From L.E. to W.F.F @ 43, is it possible ?

[Lowdrift]

Good morning Gentlemen,

I have been lurking for quite sometime & I thought it was time to say hello.
And I have a question ... right out of the gate.

Is 43 too old to start a career as a Wildland Firefighter?

I'm a Law Enforcement Office for the State of Florida. I will be locating to north Alabama & afterwards and thinking of changing careers to that of Wildland firefighter. If I may add, this is something I've thinking about for years, And now the opprotunity presents itself but .... have I waited too long?

For the record, I'm in pretty good condition & engage in a daily workout routine to keep me in shape for my current L.E. career. I'm no where near ready to retire & there's alot of work left in me. I've spent alot of time over the years camping & hiking. And I guess I have a what some would call a passion for the presevation of the woodlands. And I'd like to get a chance to "get on line" and help as much as I can...as backbreaking as it maybe.
Any thoughts & opinions are welcome, your guys are the pro's so let me know what your think.
Also, any info & links would be welcomed as well.

[myherostocking]

First I have been on the line next to people much older than you, that being said I think it really depends on wether you are talking about being on a hand crew or a type 6 etc. Also there is a big difference between a type 1 and a type 2 handcrew. The most rigorous would be a type 1 handcrew which if you are in good shape you should be able to handle. I have had 10 mile hikes in with bladder bags (45lbs) and my gear, work a 10 hour shift then hike out, I think you know more than anyone if you can handle it, Dont let age be a factor. Good luck whatever you do!

[frenchfireball]

welcome to the site.

[JCFD557]

That depends. Are you "stayed in the game" old or "watched the game from the armchair old". If you're reasonably fit with no cardio probs, you should be golden. I decided I wanted to be a Firefighter, and I did it! I'm 46, by the way. Retired Military. Go do it, bro