It awesome to see our group starting to grow! Spread the word!

Welcome Chief Esbensen! We are so blessed to have you here!

Fire investigation is one of the most common landing spots for firefighters whose careers on the line are winding down — whether that's from age, injury, or just wanting a different chapter without leaving the fire service. You keep the credibility that comes from years on an engine, and you apply it to a job that's mentally demanding instead of physically demanding. It's not a consolation prize. Departments want investigators who've actually fought fire, because you can't fake knowing how a room really burns. If your knees or your back end your interior days before you're ready to hang it up completely, is investigation a path you'd consider?

ire inspectors walk buildings before there's a problem — checking sprinkler systems, exits, fire alarms, occupancy loads — and enforce the code that keeps those buildings from becoming the next call you'd otherwise be riding to. The role is built on Inspector I and II certification (historically NFPA 1031, now folded into the newer NFPA 1030 standard), and it's a legitimate specialization inside most fire departments, not a demotion or a desk-job downgrade. The schedule is different too — regular hours, no 2 a.m. structure fires, and a completely different kind of stress. For a lot of people, that trade is worth it. Would prevention work appeal to you, or do you need the fireground to feel like you're actually doing the job?

I know it is a little rough but I hope this has some helpful advise and guidance for everyone. The bottom line is give me direction on where you want this group to go. Have a great week everyone!