First Responder Terminology- Fire Personnel

6/26/2019 (Permalink)

When you call 911 to alert them of a fire, there are many people you may come into contact with throughout the situation. The following list explains some of those people and their duties. The people you work with during and after a fire can be overwhelming to remember everyone's name and positions, so we hope this is helpful!

Company – Two or more firefighters organized as a team, led by a fire officer, and equipped to perform certain operational functions. Compare with platoon and unit.

Company officer – A fire officer, typically a lieutenant or captain, who leads a team of two or more firefighters in a company.

Dispatch – Refers to a person or place designated for handling a call for help by alerting the specific resources necessary.

Engineer – A firefighter responsible for driving the engine to the scene of the call and operation of the pumps on an engine, to provide enough water to the firefighters on the hose. The term may be either a position title or a rank; usage varies among departments (also a Chauffer).

Engine Company – A group of firefighters assigned to an apparatus with a water pump and equipped with a firehose and other tools related to fire extinguishment.

Fire inspector – A person responsible for issuing permits and enforcing the fire code, including any necessary premises inspection.

Fire marshal – Administrative investigative office for fire prevention and arson investigation. Has legal authority to enforce state and local fire laws.