Firefighter Hixson TN

A fireman is a person who fights fires in homes, buildings, structures, and outdoors. There are two types of firefighters, career and volunteer. Volunteer firefighting is the most popular type of fireman. Those who make a career out of it get a salary, work full time, work scheduled shifts, and are usually based in a local firehouse.

Most firefighters, however, are volunteer workers. They make up a volunteer fire department, or VFD, and make up 73 percent of all firefighters in the United States. Volunteers generally have other jobs outside of firefighting and remain on an on-call status day and night. On-call firefighters may also be expected to volunteer and help with other duties, as well. These may include fundraising, training, cleaning, equipment maintenance, and more. Volunteer firefighters must leave whatever they are doing if they are called to a fire. This includes being at work, asleep, or out for recreation. A volunteer firefighter is allowed, by law, to leave their workplace if responding to a fire call, and cannot get into trouble for it.

Fire inspectors are an important part of fire fighting operations. They perform many duties and help keep the operation running efficiently and smoothly. A fire inspector’s many jobs will include inspecting buildings and homes for fire code violations, and locating any hazardous materials or conditions. Any accumulations of combustible material, problems in electrical wiring, and inadequate fire exits will be reported and cited. Fire inspectors will then help with the actions necessary to correct the problems alongside the owners of the buildings, and help get the building or home up to fire safety codes. Another job of a fire inspector is to inspect all fire protectors, such as smoke alarms and fire extinguishers, and make sure they are in working condition.

Fire inspectors’ jobs are very important as they also inspect buildings and businesses that store, handle, and use all types of hazardous and flammable materials. They make sure that the business is operating within the proper limits of the law, and that they are following all codes and regulations concerning fire hazards. A fire inspector can issue permits for public assemblies, making sure the proper fire codes are in force. They also have the authority to issue fines to those who are not obeying the codes and laws. They can help develop safety and fire evacuation plans, which can be a great help to large buildings and skyscrapers. A fire inspector’s salary can greatly depend on the company they work for, and the city they live in.

The job of a fire investigator differs from inspectors, although they sound similar. Whereas an inspector takes the measures to prevent fires, investigators mostly deal with the aftermath of one. If a fire occurs, investigators will go in to examine the fire site and collect evidence. They may collect glass, charred wood, and accelerant residue for use in determining the cause of the fire. Investigators will take pictures and videos of the damage done by a fire to help document their case. They will then use their collected evidence to decide on the cause of the fire. Fire investigators are especially important in cases where arson is suspected. They may use specialty equipment to determine burn patterns and flash points of material, which can then later help in solving a case.

Fire investigators have the authority to subpoena witnesses and property owners to court, and to obtain information from them. They can also arrest and process suspected arsonists, and aid in the swearing out of warrants. Testifying in court over an arson or fire-related case is another duty for those that make a career from being a fire investigator. A fire investigator is responsible for all paperwork and reports related to a fire or arson.

A career in fire investigating can be a lucrative and interesting one. The salary can vary depending on the company and area that specialists work in.

Harris Medical Associates

770-497-9685
1180 Satellite Boulevard, Suite 200
Suwanee, GA
http://www.harrismedical.com/