Roger Gnann

In my days, I have hung around many retired firefighters in my department. They took a liking to me because I am interested in the history. That history was their lives. So many firefighters forget about the ones who came before us because they are so wrapped up in themselves.

Since I don’t have a juicy “moment of Zen” for you, I will instead give you some things I have learned along the way from some great guys. I don’t take credit for any of these. Some are serious and others humorous!

You are replaceable… For those guys who think that they walk on water, to the beancounters we are all just a single notch in a magic number that creates budgets. This is more for the paid guys but I think it keeps us grounded. It is unfortunate, but most administrators and politicians don’t give a shit about you or your family. Kinda hard to swallow isn’t it!

Never underestimate fire… Whether you have been taught to do it one way or another, always have a backup plan. Fire is unpredictable!

Always prepare for the worst… No matter what incident, what circumstances, or whatever else if you prepare for the worst and it doesn’t come, the outcome will be easier to handle.

Don’t kiss ass… This is plain and simple. And yes, we all know it is going on when it happens. Don’t think for a minute that we think you are being sincere!

Don’t be so hard on yourself… Don’t worry about making the wrong decision. If you made a decision at all you are doing better than some. Mistakes lead to experience too. Ignorance is making the same mistake twice.

A complement can go a long way… How many times have you been told you did a good job? The same goes for others. We hand out criticism too often and complements not often enough. Whenever you have the chance you should give your peers at least a pat on the back.

You have to give respect to get respect… If you don’t understand it you probably are not respected!

Volunteer vs. Career… It doesn’t matter. Seriously guys, it is about being professional and getting the “job” done!

Never say “never”… I learned this early on. In firefighting, no matter what you are talking about there is never a “never”. It will happen!

Enjoy your job… If you come to a moment where your job seems like a chore reevaluate what you are doing, set goals, and move forward.

Family first, job second… Your family comes before your job…always!

The people we work for (in most cases our citizens) do not and probably will not ever fully understand what we do, why we do it, or many other aspects of our jobs.