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We’re all familiar with the fire fighters and fire officers that make up the bulk of the front line fire personnel who turn up to emergencies and fight fires. However, there are a number of other positions in the fire service that we possibly don’t get to see as much of. Yet they’re still an integral part of the team, and without these people, our fire services would not be what they are. I’m referring of course to the fire instructors, fire investigators and fire inspectors. These are the behind the scenes roles that play a vital part in the whole team effort that is an effective fire unit. Fire instructors are the teachers, the mentors and the motivators. Fire investigators are involved in forensics and investigative work. They’re the ones who have to figure out what caused a fire, where it started, dust for fingerprints, collect and photograph evidence, interview witnesses, write reports, attend court and so on. The role of the fire inspector is equally as critical because these are the people who are responsible for ensuring that buildings are up to fire code standard, identifying possible fire hazards and issuing warnings in the case of non-compliance. The inspector makes a note of any unsafe conditions and work practices spotted that could cause or contribute to fire hazards. Potential fire hazards can include anything from accumulation of flammable material to faulty wiring, blocked fire exits and inadequate fire escape routes. It is also the responsibility of the fire inspector to provide advice and recommendations to property owners on how they can make their property fire code compliant. Being fire code compliant includes having an adequate fire protection system installed as well as fire control equipment i.e. fire extinguishers, available on the premises. This equipment needs to be correctly maintained and in good working order. Fire inspectors may test equipment and fire protection systems to make sure they function correctly should they need to be used in the event of a fire. Once the inspection has been completed, the inspector will prepare a report that lists any repairs and replacements that are required. Fire inspectors also inspect properties that deal with hazardous materials to ensure the handling, storage and use of these materials is being done in accordance with regulations, codes and laws. Some of the other vitally important duties of fire inspectors include running practice fire drills, evaluating evacuation procedures, assisting fire investigators work out the causes of fires, writing reports, investigating and taking steps to rectify identified faulty work practices that could lead to a fire hazard as well as replacing faulty fire detection equipment. Fire inspectors may also be required to install sprinkler and fire alarm systems. Of course it goes without saying that staying up to date on current fire safety codes and fire fighting measures are also part of the fire inspector’s responsibilities. They may be called upon to explain fire codes and present fire prevention information to building engineers, designers and construction site workers. Some fire inspectors also do double duty as active fire fighters. Becoming A Florida Fire Inspector If all this sounds like the path you would like your career in the fire services to take, there are a number of ways to undertake the training and fire inspector certification. You can enroll in an institute or college that offers this course or you can check out your online options. In Florida, Fire Inspector classes online are available through authorized online learning centers and training academies like Ricky Rescue Fire Academy. All courses offered are Florida State Fire College approved and are open enrollment, self paced modules. Upon completion of the course work, candidates are qualified to take the relevant Florida Fire Marshals Office / Fire Standards Bureau test. About the author: Vincent Feldman is a freelance journalist living in Costa Rica. He is part of our authors community since August 03, 2012
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