Culture shock: Cultural factors that kill firefighters on the ground

Abstract

Firefighting is an intrinsically dangerous job that always has a risk of death (Kahn et al., 2015). In the United States, 786 firefighters died during field work over the last 10 years (USFA, 2018). Despite many advances in technology, firefighters' safety has not improved significantly. Therefore, this study began to find the cause. Through literature review, I found three cultural issues that impact firefighters' safety: 1) culture of being a hero, 2) aggressive firefighting activities, and 3) the resistance to change.

First, heroism means altruistic activities that take risks to save lives and properties of citizens (Rothmeier, 2017). Firefighters value courage and self-sacrifice, and have strong pride (Cox, 2012). Second, aggressive and improper firefighting activities mean responding to disasters in an aggressive and bold way. Thus, conducting aggressive tactics can put firefighters in unnecessary danger. This research shows three cases of firefighters killed by aggressive strategies and activities. Third, one of the cultural characteristics of fire departments is the resistance to change (USFA, 2015). Firefighters are so proud of their traditions and values, so they tend to be reluctant to change those values (Smeby, 2013). In addition, an informal hierarchy has been formed in the fire department because of the way older firefighters transfer skills to younger firefighters (Baigent, 2001). It acts as a barrier to change in the fire department.

The aim of this research is to explore how cultural issues jeopardize firefighters' lives on the ground. Qualitative approach was adopted for this research. Specifically, a web-based questionnaire survey that consisted of open-ended questions was used to collect data. Emails with the survey link were sent to all FEMP students and some instructors of OSU Fire Service Training. Data was finally collected from ten firefighters and the qualitative content analysis methodology was utilized to analyze the data.

Through analysis of data, I found that cultural issues impact firefighting operations and firefighters' safety. Based on the analysis, this research provides some suggestions on fire service administration: 1) establishing effective leadership, 2) recognizing and allowing improvisation, and 3) communicating with members before conducting change. In addition, based on the limitations of this study, future research is suggested to further develop this study.