Fire Inspectors
Career Snapshot
Fire inspectors stop fires by preventing them from occurring in the first place. Inspectors evaluate commercial buildings for compliance with fire rules as part of a department's fire protection division, looking for circumstances that could cause a fire. They may even put the fire extinguishers and smoke alarms to the test. Developers frequently request that they review and approve plans for new structures.
Fire inspectors share their knowledge of fire prevention with the general public. They frequently speak about fire safety to schools or organisations. Many inspectors are also fire investigators, digging through ashes and debris to determine what caused a fire. Their findings may indicate a fatal accident or the need for a criminal inquiry.
Municipal employment in firefighting are earned through written tests, training at a training centre or academy, or a departmental apprenticeship programme. Seniority and examinations are used to determine promotions. Despite the erratic hours and hazards of firefighting, competition for available positions is expected to remain fierce.
People are drawn to the industry because a high school certificate is often sufficient for entry-level roles, a pension is assured after 20 years of service, and few jobs need as much bravery or command as much respect.
Characteristics
Activities
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Key Abilities
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Deductive Reasoning
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Flexibility of Closure
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Inductive Reasoning
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Near Vision
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Oral Comprehension
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Oral Expression
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Perceptual Speed
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Problem Sensitivity
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Top Skills