How difficult is wildland firefighting?
Wildland firefighters have rigorous schedules which often have them working for 14 days in a row before they get a couple of days off. Firefighters who fight wild fires usually also work long hours like double shifts. Exhaustion combined with severe stress increases the frequency and intensity of PTSD in firefighters.
Is being a wildland firefighter hard?
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.
How hard is it being a wildland firefighter?
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.
What it's like to be 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.
Is wildland firefighting stressful?
Wildland firefighters work in arduous, stressful environments. Like most emergency responders, they are expected to be calm and level-headed in the face of challenging, dangerous situations.Jun 30, 2022
Is wildland firefighting 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 hard is wildland pack test?
To complete the arduous pack test, participants must finish a three-mile hike across relatively level terrain while carrying a 45-pound pack in 45 minutes or less. An ability to complete the test in 45 minutes suggests an aerobic fitness score of 45, which is the standard for wildland firefighters.
What is the average age of a wildland firefighter?
Forest Firefighter Age Breakdown
Interestingly enough, the average age of forest firefighters is 40+ years old, which represents 44% of the population.Sep 9, 2022
Is the wildland pack test hard?
Based on your role, the fitness requirements that you must fulfill will either be defined as arduous, moderate, or light. Due to the intense physical demands that wildland firefighters must meet while fighting forest fires, they must complete the most difficult test: the arduous test.
How do you pass a pack test?
For the Pack Test, begin by hiking a 3-mile flat course without a pack. When you can cover the course in less than 45 minutes, add a pack with about 25 pounds. Increase the weight until you can hike 3 miles in 45 minutes while carrying 45 pounds. Also, hike hills with a pack to build leg strength and endurance.
Can you run during a pack test?
This test level is accepted by most states and by the U.S. Forest Service under some cooperative agreements. Requirements: 2-mile walk with 25 lb pack in 30 minutes. No jogging or running.