Duties & Functions
Firefighters perform tasks that may include the following essential functions:
- Respond to fire emergencies.
- Respond to emergency medical incidents by analyzing patient needs and administering advanced emergency medical assistance.
- Operate all types of fire and rescue equipment, including:
- Aerial ladder equipment
- Emergency medical equipment
- Fire extinguishers
- Forcible entry tools
- Hose lines with nozzles
- Performing search and rescue of individuals in hazardous environments, including:
- Fire situations
- Collapsed buildings
- Automobile accidents
- Hazardous materials spills
- Confined spaces
- Responding to a variety of general emergency rescue calls, such as auto accidents, gas system leaks, and public assistance (assisting elderly and disabled individuals)
Firefighter Expectations
- Firefighters report to a Fire Lieutenant who supervises and works alongside his or her Company.
- Each Company works a 24-hour shift with rotating days off.
- Firefighters live at the fire station when they are on duty and spend their days:
- Responding to emergency calls for service
- Training
- Participating in public relations assignments
- Performing general station/grounds housekeeping/maintenance duties
Communication
Just as with family members, good communication skills are a must while working in these close quarters and are expected of all firefighters.
About the Department
The City of Waukesha Fire Department is a career department with 104 sworn members, 7 civilian members, and 6 firefighter interns. We are a group of professionals working together to save lives and property. We provide:
- Education and inspection services
- Emergency medical services (basic and advanced life support)
- Fire suppression
- Technical rescue
Training for Firefighters
Firefighters receive 200 hours of basic instruction over a 5-week recruit program and an additional 200 hours of education and evaluation over an 18-month probationary period.
Pay & Benefits
Starting pay for firefighters is comparable to other similar departments complimented with excellent fringe benefits that include medical and dental insurance, paid vacations, and a comprehensive pension and retirement package.
