An inside look at the life of a part-time firefighter
By Emma, Johanne, Kevin, and Laurids
SIP Class
A Day at the Fire Station
Recently, we had the opportunity to visit Midtjysk Brand & Redning, the fire station in Silkeborg. Our trip was guided by Jack, a former SIP student who now balances life as both a business professional and a part-time firefighter. Thanks to Jack’s connections, we were introduced to Andreas Jørgensen, one of the station’s senior incident commanders, who kindly gave us a tour and answered our many questions.
Meet Andreas Jørgensen
Andreas’ journey into firefighting wasn’t straightforward. Initially, he aspired to become a sergeant in the army after completing his mandatory military service. However, the path to becoming a sergeant required a bachelor’s degree, so he enrolled at university. During his studies, he got an insight into firefighting, which sparked his interest in the profession. He was then offered a position at the station in Silkeborg —and he has been there ever since.
Life as a Firefighter: The Highs and Lows
When we asked Andreas about his experiences, we wanted to understand the daily reality of being a firefighter. He shared that the best part of his job is being able to help people in critical situations and the satisfaction of saving lives. However, firefighting also comes with its emotional burdens. He recalled his first week on the job as a Lieutenant one of the most challenging periods of his career:
- Day 1: A child died in a car accident.
- Day 2: He responded to a suicide.
- Day 3: A major fire broke out.
- Day 4 & 5: They were called to a drowning incident involving children.
Despite these hardships, Andreas remains committed to the profession, emphasizing the importance of mental resilience and strong teamwork.
What It Takes to Be a Part-Time Firefighter
Part-time firefighters (PTFs) play a crucial role in Denmark’s emergency response system. To qualify, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Live near a fire station (as rapid response time is essential).
- Complete a firefighter training course.
- Have a clean criminal record.
A part-time firefighter can be on call 24/7, ready to respond at a moment’s notice. Balancing this role with a full-time job or family responsibilities can be demanding, requiring a strong support system from friends and loved ones. However, the experience offers immense personal growth, camaraderie, and a deep sense of purpose.
In Denmark, part-time firefighters receive a base salary of 800 DKK per month, with an additional 200 DKK per hour during an emergency call-out.
Stepping Into a Firefighter’s Gear
During our visit, Jack and Andreas gave us a chance to experience what it’s like to wear a firefighter’s uniform. The moment we put it on, we were surprised by how heavy it was—far heavier than we had expected. Firefighters are required to suit up in just 30 seconds, a challenge we quickly realized was no easy feat. While most of us struggled, Laurids and Kevin came the closest to completing it within the time limit.
In addition to their gear, firefighters carry a variety of heavy tools, each designed for different rescue operations. From water-powered cutters that can slice through metal to hydraulic spreaders capable of forcing open locked doors, every piece of equipment is essential in saving lives.
Essential Skills for Firefighters
When asked about the skills for firefighting, Andreas made it clear; Firefighting isn’t just about physical strength—it requires a unique set of skills, including:
Teamwork and adaptability: No two emergencies are the same, and firefighters must work seamlessly with their team to handle unexpected challenges.
Composure under pressure: Emergencies can be chaotic, and firefighters must remain calm to make quick, life-saving decisions.
Empathy and communication: Comforting victims and ensuring public safety is a critical part of the job.
Firefighter Fun Facts
🚒 A part time firefighter has 300 seconds to respond when an emergency is called in.
🔥 Becoming a firefighter in Denmark requires 255 hours of training, with an additional 24 hours of yearly maintenance training.
👨🚒 A firefighter’s suit can withstand temperatures of up to 1000°C.
💨 An air tank used in fire rescues lasts for approximately 30 minutes.
🔧 A fire truck carries over 100 different tools for various emergency scenarios.
Final Thoughts
Our visit to Midtjysk Brand & Redning gave us a new perspective on the life of a firefighter. From the adrenaline-filled emergencies to the emotional toll of the job, it is a profession that demands both courage and resilience. Whether full-time or part-time, firefighters are everyday heroes who dedicate their lives to protecting others—something we now have a much deeper appreciation for.
A big thank you to Jack and especially Andreas for sharing their experiences and giving us a firsthand look into this vital profession! 🚒🔥 We will definitely be back in the future!