What’s an Air Force Firefighter?

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Air Force firefighters are responsible for containing fires on military property, conducting search and rescue operations, and handling chemical and biological hazards. They also assist with repairing and strengthening installations and may administer basic first aid.

A US Air Force firefighter contains fires on military property, primarily Air Force structures and runways. In addition, this military specialty also includes tactical search and rescue responses to domestic and international emergencies. Emergency response is not just for fire suppression; an Air Force firefighter may also be called upon to combat a biological or chemical hazard.

The United States military has many Air Force bases across the world. These bases are typically made up of numerous buildings and multiple runways for incoming and outgoing aircraft. Each base must have a firefighting force, preventing damage from natural fires and offensive military attacks such as bombing. An Air Force firefighter must be on constant alert, ready to respond at any time.

Another Air Force firefighter duty is search and rescue, especially after a damaging fire. Debris and debris from a structural fire are highly unstable, making search efforts for a trapped person difficult and dangerous. These firefighters are specially trained to locate people with safety as a top priority.

An Air Force firefighter can even help America’s allies during an emergency. Natural disasters and military attacks create chaos in international communities. Firefighters can assist with search and rescue operations, as well as participate in training local emergency responders. Such training may include firefighting science and safe rescue techniques. Some firefighting teams involve trainees in developing escape routes, by land, sea or sky.

Repairing and strengthening US and Allied installations is an additional duty of the Air Force firefighter. Water pipes must be in good working order; some firefighters may inspect and repair water pipes to gain ample access to water. Firefighting facilities that house response teams and all necessary equipment must be organized specifically for rapid response. Firefighters cannot be harmed by misplaced or lost equipment during an emergency.

Military combat has evolved to include chemical and biological warfare. In response, firefighters are specially trained to handle these types of weapons. The firefighter will learn the components of major chemical and biological weapons and how to extinguish the threat. Specialized fire fighting clothing must be worn to protect the person from inhaling hazardous chemicals and any associated fumes.

This firefighting specialty is often the first responder to a disaster area. As a result, it may be necessary for an Air Force firefighter to administer basic first aid to other military officers in need. The firefighter must remain with the injured person until medical personnel arrive on the scene.




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