New member...seeking advice regarding Physical Size

[djarmpit]

Hey everybody! New to the forum, but so far I love the site!


I'm currently about 5'4 and 130lbs, but have been working lately to muscle up and change my small stature.


My question is, have people my size been successful as paramedics or firefighters? I just feel lost and hopeless seeing guys that tower over me!

[BoxAlarm187]

There are men and women of all shapes, sizes, and heights on departments across the US. You might have to work harder to meet some of the physical challenges, but don't let your size alone keep you from taking the test.

[johnsb]

There are men and women of all shapes, sizes, and heights on departments across the US. You might have to work harder to meet some of the physical challenges, but don't let your size alone keep you from taking the test.

Ditto'

In addition to what was said. people of small size can be useful in many situations. For example, when a patient is trapped in a vehicle, a small rescuer can sometimes get at the patient better to start medical care. Size isn't as important as brains.

[fire49]

Yes they come in all sizes

How old are you

If there is a volunteer dept check it out and that will give you a personal taste of the physical demand

[rm1524]

We have a girl that is 5'2" and 120 pounds that has no problem doing the job. There are several on the med unit that are small and seem to have no problems doing the job.

[fire0099881]

And on the fire side, guess who will be the first one in the attic on an attic fire! Trust me with being about the same size as you, you will and can do more than you will think you would be able to.

[djarmpit]

thank you everybody! you've definitely boosted my confidence

[Wolfn]

I'm working on becoming a firefighter too and basically if you can meet the physical requirements (carrying a certain weight a certain distance, etc) I would assume anyone of any size can do it. We just have to work out and get in the best shape of our lives.

[tree68]

What's that old saw?

"It's not the size of the fighter in the fight, but the size of the fight in the fighter."

A hundred years ago 5'4" wasn't far off the average - many of your fellow firefighters would have been similar in stature.

If you can do the job - that's what counts.