What is this job like???

Every year, fires destroy billions of dollars worth of property. Fire fighters help protect people and property, they put out fire which is really difficult and dangerous, it takes organization and team work. Fire fighters also save people who are trapped in burning buildings. They also treat people who are hurt or ill. In between alarms, fire fighters must clean and repair their equipment. They practice fire fighting skills, and they may perform fire inspections. They exercise to keep fit. Some fire fighters work at airports or in factories. Others work in forests and rural areas. Special fire fighters, called smoke jumpers, fight forest fires. They parachute from airplanes to remote areas. Fire marshals and fire inspectors work to prevent fires. They conduct building inspections. They make sure that laws about fire safety are followed. Fire fighters live in fire stations most of the time. Most fire stations have living rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms. When the alarm sounds, fire fighters must respond rapidly. Fire fighting is dangerous work, because floors can cave in and walls can topple, Flames and smoke can kill and burn.  Fire fighters may come in contact with poisonous gases or other hazardous materials. In order to protect themselves, fire fighters wear protective gear which can be heavy and hot.