How many wildland firefighters die each year?

How many wildland firefighters die each year?

From 1990 to 2017, there have been 485 firefighters killed during activities involving brush, grass or wildland firefighting — an average of 17 deaths per year. There were an average of 12 such deaths per year over the past decade.

How much do Smokejumpers get paid?

A smokejumper earns around $16.00 per hour while a smokejumper foreman earns about $24.00 per hour. Smokejumpers are paid nothing extra for making parachute jumps; however, they do receive hazard pay equivalent to 25 percent of their base pay when working on an uncontrolled wildfire.

Do firefighters need to shave?

State rules require firefighters to have a clean-shaven face when they have to wear an oxygen mask. The rule falls in line with regulations from OSHA on wearing respirators. … But Jones said forcing the firefighters to shave and risk razor bumps could cause more issues with using the masks.

What certifications do I need to be a wildland firefighter?

Aspiring wildland firefighters commonly complete high school or pass the GED test. Completion of an associate's degree program or higher in fire science may prove beneficial during the application process. Wildland firefighters must be able to withstand strenuous physical activity and largely work outdoors.

How dangerous is wildland firefighting?

Rick Swan with the International Association of Firefighters says studies have shown firefighters who work with burning buildings have higher risks of cancer, heart and lung disease, even mental health issues. But wildland firefighters have largely been left out of the research.

Can a felon be a wildland firefighter?

There is no federal or state law prohibiting felons from becoming a firefighter. Such rules are up to individual jurisdictions to establish. … Additionally, they may not have had a felony conviction related to a firefighter position, such as arson, burglary, larceny, or murder.

What is the salary of a hot shot firefighter?

As a federal worker, a Hotshot Firefighter earns an average of $13 per hour during off-season. The pay increases during the peak fire season where they work up to 16 hours, sometimes even extending up to 48-64 hours. They earn an average salary of $40,000 during a six-month season (including overtime and hazard pay).

Do you need a degree to be a wildland firefighter?

Aspiring wildland firefighters commonly complete high school or pass the GED test. Completion of an associate's degree program or higher in fire science may prove beneficial during the application process. … Most agencies require firefighters be certified as Emergency Medical Technicians.

How much do hotshots make an hour?

As a federal worker, a Hotshot Firefighter earns an average of $13 per hour during off-season. The pay increases during the peak fire season where they work up to 16 hours, sometimes even extending up to 48-64 hours. They earn an average salary of $40,000 during a six-month season (including overtime and hazard pay).

How do I get fft2 certified?

To obtain a red card for an FFT2 position you must complete and pass classes on Basic Firefighting, Basic Fire Behavior, Introduction to Incident Command System and Human Factors on the Fireline. many of these classes can be completed through local community colleges.

How long do wildland firefighters work?

Wildland firefighters are often away from home, without days off, for 14+ days at a time. Wildland firefighters do not work regular schedules of 8 hour days but are often asked to work 16+ hours a day when on a fire or an assignment.

What is the highest paying state for firefighters?

The Incident Qualification Card, commonly called a Red Card, is an accepted interagency certification that a person is qualified to do the required job when arriving on an incident. The National Wildfire Coordinating Group sets minimum training, experience, and physical fitness standards for wildland fire positions.

What tools do Smokejumpers use?

Additional Communication Tools: Glow sticks, flashlights, flares, “CALL 911” flags, and emergency whistles are all needed to locate fellow smokejumpers while on the job and during emergencies.

How do you get a red card in wildland firefighting?

Next, you must earn your “Red Card” or Interagency Incident Qualification Card by completing the National Wildfire Coordinating Group Basic Firefighter course (S-130) and the Introduction to Fire Behavior course (S-190).

What is a forest firefighter called?

In the United States, an Interagency hotshot crew (IHC), or simply hotshot crew, is an elite handcrew consisting of 20-22 wildland firefighters, with specific qualifications to provide leadership for initial-attack and extended-attack on wildland fires across the nation.

How do I become a fire fighter?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average firefighter makes about $46,870 annually or $22.53 per hour.