Table of Contents
Acknowledgements 1
Introduction 3
Chapter - The Firehouse Culture 13
Chapter - Word of Warning: Attitude 17
Chapter - How 9/11 Changed Everything. 21
Chapter - Fire School Preparation and Challenges 23
Chapter - Graduation: Before the Interview 33
Chapter - Choosing the Right Fire Department Fit 37
Chapter - Pros and Cons of a Small Fire Department 43
Chapter - The Pros and Cons of a Big Department 51
Chapter - Preparing for Your Department Test 59
Chapter - Should I be a Paramedic? 65
Chapter - Orientation and Probation 69
Chapter - Rookie in the Firehouse 77
Chapter - It's Your Turn to Cook 93
Chapter - Complain or Remain Silent: Choose Your Battles 97
Chapter - How to Get Special Assignments 101
Chapter - Assigned to a Station You Don't Like and Other Station Issues 105
Chapter - You Hate Your Department and Other Burning Issues 111
Chapter - Four Kinds of Firehouse Associates. 119
Chapter - Off-Duty Time-Don't Be an Idiot 123
Chapter - Female Co-Workers 127
Chapter - Don't Lose the Job You Love 131
Chapter - Being a Team Player 139
Chapter - Sick Time/Injured on the Job 145
Chapter - Career Time Management: Short and Long-Term Plans 149
Chapter - Now That You're Promoted 155
Chapter - Career Finances and Retirement Planning 163
Chapter - Your Legacy 173
Conclusion 175
Quick Reference Guide 177
About the Author 191