STUPID Rookie Mistakes to Avoid

Weekly Newsletter: geni.us/mpertz_newsletter_yt A lot of new firefighters make these dumb mistakes, don't be one of them.
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[@abingham3747]

Wow, the buying a 60-70k truck is spot on. Everyone has one, and then there is me putting into the station for shift in my 06 Mazda 3 with 317,000 miles on it.

[@just2botheru]

Here i thought my 05 civic had a lot of miles. Im gonna hit the 200k soon 😅 (I'm not a firefighter yet, but I did see this stuff back when I was driving trucks as a cdl driver for UPS Freight in Mechanicsburg, PA).

[@brandanbarnes6605]

I'm at 340,000+ on the trusty 2001 honda civic. We're good to go here brother. Of course all the guys with there diesels coal roll me every morning getting off shift, but we are good other than that 🤣

[@aricrbell]

Very typical of So Cal departments

[@matthewjeske1292]

I’ll be rolling up in my 06 Mazda 3 with 200,000 on two weeks when I start this career. Plan on running it till it doesn’t run anymore!! Lol

[@Soloeagle54]

@@just2botheru Ah, a fellow UPSer (I'm in Preload) I'm going through my fire department's hiring process right now. CPAT test the Monday after next. I think I have you guys beat with my '97 Town & Country though, lmao

[@jasonproctor9896]

This applies to not only firefighters, but military as well. Everything you stated is exactly how brand new soldiers act as well lol

[@ChiraqVet]

Yup your spot on. I served from 05 to 09. I see it alot. I go in walmart and see a private walking around wearing class As. Im looking at the kid thinking your only here for 1 thing, trying to find some tail, lets face it, we all have done something similar in our lifetime. Your proud, your healthy, you got some money, your ready for the world. All i can do is smile. There maybe a small percentage of folks that hasnt done that. Main thing I tell them is dont forget who your representing wearing that. Your not representing yourself, you represent centuries of warriors, brave men an women that gabe everything for your standing here today. NEVER FORGET!!!!!!

[@notanurse2373]

@@ChiraqVet brand new privates walking around San Antonio in dress uniforms is far less annoying than the “stolen valor” douches. Idk what that looks like in fire/EMS, but I’m guessing some knob out there is doing it.

[@oscarosullivan4513]

Makes you look like your compensating for something

[@poglifeactual7936]

Yea, boots

[@ramO-jp8tp]

why every branch except the marine corps lets their people wear cammies in a walmart off base is beyond me.

[@kevinkearns4164]

I worked 33 years with the LAFD. I worked in Recruit Training for 5 years. I'm now retired and teach Fire Science. This guy is RIGHT ON. I am so impressed with his wisdom. Listen to him, he knows what he is talking about.

[@larrycrumbs9219]

I also live in LA & I’m considering going into it. Any general advice ?

[@kevinkearns4164]

@@larrycrumbs9219 Apply to all the big departments, they don't just want Fire Academy graduates, they want people right off the street.

[@xMACHOxMANx]

I passed my NREMT yesterday! I killed it. It shut off at 70 questions. I start Fire academy next Saturday! Lets go!

[@swashi41596]

Congratulations

[@brendansimmons3712]

Congratulations man

[@kaidenow7848]

Let’s go

[@jrsaldana1]

Any tips on that? Start my emt next week

[@BornofFire117]

Good luck on the academy man! If you really want this as a career it’ll be the best thing you’ve ever done!

[@tracylyon9748]

I had a recruit in the first week of his academy bragging about getting to the front of the Costco line because he was a 'first responder." When I pointed out that rule was designed for doctors, nurses, and other people whose lives had been turned upside down because of COVID, he shrugged and said that he was just taking advantage of benefits Costco was giving. Needless to say he became a special project of mine throughout his academy.

[@bigredd690]

👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿

[@oscarosullivan4513]

Good on you reigning them in

[@spaghetti9845]

Best thing to do in academy is shut the hell up. If you brag about something stupid it doesn't just end when you graduate. That will follow you to your station and possibly the whole career. Cocky and confident is one thing, but arrogant and feeling entitled to discounts and all that is another.

[@Bobbyd0052]

👍🇺🇸

[@jared1718]

How did he end up doing? I just got hired I’m Currently in the academy

[@perryfire1]

Consider taking it easy on the ink also, especially early on in your career. It's been my experience that the most flashy guys that scream out to you they are firefighters tend to be the most useless on the fireground. Everybody knows who I am talking about: full sleeves with firefighter themes, always wearing a fire dept. t-shirt off-duty, having a truck decked out with multiple stickers and quotes, a fire dept. vanity plate, and as a bonus carrying a radio around at all times with the volume way too high so that everyone can hear that you are a firefighter wherever you go. Oh, and the cheesy pictures already mentioned. You should be the guy who didn't get his picture taken because you were inside getting the job done. Another cringy thing new guys do is tell stories ( in a serious manner) about runs they've made to older guys on shift. Do yourself a favor and keep your stories to yourself. Nobody cares at the firehouse. Unless you are funny, that's the only exception. And if you don't receive a discount because a cashier has either forgotten or is new, shut the hell up and pay full price with a smile on your face. Our dept. once had a business stop giving discounts because an idiot complained when he didn't receive his discount. None of us are owed anything from any store and if we do receive a benefit we should be grateful. I've never witnessed anyone using their class A just for shits and giggles. But wearing part on their regular uniform many times. I always called it my monkey suit and I couldn't wait to take it off, shower, and put on some comfortable clothes that would blend in with the general population after shift. Something you have to understand is that when you parade around as a firefighter people will expect things from you if any situation arises. Sometimes you just want to be left alone.

[@alechoppy7074]

Tattoos aren’t that big of a deal, as long as you don’t get things that are inappropriate or per no reason

[@oscarosullivan4513]

Is the station uniform not comfortable

[@itsyaboimat2393]

@@oscarosullivan4513 yes , it really depends on what uniforms your department buys

[@eastnjman368]

I think you have show offs and you just have people that are really proud of what they do. So its mixed for me

[@Otmkendoodoo]

This is great advice for me trying for the academy soon.

[@jacobdicks6474]

I would also recommend staying off of your phone during your probationary period. Of courses if something comes up and you need to take a call from family or address an important issues that comes up while on shift, do so. Don’t spend hours sitting in a chair scrolling through social media or playing games on your phone. Instead, read protocols, SOG’s or get out and do some hands on training with the crew.

[@cameronson3951]

But who doesn’t want a brand new 2021 Raptor while still being on probation 🙄🙄

[@Lalonde79]

Everyone doesnt because they will be buying the superior ram TRX

[@cameronson3951]

@@Lalonde79 true I’d rather get the TRX

[@kal-elthelast8834]

👨🏾‍🚒Make sure y'all can find a used one VS brand new

[@offgridham5421]

I stumbled on this KZbin channel by accident. I’m not a firefighter nor am I looking to become one but these videos are interesting and provide insight that us civilians can’t get anywhere else.

[@mike_pertz]

Thank you! I'm glad you like them!

[@dmh-177]

As a firefighter sometimes I feel guilty about getting discounts. I know the public appreciates what we do but in my opinion it’s a job that someone has to do and we’re just fortunate enough to do it. There’s been times I’ve been off duty and said no to being a first responder just because I didn’t want the discount.

[@antoniobranderas]

I can relate. I’m not a firefighter, but I’m a U.S. Army veteran. With the exception of rental cars and hotel chains, I personally don’t go around asking for veterans discounts. I will however accept them if the cashier or waiter (or online form) asks me about my status. I believe you shouldn’t feel guilty about accepting a discount that has been offered to you, because the business owner willingly chose to implement this policy just like you willingly chose to be a firefighter. Thank you for your continued service to your community.

[@dmh-177]

@@antoniobranderas yeah I get it man, same to you!

[@channingscott009]

I like to take what someone has decided to do in support of what I do and then I immediately leave an extra big tip, give money to the homeless or just buy someone a meal who doesn't have money. I am a firm believer in never rejecting kindness because the one who is offering it may have a very good personal reason to do it. Pass it on and make the kindness grow because in the end, we are all we got.

[@steveofthesnow5257]

Same, I never ask for a discount if I know it’s available. If they give it to me I’ll accept it but I try to be humble.

[@chrishdafish]

I personally don't like asking for discounts either because it makes me feel cheap and dickish and a little unnecessary. I only asked one time and that's when my dad sent me with his card to buy subway for everyone that was helping put new flooring in a house and I wanted to try and save him a few dollars so it wasn't even for me

[@jbfire4]

Great Great Tips! Just to tac on.. 1. Humility is a must on probation. DO NOT buy a flashy car, truck or toy your first year. It shows a level of cockiness. You will put a target on your back. 2. If you came from another Department… no one should ever know unless they specifically ask you about it. NEVER EVER EVER say “Well at my last department we did it this way” again…. target.

[@Stettafire]

"in my last place we did x!" Is a bad idea in any career TBH, no one likes that guy

[@watchman1194]

I worked with a guy that had a very old Toyota Corolla, his little girls glued sea shells and various other plastic toys to the old car and he did not mind one bit. Same station had another guy (Brand New Expensive Pick up) had it stolen right next to the station. Toyota guy said that's why he drove what he did, car was so ugly with all the stuff glued to it no one would ever think about stealing it. Great memories

[@mike_pertz]

haha

[@oscarosullivan4513]

Plus its reliable handy for retained firefighters

[@ScoobyDoo44797]

What I hate more than the "Can I get a discount cause I'm a firefighter" crap, are the guys who didn't even go to the academy yet and play firefighter. I remember we had a guy who went into a store bragging saying he was a firefighter wanting discounts and didn't even get sent to the academy yet. One of the workers knew some of the guys at the fire house and complained. The guy was an embarrassment.

[@gaitherfrye8444]

1- Do not EVER be late for work. 2- Ask before you bring anyone for a tour of the station. 3- Leave your home woes and stories at home. 4- If a senior FF takes the time to coach you - LISTEN! 5- Show some initiative about learning new skills and the culture of your shift. 6- Shut up about how you think things should be ran! 7- Never take the prize parking slots. 8- Never leave a mess for someone else to cleanup. 9- Get used to working holidays. Fire fighting is a TEAM effort. Be safe out there.

[@milo6308]

I have never asked for a firefighter discount anywhere... until I found out you get a whopping 50% off at chipotle. Sorry but a half off burrito is just too good of an offer to stand up!

[@tannerbottineau62]

wait really?? oh I didn't know that lol

[@tonyr.546]

This is great advice and I'm glad to see someone actually putting this out there for people to see. Sometimes people need to hear it from someone other than someone they know. Every single one of these things is spot on!

[@davidgsings5064]

Every video is always so informative! I'm planning on applying to some local departments next year when applications open back up, and I've been training my ass off and learning a lot fromm your channel/website. Thank you, Mike! You are making my task of training and learning much easier over these months.

[@southerntruckin4351]

I'm currently planning on volunteering at my local department. These videos are helping tremendously to achieve my dream. Keep up the good work

[@KongK3]

Love your content, I just want to thank you. I watched your interview prep vids and I got hired on and will start academy next week.

[@youmadbro742]

New firefighter here. Your videos definitely help me. I'm more of the quiet and listen type so these videos definitely help me

[@engine2truck6]

Bravo! Brother, this should be material that they cover explicitly in Boot Camp. I wish I could be your agent and hire you out to talk about this whole thing. It’s such a big part of being in the fire service but it seems like so much times focused (rightfully so) on the actual fire fighting.....But your “new guys” information you’re putting out there is simply awesome. Thank you. Now we should do some retirement mistakes. I’ve seen some old-timers make some mistakes when they retire both financially and psychologically as well as socially.

[@87amoore]

I really appreciate this channel. I've been watching the entire time I've been working toward the Columbus fire department and am now on the eligible list. Your guidance is definitely something I've kept in my back pocket and I just want to thank you for the work you do in and outside the station.

[@cheozz6449]

That's hilarius. I'm a career Firefighter in Germany, for a little bit more than 10 Years. Every year we have a guy, who is exactly like you had described it. Nice to see that we have all the same little Problems around the World 😅

[@ibekingtut9162]

Watched your videos, made it through the interview process for 2 departments. I start the academy on the 16th. You’ve helped tremendously. Thank you.

[@CarlosMendoza-gs9vo]

Congrats

[@mike_pertz]

Congratulations!! Good luck in the academy and on your new department!

[@Guy20205]

How’s the academy brother! Hope all is well!

[@ibekingtut9162]

@@Guy20205 going great, just got certified as an EMT and about 6 weeks into the fire portion. Graduation is in March.

[@Guy20205]

@@ibekingtut9162 God bless ya brother! Thats awesome honestly!

[@BornofFire117]

This video was spot on man. Thanks!

[@randallwhite3708]

Stay humble…remember once you get hired it’s not about you. Treat everything like a “headline test.” Great contents.

[@kaoticaep]

I’m planning on joining in 3-4yrs. Your advice is really helpful

[@zperk00]

I appreciate these videos man! They’ve helped me prepare for lots of testing and interviews. I start with my department in Utah next month!

[@mike_pertz]

Congratulations Zack! Good luck!

[@RyuHoshi1985]

Man I absolutely love this channel I’m so glad I subscribed

[@rebeccab3732]

I’ve been watching all of your videos. I’m currently a candidate and a volunteer fire department I personally take a lot of pride in being a first responder and helping people I was wondering if you could make a video of workouts or things you could do at home to help me train so I can be the best I can be when & if I do get voted on in 4 weeks, it would really help and greatly appreciated. & thank you for all the videos to you do make they are EXTREMELY helpful

[@CoolFireTrucks]

Great tips! I’ll be joining my local department in a year and a half so I’ll remember these tips!

[@matthewjeske1292]

Thanks for the pointers! I start my new career July 26th after a long 6 months of applying, testing and interviewing!! Like I’ve commented before, your channel has helped me out in so many ways! All these are Pretty much common sense but I mean I’m sure more than we know go and out do this.

[@jordans1917]

I’m so happy for you man! Congrats

[@mike_pertz]

Matthew!! Congratulations man! Good luck going forward, I'm so happy to hear that you start at the end of the month!

[@04Junior]

Really good stuff. I’m 18 and an active volunteer in a combination department in Texas. This was really good and super applicable. Some things I’ve learned so far is definitely the part about not wearing your station t-shirt outside of shift hours. You are literally asking people to pay attention to you as you represent the department. So if you screw up just one time while wearing a silly t-shirt, you could be in huge trouble. Channel scanners… having your radio on scan so you can hear everything that’s going on can piss off the higher ups. It’s not your district, not your responsibility. Chasing calls POV while off duty has been something that’s happened to our volunteers. That’s really bad Addressing the higher ups by their rank. Even if you know them by first name. The seniors will tear apart a rookie for doing that. Especially to a Chief Definitely social media. That’s super embarrassing to be caught showing off for the Instagram.

[@mateopresenta4999]

I havent seen all the video and you are absolutely right Sincerely like a FF Volunteer I had made some of these mistakes. Selfies at all. I hardly try to wear and behavior in the right way. I really appreciate all your hints. Regards!

[@Spenny.B-From-the_613]

Thank you for the insight Sir !

[@jared1718]

I just got hired and am currently in the academy, I like your page a lot and appreciate the advice!!!

[@noahmocettini9809]

Another thing I would have also said is don't do be playing activities off duty where you're clearly asking to get hurt because there are Departments out there that can cut you loose if you get injured while off duty on probation

[@oscarosullivan4513]

So no rugby

[@pmwceo9731]

Heyy!! Just got my offer to join the PWC Fire Department. I want to thank you soooo much for all your knowledge and help, the process was long but it was easy because of you. I appreciate you guy. I’m always tuned in💯

[@mike_pertz]

That. Is. Awesome! Congratulations on getting hired, and good for you for putting in the hard work!!

[@potatokitty]

Thanks for the pointers.

[@firstlookpro7282]

Love it, had to watch it a few times to sink in

[@ChiraqVet]

I really like this channel because it kinda gives those like us an outlet.

[@AttackLineConsultingLLC]

Spot on good advice.

[@derajE94]

As someone about to start academy, I appreciate these videos.

[@kgbiggie9871]

I’m a volunteer, recently we started staffing our station on our days off (we just crash on the couches in our lounge). I really don’t even like going out in public with my 5.11 pants and company shirt because I feel it screams for attention I’m wearing it to look professional if we get a call. Even though I’m volunteer I can see why you brought that up and I respect it!

[@cpl_0503]

Brilliant, sage, and solid advice from what is clearly a wise and experienced Public Safety perspective. ALL of those points also extend to new Police Officers... and I imagine it translates to many other Public Safety careers. For Police... I would stress his advice on wearing your uniform to get attention or gain advantages which can get you fired and taking or asking for discounts. Both of those can end your career in a giant hurry. Great video.. I wish more senior guys would take time to mentor and offer non-judgmental advice to the new guys BEFORE they screw it up.

[@brandanbarnes6605]

Anybody else here feel super awkward when someone thanks them for their service? I don't even know what to say back most of the time. I start stuttering and just say "YOU TOO!!!" lol 😆... Great videos Pertz.

[@tewksburydriver8624]

It is awkward, but just respond "thank you for your support". We do need the publics support so it makes sense to respond like that.

[@brendanfreeman8367]

I always say "it is my pleasure"

[@yangp2k]

My Marine cousin says the same thing. He was an Intelligence MOS and spent his deployment in front of a computer beating off every chance he got.

[@cafryrmn2550]

@@tewksburydriver8624 That’s the reply I use. People feel the need to show their support and appreciation.

[@anonymouspatriot5146]

@@yangp2k That sounds about right 😂

[@richardtaylor9798]

When I was a Captain (retired as a Div Chief) the one thing that stuck in my craw was seeing guys on their cell phones (when they first came out) while on a wild land fire telling their significant other how bitchen they are. It got worse with the advent of cameras in the phone. If they were on their phone they weren’t paying attention to their situational awareness. My company knew how I felt about this and at least didn’t have them out while I was nearby knowing I would crawl up into their grille when we got back to the station. Oh yeah, I drove a 1970 VW beetle and didn’t have any of the toys FF’s usually buy. My opinion was and still is firefighting is the best job in the world. I enjoyed my time off and worked ot when needed for emergencies not so I would have to pay for my boat.

[@Gbouchfit]

My old man swore by the discounts and all of that, one thing that made me not want to follow in his footsteps. But I joined with a different department this is actually my first official week but I’ve been at the station getting to know everyone and sticking around for the past two months. I’m just thankful to have the group of guys I do around me, being able to learn as much as possible before I get sent to the academy definitely is something I truly appreciate and enjoy

[@neversleeps125]

I know one that is a topic at my department is getting custom license plates. Career firefighters are eligible for custom license plates in my state. Which isn't a bad thing. But we've had people go get career firefighter plates without even finishing recruit school or probie year. Small thing but usually shows that they are more "team look at me" than ready to learn the job.... sometimes the 70k truck and career license plate come at the same time. Lol Great list

[@IDPlaya]

Just wanted to drop by and say thank you for all of your advice and answering my questions! I got offered the full time position job for the august academy!

[@mike_pertz]

YESSS! That's awesome! Congratulations and good luck in the academy!!

[@Infantry2011]

I had privates that made some of these mistakes in the army. Except you forgot marrying a stripper

[@kevadams1964]

Everything you mentioned is spot on. I guess the best advice is stop and think about how it may be perceived by others. Our pride will often tell us we should be able to do what we want without being judged. However, there is a reality attached to our actions regardless of what we may think the outcome should be. When you join a team of any kind, you become a representative of the entire group. Your mindset and actions should always be to make the group better. We should never be self serving and prideful to the point that we embarrass our teammates. Also, if you want to be firefighter so others will acknowledge your service and buy your meals or give you discounts, please find another career. The fire service does not want you.

[@vanmeter_]

this video had me cracking up! haha the "firefighter discount guy"

[@mennoregts208]

About the "war stories", if you are troubled by the things you've seen in the first three months don't keep it in. Please do talk about it with your loved ones (not in grose detail) and your peers. They need to know what is bothering you and your peers will help you to cope with it. Don't be the rookie that ends up wit PTSD.

[@mikemotter3685]

Currently going through the volunteer process at my local department. I drive a $12k 2009 Ram 1500. I'll fit right in

[@michaelschwebs5434]

USAF firefighter here, also fellow Ohioan! Just wanted to say I really appreciate your videos brother, they’re very informational and I’m sure they’ll be a big help when I transition back into the civilian world. I’m not sure if you know this but would being a prior military firefighter deter employers from hiring me? I know some friends that were military police and some departments back home frowned upon it. I appreciate all you do! Stay safe and god bless

[@jordans1917]

Trying to move from the army to the air force reserve as fire protection

[@mike_pertz]

Hey Michael! Glad you like the videos! I've never heard of it hurting anyone trying to get hired. In fact, all i've heard is that it helps. Given your experience I don't see how it would hurt at all! Good luck man, and keep me posted!

[@nerdgekko9993]

I plan on being a USAF. What’s it like? Do you get involved in giant wild fires like civilian firefighters do? I have a lot of questions but that’s my main one.

[@spartan92296]

Only ever took photos of the aerial and pumper units because I am still a huge dork that loves talking about all forms of heavy equipment. :D Obviously only when it was appropriate though.

[@myotiswii]

I am in the dive team, and all of us wear our dive shirts constantly. I have never had someone thank me for my service or anything like that, I did have some divers ask me about what that is once and that was it. The shirt just looks really awesome.

[@chuckfreakingnorris3333]

I’d like a truck, but I want something that’s reasonable. One that can pull a fishing boat and haul wood for projects, etc. But I don’t need anything too flashy.

[@NicoleRuffin]

Watching all your videos.

[@brandoncarrillo951]

Hello sir, I’ve been following your videos for the past couple of months and I finally got an invitation for the chiefs interview!! I wanted to say thank you 🙏🏽 Whatever happens tomorrow is all in the hands of God Update: July 20th Passed the cpat with a time of 7:55, but failed my first nremt exam so for the next two weeks that is what I am going to focus on.

[@Ameri-Texan]

Good luck and God bless

[@CoolFireTrucks]

Good luck!!

[@brandoncarrillo951]

Thank you guys I appreciate it 🙏🏽

[@Dee0426]

Good luck bud!

[@brandoncarrillo951]

@@Dee0426 Thank you 🙏🏽🙌

[@hounddog946]

Hit the nail on the head. Back in ‘78 when I started, I treated the job like I was back in the military. Yes sir, no sir, when asked to do something by an officer, or a senior FF, get it done yesterday. Treat the veterans of the job with the respect they earned. I sat on a mess hall chair in the TV room until the older guys told me it’s alright to sit in one of the vacant recliners.

[@Damsurf77]

I had difficulties at the beginning (still in my early years) not talking all the time about my last shift...

[@Tank196958]

One big, and I mean BIG, one to add. Dont be a t shirt firefighter. I will elaborate on what I mean by this. Every single department has these and as each department grows, we add more. If you want to be a firefighter, be a firefighter. If all you want is the ability to wear fire related t shirts off duty to boost your self worth to others, do all of us a favor and dont apply. As an officer, I will expect you to learn what you are taught and develop into a contributing factor on a fire. It is ok to not be a heavy hitter as I dont always need that. There are tons of jobs that need doing on a fire or other incident. Also, DO NOT be a "bumper sitter" or "rehab attendee" throughout the incident. This is what I mean by a t shirt firefighter. Bumper sitter should be self explanatory, rehab attendees are those who work for about 15 minutes and spend the next four hours in rehab talking, drinking water and watching everyone else work. Sorry, but over the years we develop pet peeves. The above are some of mine.

[@josephsapp446]

my fire district and not saying all but some wear theirs around often. this is no big deal to our department especially if you're volunteer so that you have an identifier if you respond to a medical emergency they prefer us to be easily recognized like that

[@sammitchell7310]

Whenever I drive by the firehouse on my way to work it looks like a dealership lot😁 firefighters drive the nicest luxury trucks

[@notanurse2373]

This stuff is also the same for privates just out of basic and AIT. Lol you can tell the ones who just finished bc all their war stories involve a drill sergeant or instructor. The other one- in the same vein as the truck thing is the noob who goes full metal and has so much tacti-cool crap hanging off their uniform and gear it’s an extra ten lbs of usually crap. And it all still has the “new car” smell.

[@oscarosullivan4513]

What things are crap

[@NoExcuses_FckExcuses]

"I'm A Firefighter" across the forehead for attention 🤣🤣

[@playfulwalnut]

It’s funny in the last one I wear my district shirts almost everyday I hav about five different ones but they are just really comfortable and breathable so that’s why I wear mine everywhere

[@oscarosullivan4513]

Fair enough

[@chrisbatten2432]

I drive a 2012 kia optima and so glad I do. Especially with gas prices like they are.

[@kevinlokitsjr6820]

Still rocking my 2wd 1999 2.3L Ford Ranger 🤣

[@oscarosullivan4513]

We get the ranger here

[@unknown1238157]

I’ve been an EMT for 6 years and don’t bring up work when I’m home or out with friends. I don’t even tell people what I do for a living unless they specifically ask.

[@TheTopNotchOne]

keeping it professional

[@EICL2011]

I almost chuckled out loud for this video. so hilarious!

[@mountainslopes]

“This is not advise. I am not a financial advisor. I’d advise you to…”

[@Firebuff101]

My department has a strict social media policy. Cannot post anything in which the department's name is visible without an officer's permission. Also cannot put on your social media that you're with the department. First time is a written warning, second is a suspension, and so on from there.

[@JrBarthelemy]

Good to know. My cousin is 7 months in as a FF and I’m in the academy. I’ll just act as if I’m still in the academy being respectful and the “Yes Sir” and “No Sir” to the ones I’m working with

[@GioSerg94]

People go out and wear their class As in public?? I don’t like wearing them when I have to! 😂

[@oscarosullivan4513]

How uncomfortable are they

[@HM2SGT]

First Brushfire in Central Texas, Chief told me not to go off the pavement! But another chief from another department was on scene and in command. He tells me to go down this side of that fence, I’ll go down the other side and we’ll work it. Fortunately when the sugar sand ate my truck it was close enough to the road that the tow could get a cable to us. Pumped off all the water and learned a lesson costly only to my ego.

[@deanhoward4128]

As a retired Captain,I think your videos are great,especially for the new guys the " rookies" one thing that always bothered me,was when the younger guys got a few months under their belts & thought they knew more than the guys that have 5,10,& 15 years of service & a rookie trying to show the old man how its done! I hate that attitude! I don't care how many C.E.'s a new guy has or how much stronger & faster than the old guys they are; show some respect to the older more experienced guys! I think training is one of the most important things a firefighter can do!; the fire service is constantly changing,newer better ways of doing things,new equipment to learn on & new ideas are a constant ongoing thing; but all the training in the academy, will never replace the on the job experience an older firefighter has! Show them respect & don't get mad when the old man shows you up & teaches a hard lesson! Too many times younger people don't think the older guys know anything! Listen to the older guys; the reason they've made it this far in the fire service,without getting killed, is because they listened & learned from the old guy in their day!

[@Weduboey]

Thxs for the tip

[@Blazefork]

Our state offers personalized tags as well, it's a minimum of 1 year of service before they are eligible for one on our dept......humility is an important trait to cultivate.

[@jelracer98]

I never made a rookie mistake only pulled the scba bracket off the wall on my first working fire and wore it the whole fire and the fire chief asked where i found the extra scba bracket it looks so good Jiimmy Logan

[@markyager3701]

What is the best way to help.the crew out in the morning is tt fresh food in the morning or let everyone cook there own meal

[@mike_pertz]

Make sure coffee is ready. Food is always nice as well but some people may be more particular than others.

[@tykrwn6083]

I am 16 right now and I am looking into becoming a Fire Fighter thank you for these videos

[@sad_vegan507]

I love this channel

[@BackWoods1111]

All are spot on besides the selfie one you earned your right to wear the uniform as long as it is not on a scene or in a combat zone and has good taste 🤷🏽 if a guy wants a picture in his academy uniform, or his cammies, or his gear he earned the right some may not like it but def worse things you could be doing 😂 and not everyones opinions should always matter as long as your happy

[@10piecemctunes89]

My first time in a structural fire I made the mistake of not spraying the ceiling and it almost got flashed over, and obviously it was my first day so my chief cut me a little slack but still give me a talking to

[@bigsamdog1]

When I came in in 1981, all the guys personal pick-ups were older and/or used. Now, when I drive by the stations, I see big, newer model 4x4s. Best advice is "Fly below the radar", maintain a low profile and willingly take on the s__t detail that comes along.

[@Spectrify_LIVE]

What happens when you already have the big red pickup truck? 😂. I bought it after a year of flipping cars, 2015 GMC Sierra 2500 Duramax. I’ve got the truck, now I’ve gotta wait till my EMT course next month.

[@Deloscielos94]

lol its amazing how similar this relates to newbies in the military

[@dkim3]

I’m about to start the academy in two weeks Any advice for me?

[@rp1645]

Thank you for this TALK for Newbees. The First Day. Bring DONUTS for ALL the crews, yes including the Ladder company. Listen carefully to all the older FF. Take notes. Go over the compartment Lay outs. Memorize your Rig. Look at Pump panal. Ask Engineer (Driver) questions about Pumping, slide under Engine, Look at the plumbing from the underside. How does it route inside the pump panel. Don't get overwhelmed by the Ladder Rescue, the other Equipment in your station. Learn your assignment, let that piece of Equipment be your focus.

[@jordans1917]

We see it all the time in the military, new private to the unit and buying a 30-40k mustang or corvette and can’t afford the payments and maintenance

[@oscarosullivan4513]

How much are they paid

[@jordans1917]

@@oscarosullivan4513 less than 980 a check every two weeks

[@oscarosullivan4513]

@@jordans1917 Those sort of spending habits are living beyond their means

[@carlkpsplucky5554]

@@jordans1917 private? They’d be lucky if they got 700 every 2 weeks depending on their state of residence.

[@aroque2170]

if the department I am applying to doesn't say they do polygraphs, does that mean I will not ever do one there in the process?

[@wolfeabroad758]

I shouldn't even say this, but this is totally my friend. With the selfies, and always talking about the job, and posting a million pictures, and the giant truck and now motorcycle. It's like, believe it or not, we already all know you're a firefighter. xD He's a good dude, just kind of like, ooooooook then.

[@captwetbeard8524]

Save the photo shoot for the calendar

[@IcedEarth426]

My recruit class started when we were all getting extra COVID pay. A lot of them went out and bought new trucks. A lot of them are crying now that the COVID pay has stopped.

[@100Mmore]

LOL guys who signed on for 500 a month at 84 months

[@oscarosullivan4513]

Spoiled children

[@jreese46]

I think everybody's been through some variation of at least one of these phases. The really bad ones were called "wackers."

[@Skippy2539]

My 4th or 5th fire we got stuck in a ditch and had to dump our water to get out. We went to go fill up at a dam and we are in the peak of drought so I'm complacent and get to close to the water and get knee height stuck in mud

[@oscarosullivan4513]

How did you get into a ditch

[@Skippy2539]

@@oscarosullivan4513 We were backing up and the driver had to get close to this small ditch. The ground was fairly stable or so we thought, ground gave way and we slid in

[@pasqueldavis3562]

I gotta submit my pics for the calendar, November's gotta be hot 🤣