Most of my classmates were in their early 20s, but I kept up.
Even as I type this, I can't quite believe it. I'm not playing a firefighter on TV - I AM A FIREFIGHTER! And I've received so much support - it's phenomenal.We moved from Phoenix to Central New Jersey about a year ago. I'm a stay-at-home mom (though like most women with my job, I'm rarely at home). After we moved, I decided to put my volunteer efforts toward the community, as opposed to the schools which had been my pattern. I saw a sign outside the local firehouse that they were looking for more volunteers.
I went down and met with the chiefs and decided to pursue it. First I had to commit to four drills at the firehouse so I could see what it was like and they could get to know me. Then I had to apply through the township while they performed a background check. I had a complete physical and enrolled at the training academy for a 138-hour, 4-month-long course. Before I knew it, I was pulling hose and performing search and rescue techniques in full turnout gear with an airpack. Most of my classmates were in their early twenties, but I kept up. At the end of the class, we took a two-day practical exam that tested our skills on ladders, hose, hydrant, search and rescue, ropes, tools, forcible entry, and extinguishment. It was physically exhausting, even for me - a marathon runner and triathlete! Finally, we took the state exam to complete the course.
With this certification, I am now qualified to work as an interior firefighter, though I am encouraged to take more training to become a better firefighter with a broader skill set. I'm really enjoying volunteering with other people who want to give back the same way I do, and it's been a fantastic way to get involved in the community!
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