r/Firefighting • u/Obviouslythrowaway_- • 3d ago

General Discussion Fire vs Fire/EMS Departments

What has your experience been in either department? All I keep hearing is guys complain about how EMS departments are dreadful and miserable but get paid more. When, in my area I hear that the big City (fire only) gets paid the most and has the best benefits. Have I been lied to this whole time? Are there ANY benefits to EMS departments?

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u/FinchFire1209 2d ago

After 8 years working in a busy fire and EMS east coast city, I understand why firefighters with time on don’t like EMS. I never disliked EMS and have always felt like my skills were on point, but about 5 years in I started burning out working for busy Engine companies and ambulances. 80% of what we’d do was running medical calls. Over half of those were not even emergencies.

I’d say the benefits are the experience keeps your EMS skills sharp and the better pay. When you’ve had enough there are typically other paths within the department you can take through promotion or different divisions if you’re willing to put in the work.