Wildland firefighters can work 14 days straight (called a roll) with 16-hour days and possibly up to three days travel before and after the official 14 . Night shifts and longer shifts of 16-24 hours are possible depending on the fire and area you are in, but not super common.
Is wildland fire a good career?
Wildland firefighters may be required to work long hours in challenging and changing conditions, such as high temperatures and steep terrain. A career in wildland fire has many rewards, including the opportunity to work in some of the most beautiful places in the country and create friendships that last a lifetime .
How long are Cal fire shifts?
Originally developed by the large departments in California, the California swing shift is a slightly different take on the 24-hour schedule. This means firefighters will be on duty for 24 hours at a time, every other day, for 5 days . After the 5 day ‘tour’ is complete they will be off for 96 hours (4 days).
Where do wildland firefighters sleep?
Because almost all wildland firefighters need to sleep either in fire camps or in spike camps, they sleep in tents, on the ground, and in hot, smoky, and dusty conditions . Shift work interferes with sleep, especially for those on night shift.
How much weight do wildland firefighters carry?
According to The Times News’ report on the weight of firefighter gear, the average weight of a structural firefighter’s protective equipment is between 66 to 70 pounds. In contrast, the average weight of a wildland pack is about 25-40 pounds .
How hard is wildland firefighting?
While some wildland firefighters work year-round and some work only during the fire season, the work is always strenuous and positions are always highly competitive . Prospective workers can often increase their chances of securing a job by earning a certificate or degree in fire science.
What is a Type 2 wildland firefighter?
The “Firefighter Type 2 (Crewmember)” forms the backbone of our efforts to manage or suppress wildland fire . These entry-level positions frequently work long days in hot, smoky conditions to build fire lines across rugged terrain with hand tools and chainsaws.
Are wildland firefighters underpaid?
Federal firefighting crews in California are understaffed by as much as 30% , which is particularly worrying as state officials brace for what could be a devastatingly bad wildfire season this summer. The shortage has the usual roots – federal firefighters are overworked and underpaid.
What is a Type 1 firefighter?
The Firefighter Type 1 leads a small group (usually not more than seven members) and is responsible for their safety on wildland and prescribed fire incidents . The FFT1 supervises resources at the FFT2 level and reports to a Single Resource Crew Boss or other assigned supervisor.
What is a firefighter’s salary?
50,850 USD (2019)Is Cal Fire a good career?
Working for CalFire is a safe and rewarding career . CalFire offers plenty of opportunity for advancement. The training is excellent and the equipment is always top of the line.
Is Cal Fire a good job?
Cal fire is a great dept
Working as a FF1 was a great experience, there will be very long hours and some you will work hard no doubt. Cal fire wants their employees to succeed and sets them up for success. Even though it is seasonal, there are great benefits and the pay is pretty good in my opinion.
Do wildland firefighters get housing?
But workers continue to struggle to find affordable housing. None of the federal agencies that oversee wildland firefighting guarantee lodging for all workers . Some locations offer spaces in bunkhouses free of charge or at reduced rates, but employees say these benefits are inconsistent.
What can I expect from a wildland firefighter?
Job Responsibilities
Prescribed burning . Wildfire suppression . Conducting maintenance and repairs on equipment such as hand tools or fire engines. Constructing fire breaks by removing rocks, trimming trees, and removing brush.
What is it like being a wildland firefighter?
Wildland firefighters can work 14 days straight (called a roll) with 16-hour days and possibly up to three days travel before and after the official 14 . Night shifts and longer shifts of 16-24 hours are possible depending on the fire and area you are in, but not super common. My record is 29 hours straight.
How do I get in shape for wildland firefighting?
- THE BUY IN. 25 BURPEES. RUN 800M (1/2 MILE) ...
- TURN AROUND. 20 EXPLOSIVE SQUAT JUMPS. 10 YARDS OF OVERHEAD WALKING LUNGES BACK TO POINT A. ...
- REPEAT BUY IN. 25 BURPEES. RUN 800M (1/2 MILE) ...
- TURN AROUND. 20 PUSH-UPS. 10 YARDS OF OVERHEAD WALKING LUNGES TO POINT A. ...
- BUY OUT. 25 BURPEES. RUN 800M (1/2 MILE)
Do wildland firefighters carry guns?
Effective July 1, 2016, EMTs and firefighters can now carry firearms on the job.
How hard is wildland pack test?
The 3-mile test with a 45-pound have not practiced or trained for the test, you pack in 45 minutes is strenuous , but no more so than should engage in several weeks of specific training the duties of wildland firefighting. before you take the test.
How much do CCC firefighters make?
Average California Conservation Corps Firefighter hourly pay in the United States is approximately $10.66 , which is 33% below the national average.
What Chainsaw do wildland firefighters use?
The STIHL MS 461 chainsaw, often used by wildland firefighters, is one of four models being recalled.
How much does a Cal Fire firefighter make?
Salary ranges from $87,072 per year to $113,004 per year in addition to benefits, paid time off and more!
What is a Type 3 wildland firefighter?
A Type 3 fire engine is what you’ll see if you live in a mountainous or rural community . These (typically) four-wheel drive apparatus are designed for rapid deployment, pick up, and relocation during wildfires.
What is a Type 3 fire?
Type 3. Extended initial attack on wildland fires . IC walks the line between a manager and a ‘doer’ Resources may vary from several single resources to several task forces or strike teams. Some Command/General Staff positions (ie, Division Supervisor, Unit Leader), may be filled.
What is a smokejumper do?
Smokejumpers are also called upon to provide rescue and first-aid services on fires and other emergencies in rugged and remote locations . Who are Smokejumpers? Smokejumpers are professional firefighters. Many have over 10 seasons of fire experience and some have over 20.
How much do wildland firefighters make in California?
How much does a Wildland Firefighter make in California? As of Apr 8, 2022, the average annual pay for a Wildland Firefighter in California is $49,425 an year . Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $23.76 an hour. This is the equivalent of $950/week or $4,119/month.
Do firefighters make good money?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average firefighter makes about $50,850 annually or $24.45 per hour .
What is federal firefighter?
A federal firefighter works for a federal agency and provides firefighting services to structural or wildland fires . The Bureau of Land Management, the U.S Fish and Wildlife, the U.S. Forest Service, and branches of the U.S. Military are just some of the agencies that employ federal firefighters.
