Shift Work Versus Nine-to-Five

Firefighters assigned to the Operations Division work a 24-hour shift on duty and are then off duty for 48 hours, with a "Kelly Day" (shift off) every seventh tour of duty (three weeks). The result of this schedule is a work week that averages 48 hours. Firefighters also earn accrued paid leave time that helps overcome the challenges of a 24-hour work shift. 

Day-to-Day Living and Working as a Fort Lauderdale Firefighter

Here is some down-to-earth information about what a day in the life of a Fort Lauderdale firefighter really entails. In addition to practicing fire rescue services to the community, firefighters can expect to receive training on a daily basis, and at times units are required to attend special night drills and classroom courses. There are also regularly scheduled duties throughout the day. A typical day in the station includes:

• Roll Call: At 08:00 hours the oncoming shift is briefed by the previous shift. The company officer and/or battalion chief disseminate daily plans and assignments to the crews.
• Apparatus and Equipment Check: All personnel check and maintain the equipment and/or apparatus he or she has been assigned to for that shift. Additionally, all emergency medical equipment is checked to ensure that everything is appropriately stocked and ready for use.
• Station Maintenance: Firefighters are required to maintain their assigned stations. Cleaning of the kitchen, bathrooms, floors, offices and station grounds is performed each day.
• Training: Shift firefighters train everyday. Training may include reviewing emergency responsibilities, changes in procedures and so forth. Hands-on sessions of hose layouts, truck operations and medical procedures are a large percentage of training provided.
• Public Services: Firefighters are often dispatched to non-emergency calls to help invalids back into bed, rescue people trapped in elevators, assist people locked out of their cars or homes and to enforce the City’s ban on open burning (rubbish/leaves). Citizens often visit the fire station for directions, blood pressure checks or just to find out how to dispose of old paints and chemicals around their homes.
• Administration: Each response requires a computer incident report, and firefighters must prepare paperwork to backup almost everything they do.
• Zone Familiarization: Firefighters must be prepared for emergencies anywhere in their first-response territory. A great deal of time is spent learning the neighborhoods, parks, apartment complexes and shopping centers in the First Due Area.

These points above are a few of the responsibilities of a Fort Lauderdale firefighter. If public service interests you, this career is rewarding. When you become a member of Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue, you are part of an agency that holds itself to high standards. Our team members are expected to do the right thing and to go above and beyond for the citizens served. If dedication, commitment and service are hallmarks of your character, then you may have what it takes to be a Fort Lauderdale firefighter.

If you are interested in obtaining the credentials to become a firefighter paramedic, click the link below to be connected with a Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue Recruiter. 

Testimonials

"Working in a city like Fort Lauderdale gives you the opportunity to use skills and knowledge that you might not get the opportunity to use in other cities; not just in fire but in medical, trauma, TRT and HazMat. Not only do you get a multitude of calls, you get a variety of calls." - Captain John Heiser          

“After serving in the US Army for four years, I decided I wanted a similar job with a tight brotherhood, so I joined the fire service. The opportunities such as TRT, HazMat, promotions and call variety that the Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue Department offers makes it a great place to work. Being a firefighter means you are a honorable, caring person that puts the lives of strangers ahead of your own.” - Captain Rick Pardo

“Being a firefighter is rewarding wherever you go, but Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue Department has the best of many worlds. I have been here for seven years and what I enjoy most is the variety. I have seen the department grow and I see it becoming one of the best in the country. I am proud to say I will have a part in that.” - Captain Jib Webster

Potential for a Lifelong Career

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