Hi guys

[JuicyJ]

Hey everyone,

First off, I am 22 years old and looking into a career change. I have always wanted to be in the fire service, but always hesistant to give it a try. Well I have finally decided that I should do what i want now instead of looking back and regretting what I shoudve done.
I am looking forward towards everyones input and hopefully encouragement to help me achive the goal of being part of the fire service. By the way this place looks like a gold mind of information.

[Co5EMT]

Welcome to world of fire and rescue. I was in your situation not too long ago. I had always wanted to be a firefighter and EMT, but never followed through with it...until last summer when I finally joined a volunteer department. I just recently completed my EMT certification and I'll take all my fire science and hazmat courses this summer. After I complete one year as an EMT, I'll go back to receive my EMT-I and then my paramedic certification. Hopefully by that time I'll have a full time job in fire and rescue. I'm having a great time as a volunteer and I'm running all kinds of calls. I say go for it because you're right, you don't want to look back on your life in 40 years and regret the fact you never pursued your dream as a firefighter. So, good luck my friend and keep us all posted on your career!

[FDNY101TRUCK]

Hello and welcome to the Firehouse Forums.

[JuicyJ]

Thanks for the welcomes. I look forward to your inputs and suggestions.

[LouisianaMedic]

Welcome to the forums.. Go for it...

My uncle gave me some good advice when I was choosing between becoming a Paramedic or an Electricial Engineer...

You can chose a career that makes lots of money,but dreed every morning getting up and going to work, or you can chose a career that you enjoy going to work that may or may not make lots of money...

Well I not making lots of money, but I do enjoy my job - been a paid Paramedic now 18 years..

[firedawg803]

If you keep your mind set straight, you can do any thing you want to, a firefighter included. Even though volunteer is not exactly the same as paid/ full-time, it kinda is. Any way, you may want to check out a volunteer dept. first, to see if you really are that interested in a career in the service. Through a vol. dept, you can get alot of the same training as full time, may even help you get a job when you are ready. If you do go vol. don't let anyone try to make you feel less, cause in alot of places a full time dept. would not be able to function properly without volunteers.Back in the day, everyone was a vol.! keep focused on your goals, and you will make it. Good Luck!