Firefighters respond to fire alarms, rescue victims, and put out fires. They undergo several weeks of training at the department academy in fire prevention, building codes, and emergency procedures. Firefighters spend much of their time at the fire station but must respond to alarms in all conditions. Becoming a firefighter requires a 2-year associates degree in fire science or engineering that costs around $7,300 for in-state tuition. While the job has risks like smoke inhalation and death, firefighters enjoy saving lives and property as well as educating others about fire prevention. Starting salaries range from $48,000 to over $100,000 depending on the role of engineer, captain, or chief.
