FAQ

FAQs

Do Firefighters have to do any extra training?

As the world changes, firefighters have to change and train along with it. The members of the MFD continually train to remain current with medical standards, fire suppression tactics, Hazardous Materials, Rope Rescue, Confined Space, and even new vehicle technologies (we respond to numerous car accidents). If you look at it this way, the Muskogee Fire Department must train and be prepared for any emergency that is called in.

MFD has its own training Officer, we instruct classes for our personnel such as officer and driver training, etc.

What other responsibilities do firefighters have other than fight fires?
A short answer would be the MFD handles all the emergencies. So here’s the complete answer. Of the more than 2,600 calls per year the MFD receives, about 60 percent are medical emergencies. The rest are varied in nature. We respond to house fires, car fires, garage fires, natural gas leaks, water leaks, carbon monoxide alarms, residential and business fire alarms, car accidents, rollovers, chemical leaks, confined space, boating accidents, industrial accidents, building collapses, natural disasters, explosions and much more. Any emergency that is called in we respond too. We are in the business of handling those one in a million emergencies.
How much does a firefighter's gear weigh?

Different manufactures make their gear out of slightly different materials that can determine the weight. However, the gear the MFD uses weigh approximately 50 pounds. The MFD gear consists of a fiberglass helmet, nomex hood, bunker coat & pants, gloves, ax and boots that collectively weigh roughly 25 pounds. Firefighters also wear a SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus) with a full 30-minute bottle, adding another 25 pounds. However, keep in mind that when our gear gets wet, it absorbs water and adds another 10 or so pounds of weight (e.g. My weight =185 lbs. + gear =210 lbs. + mask = 235 lbs.).

Different manufactures make their gear out of slightly different materials that can determine the weight. However, the gear the MFD uses weigh approximately 50 pounds. The MFD gear consists of a fiberglass helmet, nomex hood, bunker coat & pants, gloves, ax and boots that collectively weigh roughly 25 pounds. Firefighters also wear a SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus) with a full 30-minute bottle, adding another 25 pounds. However, keep in mind that when our gear gets wet, it absorbs water and adds another 10 or so pounds of weight (e.g. My weight =185 lbs. + gear =210 lbs. + mask = 235 lbs.).

What is the difference between a fire engine and a fire truck?
There is a lot of slang and specific jargon in the fire service. A fire engine (Engine or Pumper) is equipped with a 750 to 1000 gallon water tank, a pump and fire hose. There are 7 Engine Companies in Muskogee that aid us in getting to any emergency in approximately 3 to 4 minutes. A Fire Truck (Truck, Aerial or Ladder) doesn’t carry water or a hose. Trucks carry a steel ladder that stretches to 75 to 110 feet, with a nozzle at the tip to spray water onto a fire from above and have to be connected to an Engine. Trucks additionally have several ladders stored in back ranging from 8 to 35 feet. The remaining space in Trucks are used for storage and contains items such as lights, generators, saws, axes, rams, There are 2 Ladder Truck Companies in the City of Muskogee.
Why do firefighters break all the windows during a fire?

Firstly, breaking out the windows during a fire is something you should NOT do! It can make the fire much worse and decrease the chances of survival for trapped occupants.

When the MFD break out windows during a fire, there is a science to it that we are trained in. Windows are broken in coordination with firefighters on the inside so when they place water on the fire, open windows allow the steam to escape. Without the windows being broken, the steam would cook firefighters in their suits. The openings also help to release smoke and increase visibility inside a building.

What qualifications are required to be an "Entry-Level" firefighter?

Applicants must be between 21 and 45 years of age, must possess a valid driver’s license, and must possess a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent. 

Successfully complete a testing process consisting of a written examination, a physical agility test, a background investigation, a personal interview, and extensive physical examination.

What type of training does it take to become a firefighter?
The Muskogee Fire Department has its own training division and will train new entry-level firefighters to Firefighter I along with many other skills required to perform their job at the highest level. 
What type of schedule do firefighters work?
 The Muskogee Fire Department works a 24-hour shift on and have 48 hours off. Muskogee firefighters  work an average of 56 hours a week.
Who do I contact if I have additional questions?

Please e-mail the MFD Offices at Fire@muskogeeonline.org. The Office Manager will funnel your question to the appropriate person and send you a response back. Or call the Muskogee Fire Department at 918-684-6252.

How do I get a free smoke detector installed in my home?
If you live in a single-family home or duplex, and need a smoke detector please call the Muskogee Fire Department and ask for one of the Fire Marshals. We will arrange for a MFD Fire Company to deliver and install a detector.