Commons:Category:Firefighting

Firefighting is the act of extinguishing fires. A firefighter suppresses and extinguishes fires to protect lives, property and the environment. Firefighters typically undergo a high degree of technical training. This involves structural firefighting and wildfire suppression, along with providing emergency medical services.

History

Firefighting has a long history dating back to the ancient Roman times. In the Roman Empire, Augustus established a force known as the Vigiles to fight fires using bucket chains and pumps, as well as poles, hooks and even ballistae to tear down buildings in advance of a fire to prevent its spread.

Firefighting methods

Firefighting operations are typically carried out by firefighters using various tools and techniques. Some of the main firefighting methods include:

• Fire extinguishers: Portable devices used to put out small fires.
• Fire hoses: High-pressure hoses that carry water or other fire retardant to a fire to extinguish it.
• Fire hydrants: A connection point by which firefighters can tap into a water supply.
• Fire engines: A vehicle designed for firefighting operations.

Firefighting worldwide

Firefighting services vary around the world, but usually include urban firefighting services, which may be paid, volunteer or a combination, and wildland firefighting crews, which can be paid or volunteer.

Firefighting and health

Firefighting is a highly stressful job that can have a significant impact on a firefighter's physical and mental health. Firefighters are exposed to a variety of hazardous conditions including heat, smoke, and dangerous chemicals. This can lead to a variety of health issues, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

See also

• Fire department
• Fire safety
• Fire prevention
• Firefighter training