They are drilled to be up and out in moments. They can sleep or doze on night shifts if they wish after they have done their equipment checks etc. A lot of them had secondary jobs (e.g. bar work) during the daytime (having slept during the night shift).

Do firefighters sleep on night shift?

On a 24-hour shift, a firefighter may get to “sleep” at some point during the night. But this is “sleep” in name only, as at any time they may be awakened suddenly and abruptly by a bunkroom light and some form of a bell indicating there is an alarm.

What do firefighters do on night shift?

Firefighters do (sometimes) sleep at the station or firehouse. Stations usually are equipped with sleeping quarters, but depending on how busy the firefighters are, they may not have time to sleep while on duty.

How long is a firemans shift?

Shifts are generally during the daytime and are between eight and 12 hours per day. This schedule is followed by 12- to 14-hour night shifts for three to four days. Then, firefighters have three or four consecutive days off before the cycle begins again.

How long is firefighter training?

The average fire academy program takes about 12 to 14 weeks to complete a total of 600 hours of training. While most programs want all students to enter at the same time, some have staggered entrance options. Generally, youll need to commit anywhere from 40 to 48 hours weekly to undergo the program.

What firefighters do in their spare time?

Firefighters sweep, mop, throw out the trash, dust, wash linens and windows, and clean the fire trucks. We also take care of small maintenance issues such as painting. Public Outreach – Firefighters often provide station tours for the public or speak at special events.

Is 47 too old to become a firefighter?

Officially, there is no maximum age to become a firefighter. You could become a firefighter at the age of 60 if a fire department was willing to hire you. But thats the problem – most fire departments arent hiring older firefighters.

Do firefighters get annual leave?

Everyone needs a break now and then so London Fire Brigades annual leave allowance starts at 25 days holiday (plus bank holidays). There is also the opportunity to have extra optional days depending on your normal working hours.

What do firefighters do all day UK?

Some of these youll do every day, while others are less frequent. They include: responding immediately and safely to emergency calls and requests for assistance. attending emergency incidents including fires, road accidents, floods, terrorist incidents, spillages of dangerous substances, and rail and air crashes.