Rob?
Try it. You will know if it is for you. There is always something else if it turns out not to be suitable.
A lot depends on the locale, and the spirit of the times. In Chicago, during the riots following the assassination of Martin Luther King, firemen were shot at while trying to put out conflagrations. I believe much the same happened in L.A. during the Watts riots, and the Rodney King episode. But that was social upheaval in an already-stressed community. In a less congested and more economically balanced environment, the problem is non-existent.
From what I've learned from fire-fighters, accidents can happen. The training is superb, and constantly renewed to do everything to ensure education and safety are paramount. Self-awareness may be the most important factor in safety--and luck, of course.
Two things: First, I've noticed that firemen and police officers tend to socialize with others in their respective jobs. It may be that other folks just don't understand what goes on in a typical day, or organization. It may be the inevitable result of fluctuating work shifts unique to firefighters. This is neither good nor bad, but be aware you may be changing some of your personal society as time goes by.
Second, fire-fighters are the heroes of today's society. They have always been appreciated, but since 9/11, they have been lionized. This will probably settle down a bit, eventually. They are remarkable people in a remarkable profession. But be aware, there exists the potential for any given fire department to be very politicized.
Whatever you do, I hope you do well.
That don't sound to damn fun to me! Of course burning to death is not high on my list either...but I do think that good training and being alert would sure help.
