Firefighter

Firefighter

A firefighter team work together to contain a blazing barn
Occupation
Synonyms	Fireman (PL: firemen) Firewoman (PL: firewomen)
Activity sectors	Rescue, fire protection, civil service, public service, public safety

A firefighter (or fire fighter or fireman) is a first responder trained in specific emergency response such as firefighting, primarily to control and extinguish fires and respond to other emergencies such as hazardous material incidents, medical incidents, and emergencies that require response from the public that threaten life, property and the environment, as well as to rescue persons from confinement or dangerous situations. Firefighters may also provide ordinance, safety requirements, and administrative public functions for the communities and areas they are subject to jurisdiction to. Male firefighters are sometimes referred to as firemen (and, less commonly, female firefighters as firewomen).^[1][2]

The fire department, also known in some countries as the fire brigade or fire service, is one of the three main emergency services. From urban areas to aboard ships, firefighters have become ubiquitous around the world.

The skills required for safe operations are regularly practiced during training evaluations throughout a firefighter's career. Initial firefighting skills are normally taught through local, regional or state-approved fire academies or training courses.^[3] Depending on the requirements of a department, additional skills and certifications may also be acquired at this time.

Firefighters work closely with other emergency response agencies such as the police and emergency medical service. A firefighter's role may overlap with both. Fire investigators or fire marshals investigate the cause of a fire. If the fire was caused by arson or negligence, their work will overlap with law enforcement. Firefighters may also provide some degree of emergency medical service (EMS).