Be a Hero: The Role and Training of Firefighters Without Medical Certification

Firefighters without medical certifications are predominately outside of the St. Louis County area.  They are part of a unique team that saves lives and protects property by responding to emergencies such as fires, rescues, and hazardous material incidents.  They train to use specialized equipment such as the "Jaws of Life" that cut persons trapped in vehicles and the Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) that allows them to go into burning buildings to save victims.   Firefighters also perform various support tasks, from general equipment maintenance to teaching fire prevention.