What do firefighters do when not responding to a call?

Full-time firefighter/paramedics are responsible for many duties in addition to responding to calls, some of their responsibilities include:

  • Emergency vehicles and equipment are inspected and maintained daily to ensure they are ready at all times
  • Fire inspections and pre-fire planning are conducted to prevent or prepare for fire responses
  • Firefighters also conduct frequent public education sessions and station tours
  • Regularly scheduled classes, daily training, and multi-agency drills are conducted to maintain and enhance the firefighting and emergency medical skills of personnel 
  • Station cleaning and maintenance of the building and grounds is also performed by firefighters


Full-time firefighter/paramedics live and work at the fire station for 24-hour periods. 


During designated hours once all regularly assigned duties are complete, they are permitted to 

  • Cook
  • Exercise
  • Read
  • Relax


 They must, however, be prepared respond to an emergency call at any time.

Show All Answers

1. How many full-time firefighter / paramedics are there and how many paid on call firefighters are there?
2. Many other communities, sizable to Red Wing, have a volunteer Fire Department. Why does Red Wing have a full-time one?
3. What is the difference between a firefighter and a paramedic?
4. What does it take to be a Red Wing fire fighter / paramedic?
5. How many people are on each shift and why are there that many?
6. How many calls does Red Wing respond to annually?
7. What do firefighters do when not responding to a call?
8. Why do the ambulance and fire truck respond to the same call?
9. Why does the ambulance stay on the scene of an accident or incident?
10. What does the Red Wing Fire Department do for fundraising?
11. Can I burn in Red Wing?