Firefighting is physically demanding. Tools and equipment carried and used on the fireground can weigh between 80 and 100 pounds. Breaking doors, cutting locks, and climbing many flights of stairs and ladders are all common tasks performed by firefighters. These tasks require safe, proficient use of hand and power tools. Hoselines are used to spray water for extinguishment and may be used individually, without assistance, or as part of a team.
Firefighters use ladders and work at heights to rescue victims and fight fires.
They must raise, lower and extend these ladders to reach elevated areas of the fireground. These duties are normally carried out as needed at a medical emergency, but could be used on a fire scene, accident scene, or even on a co-worker. Firefighters must possess the ability to assess a victim's general condition by checking for a pulse, breathing, bleeding, consciousness, etc.