Austin Fire Department Training Program Overview

• Liz Donaldson is a captain with the Austin Fire Department.
• She oversees the fire cadet training program, which prepares new firefighters.
• To become an Austin firefighter, applicants undergo a long testing process with physical and written tests, followed by a six-month training program.
• Firefighters work 24 hours on and 48 hours off, doing everything at the fire station, including sleeping, eating, and studying.
• During their shift, firefighters respond to emergencies by helping those in need and collaborating as a team.
• Firefighters need to be physically fit and mentally sharp to perform their duties effectively.
• The department has various teams, including the Red Team with robots and drones, which provide aerial views during emergencies.
• Firefighters must wear protective gear during training and in dangerous environments to prepare for real-life situations.
• They carry heavy equipment, such as hoses, up stairs to build endurance and strength.
• The Red Team's drones offer a broader perspective of the scene during emergencies like swift water rescues or wildfires.

Learn about the Austin Fire Department's training program, the testing process for applicants, the responsibilities of firefighters, and the use of technology such as robots and drones. Understand the physical and mental demands of the job, including the need for endurance and strength.