6B01
FIREFIGHTER
(Bilingual)
(General)
GENERAL DEFINITION
This is fire fighting and rescue work, controlling and extinguishing fires using a variety of specialized equipment and techniques, evacuating persons from areas of danger, and performing emergency treatment. Work includes inspecting multi-occupancy and commercial buildings for fire hazards and violations of the Fire Code and instructing the public on the principles of fire prevention. Work is performed under the general supervision of a fire officer. Assignments are stable in nature and are carried out in accordance with standard departmental practices and general work instructions. Employees work together in fire companies or rescue squads performing general fire fighting and rescue duties in assigned geographic areas of the city. The dangers inherent in the work represent conditions which can be only partially controlled through preventive measures. Work requires moderate physical effort when using hoseline, ladders and tools, and when performing rescues.
TYPICAL EXAMPLES OF WORK (ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY)
BILINGUAL SPECIALTY
Performs the duties shown below in the General Specialty with members of the English language speaking and designated non-English language speaking populations.
Drives and positions apparatus; operates controls to supply power for pump, aerial and other equipment; adjusts controls to maneuver aerial and other equipment to vary water pressures; reads and interprets gauges to insure proper functioning of equipment.
Assesses fireground conditions.
Connects and carries hoseline to fire; returns hoseline and equipment to apparatus on completion of tasks.
Operates nozzles; controls hoseline; directs stream of extinguishing agents to control and extinguish fire.
Puts hydrants and standpipe systems in service; connects, assembles and regulates the operation of deluge guns, ladderpipes and other equipment.
Uses breathing and other protective equipment; inspects and tests breathing equipment; fills air or oxygen cylinders.
Carries, raises and climbs ladders.
Rescues people in danger; removes people from buildings and other structures for first-aid treatment; transports people to hospitals.
Uses a variety of hand and power tools and work aids in all phases of fire fighting and rescue work; tests and maintains power tools and equipment.
Receives and transmits fire information; guides apparatus and aerial equipment operators; operates communications equipment.
Inspects buildings for hazardous conditions and compliance to Fire Code; instructs the public in fire prevention practices; prepares reports and keeps records.
Performs routine maintenance of apparatus; cleans and maintains station house in proper condition.
Participates in a variety of in-service training.
Performs duties on an assigned basis as an aide to a high-ranking officer, or as a member of the fire prevention or photographic unit.
Performs related work as required.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
SKILL IN:
problem solving independently and with a team
effective customer service practices and techniques
maintaining positive community relations
ABILITY TO:
learn the methods and techniques of attacking and extinguishing various types of fires
learn the operation of pumps, aerial, and related equipment
learn first-aid methods and techniques
learn the methods and techniques of making hoseline connections and taking hoseline to fire
learn the procedures to put in service hydrants, standpipes, deluge guns, ladderpipes and related equipment
learn the uses and operation of specialized tools and equipment
learn EMS/medical care protocols and procedures
learn patient care and apply training to respond quickly, calmly and effectively to
distressed patients in emergency situations
learn rescue methods and techniques
learn the proper use and maintenance of breathing equipment
learn the methods of controlling various types of hoselines and nozzles
learn the methods of carrying, raising and climbing ladders and to work from considerable heights
learn rope knots and hitches
learn the methods of receiving and transmitting fire information
learn the operation of communications equipment
learn fire prevention inspection procedures
learn the street system and physical layout of the city
learn methods of apparatus maintenance
operate large vehicles safely and effectively
read and interpret a variety of gauges
work effectively with others to accomplish tasks and contribute to an inclusive work environment
communicate and interact effectively with diverse populations
understand and follow oral and written instructions
respond effectively to the public
learn departmental report preparation and recordkeeping
speak, read and write fluently in the designated non-English language and English language for the bilingual specialty
MINIMUM ACCEPTABLE TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE (The following statement represents the minimum training and experience standards which will be used to admit or reject applicants for tests. Applications submitted by candidates for this class will be reviewed based on training and experience requirements as approved on 9/89.)
Education equivalent to completion of the twelfth school grade.
Sufficient training and/or experience to be able to converse understand and speak fluently and clearly in English and the designated non-English language.
PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to physically perform the duties and to work in the environmental conditions required of a position in this class.
LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND/OR CERTIFICATES
Possession of a valid proper class motor vehicle operator's license as issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania prior to appointment and during tenure of employment as a Firefighter.
Possession of State Certification as an emergency medical technician by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania upon completion of training and during tenure of employment as a Firefighter.
Class Established 1/1/53
Latest Spec. Revision:
CSC 11/20
Ad. Board 12/20
KH