Firefighter/Paramedic

Firefighter/Paramedic

This is skilled firefighting work in combating, extinguishing, and preventing fires; in answering emergency calls, and in operation and maintenance of fire department equipment, apparatus, and quarters. Work involves training for and participating in duties of protecting life and property by fire fighting and rescue activities, usually under close supervision. Employees of this class are required to learn and participate in the operation of apparatus and the performance of hazardous tasks under emergency conditions which may require strenuous exertion under such handicaps as smoke and cramped surroundings. Although firefighting and rescue work are the most difficult and responsible areas of activity; the major portion of time is spent drilling and studying methods, techniques, and organization, and in routine duties in the care and maintenance of fire department property and equipment. Specific orders and directions are given by superior officers; but the work requires initiative and a thorough individual understanding of firefighting methods.

The work requires examining, analyzing, and evaluating facts and circumstances surrounding work assignments and determining actions to be taken within the limits of standard or accepted practice. Guidelines include a large body of policies, practices, and precedents that may be complex. Judgment is used in analyzing specific situations to determine appropriate actions.

The work consists of the practical application of a variety of concepts, practices, and specialized techniques. Assignments typically involve evaluation and interpretation of factors, conditions, or unusual circumstances, and determining the methods to accomplish the work.

Relationships are constantly with co-workers, the public, and the Town Departments.

Attends training courses; reads and studies assigned material related to fire fighting and prevention. Responds to fire alarms; operates pumps, aerial ladders, and auxiliary equipment; lays and connects hose; holds nozzles, directs fog or water streams; raises and climbs ladders; uses chemical extinguishers, bars, hooks, lines and other equipment.

Ventilates burning buildings by opening windows and skylights, or by chopping holes in roofs and floors; removes persons from danger; administers first-aid to injured persons; takes part in emergency rescue; performs salvage operations such as throwing salvage covers, sweeping water, and removing debris.

Participates in fire drills and attends classes in firefighting and first aid.

Performs general maintenance work in the upkeep of fire department property; cleans and washes walls and floors; makes minor repairs to property and equipment; washes, hangs and dries hoses; washes, cleans, polishes and tests apparatus.

Relays instructions, orders, and information; gives location of alarms received from dispatcher.

May perform assigned fire inspections, checking fire escape building exits, and related structures and appurtenances for compliance with fire prevention ordinances.

Graduate of High School, vocational school, ACLS or equivalent; valid Massachusetts Driver's License, MA OEMS Paramedic and CPR certifications.