Do you know the two main professions categorized as first responders? Both deal with dangerous and unpredictable situations which require executing life-saving decisions in a split second. Those working in both professions live and breathe by the same oath to defend the constitution, have a willingness to help others in need, serve and protect unselfishly, and have the courage to perform the duties of the job, daily. They are Law Enforcement Officers and Firefighters. While they do share many similarities with their training, the differences in their calls for service and lifestyles are what really sets them apart. Without doubt, I believe the Law Enforcement profession is more challenging. Firefighters face challenging mental and physical training conditions that revolve around first aid, fire safety and …show more content…
They respond to major wrecks, fires, fire alarms, chemical spills and medical emergencies when needed. However, since Emergency Medical Service agencies have started carrying the Jaws of Life, a firefighter’s primary calls for service are fires.
Law Enforcement Officers respond to a vast variety of calls as well as some of the same calls as firefighters. A few examples are, domestic situations, shots fired, burglaries, crowd controls, suicides, investigating crime scenes, and assisting the Department of Human Services with the court-ordered removal of adolescents from their home. They are required to keep a level head on every call they respond to no matter the situation.
A Firefighter’s lifestyle generally revolves around working 24hrs on and 48hrs off. This schedule allows them to have more free time to relax, release stress and enjoy their time away from work. The firehouse is an extension to their family, celebrating holidays and having dinners together. This kind of lifestyle enables them to let down their guard and go about their normal daily routines without any