighter salary in New Mexico is $43,180 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). See the…
One question that a lot of people ask is can a firefighter arrest someone, or not? So, whether you are an aspiring…
2026 update: The average firefighter salary in Louisiana is $36,610 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). See the full…
What is a firefighter engineer? It’s a question posed by a lot of new firefighters. This makes sense as it’s not something…
If you are an aspiring firefighter, one of the best ways to get hands on expertise is to volunteer for a reserve firefighter.…
Whether you use the term bunker gear, PPE or turnout gear a lot of aspiring firefighters are left wondering what is firefighter…
2026 update: The average firefighter salary in Nevada is $70,510 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). See the full…
2026 update: The average firefighter salary in Delaware is $53,420 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). See the full…
Given Hawaii’s natural beauty a lot of aspiring firefighters ask how to become a firefighter in Hawaii. The fire department of Hawaii…
Chances are at one point in your life you have experimented with drugs in some form. Naturally, the question of do firefighters…
2026 update: The average firefighter salary in Oregon is $71,290 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). See the full…
2026 update: The average firefighter salary in Montana is $57,660 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). See the full…
2026 update: The average firefighter salary in New Hampshire is $55,730 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). See the…
![12 Things Firefighters Do [Every Day] When Not Fighting Fires](/wp-content/uploads/thumbs/replacements_12-things-firefighters-do-every-day-when-not-fighting-fires-640.webp)
If you were to ask most people what does a firefighter do all day, they would probably say that they spend all…
What is the difference between Firefighter 1 and 2? It’s a common question from those that are interested in becoming a firefighter.…
I was recently speaking with a firefighter candidate and he asked me, can I become a firefighter with DUI? Unfortunately, DUI convictions…
Everyone makes mistakes when they start a new job, but rookie firefighter mistakes can especially dangerous to your career and possibly even…
Facial hair is a popular trend these days, which is prompting the question from many candidates on whether or not they can…
Whether or not firefighters can have tattoos is a common question asked by many firefighter candidates. I would know because I have…
We all know that firefighting is a dangerous profession, but can firefighting cause cancer? It’s a good question and one I’ve heard…
Updated September 2026. Prices and availability change; the links below go to current listings. We earn a commission on qualifying purchases, which…
The Maltese Cross Firefighters If you take a look at almost any fire apparatus today, you’re likely to see the Maltese cross.…
How To Prepare For The Civil Service Exam At some point in your career you’ll probably be required to prepare for the…
Who Wrote The Fireman’s Prayer? The Fireman’s Prayer, a widely known poem amongst all firefighters today, dates its origins back to the…
As most fire departments are trying to recruit and maintain the best candidates for their department, they have adopted the firefighter polygraph…
Depending on the department the firefighter background investigation can be rather strict. Although the process can be difficult, it is not impossible.…
Updated September 2026 with a requirements section, CPAT preparation tips, and resources for women entering the fire service. Being a female firefighter…