cover letter sample for firefighter job

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3 Firefighter Cover Letter Examples to Work in 2024 

• Firefighter Cover Letter
• Firefighter No Experience Cover Letter
• Entry-level Firefighter Cover Letter
• Write Your Firefighter Cover Letter

Whether it’s putting out fires or responding to medical emergencies, you’re there to help others in need. You ensure quick response times, proper use of hoses and aerial ladders, and compliance with medical standards to get the best results on the job.

But are you capable of writing a great cover letter to complement your firefighter resume and help you get a quick response from hiring managers?

When civilian safety is in your hands, every fire station’s hiring staff will want to ensure they bring responsible pros on board. Our firefighter cover letter examples and free AI cover letter generator will help you portray your abilities optimally during the hiring process.

Complement your resume and launch your career with our cover letter generator.

Firefighter Cover Letter Example

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Copy this text for your firefighter cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85001 (123) 456-7890

October 01, 2023

Olivia Lee Rural Metro Fire Department 123 Fictional Lane Phoenix, AZ 85001

Dear Ms. Lee,

With a deep-rooted passion for safeguarding communities and my professional background in firefighting skills, I am eager to contribute and bring value to the Rural Metro Fire Department team as a firefighter. I’ve sharpened my expertise over the past six adrenaline-fueled years, racing against time to protect Phoenix communities and beyond.

As a firefighter and certified fire investigator with the Phoenix Fire Department, I was part of a dynamic team where I improved our fire suppression success rate by 38%, using state of-the-art equipment and techniques. My profound understanding of fire behavior and considerable ability in handling fire apparatus enabled me to excel in rapidly evolving, high-pressure situations.

Next, my aptitude in search and rescue operations was put into action during a significant incident in 2018. When a severe storm stranded hikers in the Superstition Mountains, I led a team of four firefighters to rescue seven hikers within six hours. Comprehensively using mapping software and communication systems, I ensured the accurate location and safe retrieval of all stranded people.

My skills are complemented by extensive experience in emergency medical response, honed during my time with American Medical Response in Phoenix. I spearheaded numerous life-saving operations, with a 46% decrease in medical emergencies resulting in critical conditions over two years. Utilizing automatic electronic defibrillators and other life-saving tools, I helped establish more efficient and high-quality emergency medical responses.

Transcending individual skill sets, I’ve always been a proponent of fostering strong teamwork in intense situations—a value I see mirrored deeply at the Rural Metro Fire Department. With my experience in the field and commitment to serving the community, I believe I can contribute significantly to your team as a firefighter. Thank you for your consideration.

Luca Moretti

Enclosures: Resume Application 2 letters of recommendation Fire Investigator Certification

Why this cover letter works

• But don’t just mention the skills; demonstrate the tangible impact they fostered in past roles. A mention of relevant certification (cue fire investigator certification) and heroic rescues under your guidance will make your firefighter cover letter memorable.

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Firefighter No Experience Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your firefighter no experience cover letter.

123 Fictional Avenue Atlanta, GA 30301 (123) 456-7890

James Smith Atlanta Fire Rescue Department 123 Fictional Lane Atlanta, GA 30301

Dear Mr. Smith,

The pulse-pounding pace of addressing fires, the unity among my co-cadets, the sounds of sirens, and the gratitude from those I’ve helped as an aspiring firefighter in training have fueled my resolve. I yearn to turn this passion into a full-time commitment with the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department as a firefighter cadet.

I mastered emergency equipment operation at Gwinnett County Fire Training Academy. My dexterity in operating these key tools increased the academy’s response performance metrics by approximately 19% in simulated emergencies.

Becoming well-versed in fire behavior and dynamics was critical during my internship at SSP Atlanta. I participated in formulating suppression strategies, which effectively reduced property loss by approximately 23% during our fire drill processes.

Maintenance of personal protective gear was a responsibility I took on at DeKalb County Fire Station 10, where firefighter safety was a top priority. My systematic maintenance routines ensured gear reliability, supporting firefighters in their tasks and resulting in a 14% reduction in equipment failures throughout my time there.

I look forward to discussing how my background in fire dynamics and equipment operation can contribute to Atlanta Fire Rescue Department’s operational excellence and safety efforts. Thank you.

Oliver Svensson

• But don’t stop at enthusiasm. Better yet, showcase your hands-on experience with relevant tools and skills, including emergency equipment operation, fore behavior and dynamics, and PPE maintenance, during training and volunteer internship programs.

Entry-level Firefighter Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your entry-level firefighter cover letter.

123 Fictional Avenue Oakland, CA 94601 (123) 456-7890

Noah Brown Alameda County Fire Department 123 Fictional Lane Oakland, CA 94601

Dear Mr. Brown,

I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to merge my passion for community service with my expertise in firefighting as your next firefighter trainee. The 1991 Oakland Hills firestorm, which displaced countless families, including mine, ingrained in me an early commitment to preventing such disasters. With rigorous training in ventilation tactics, wildland firefighting, and more, I am eager to become a firefighter force to be reckoned with at the prestigious Alameda County Fire Department.

While at the Oakland Community College, I championed a new approach to ventilation tactics, which reduced structural damage during training exercises by 14%. These tactics streamlined operations and minimized unnecessary property damages, strengthening public confidence within the community.

My academic training in wildland firefighting tactics was quickly put to the test during the notorious 2019 wildfire season. Working with CAL FIRE, I was actively involved in containing the Kincade Fire, which threatened parts of Northern California. My steadfast involvement in the incident response significantly contributed to a 9% quicker containment rate, safeguarding the local ecosystem and properties from further destruction.

While pursuing my education, I honed the essential skills of rope and knot techniques, which proved invaluable during the North Net Training. I adeptly executed various high-angle rescue operations and ensured the safety of 52 personnel during the exercises, demonstrating the effectiveness and precision of my abilities even under pressure.

I am ready to apply my academic competencies and skills at the Alameda County Fire Department, wholeheartedly supporting and protecting Oakland’s diverse community. Embracing continuous learning and skill development as the cornerstone to success in this crucial role, my heart races at the starting line of this thrilling adventure. I look forward to discussing my candidacy further. Thank you.

Jayden Patel

• Don’t forget to detail any fire-related course or training that prepared you for this role. More importantly, solidify your competence by spotlighting real-life instances where you demonstrated courage, teamwork, and resilience. That can be during volunteer programs or even a sports event.

Related cover letter examples

• Firefighter resume
• Police officer
• Social work
• Entry level
• Nursing student

How to Format a Firefighter Cover Letter

Just like every emergency response is different, and you must tailor your approach to each situation’s needs, you’ll also want to tailor your firefighter cover letter to each fire station’s culture and positional requirements. 

The job description will help you list the right job skills for each organization. For instance, a fire station in a big city may need you to be capable of operating aerial apparatus trucks and know how to fight fires in multi-story buildings.

Firefighter cover letter introduction

You know that every fire station operates at a fast pace with the many tasks you must complete daily, from equipment maintenance to emergency medical response. Therefore, it’ll be important for you to grab attention right away in your cover letter.

To stand out immediately, you’ll want to greet a specific fire station hiring manager or decision-maker by name if you can find a contact person in the job description. It’ll help create a connection right away like you would when starting to work with new crew members.

You should also connect the top skills the station is seeking and its mission. For instance, you could reference how you want to use your fire containment knowledge to protect civilians, property, and wildlife from the effects of fires.

The example below could use a bit of work since it doesn’t get into enough detail about the applicant’s skills or the fire station’s mission.

Need more details here!

Dear Mr. London,

After completing my fire science associate’s degree, I’m seeking an opportunity to join your fire station’s emergency response team. I believe my skills will be a great fit for your needs.

An opener like the one below is a better option that connects to the applicant’s passion for containing fires due to personal work experience and how their ventilation tactics and wildland firefighting skills fit the department’s needs.

An opener connecting relevant firefighting skills!

Firefighter cover letter body.

When you get into the body of your cover letter, you’ll want to provide more details about your firefighting qualifications and abilities.

A great way to do that will be using metrics-based examples of results you’ve achieved. For instance, you could detail response times and fire containment rates.

If you don’t have much firefighting experience, you could also explain how your fire science associate’s degree or EMT program has equipped you for the role. For example, you could talk about your proficiencies in bandaging wounds or emergency vehicle operations protocols that you learned during your studies.

A great body paragraph illustrating firefighting success!

Firefighter cover letter closing.

As you close out your firefighter cover letter, you’ll want to relate back to the key skills you discussed, like operating aerial ladders and emergency evacuation protocols, and your passion for the fire department’s mission.

Then, end with a brief thank you and light call to action, such as “I look forward to discussing this firefighter role with you further” to show your interest in the position.

The example below feels too generic since it doesn’t relate to specific details about the fire department’s needs.

A bit too generic!

Thank you for considering me for your department’s firefighter opening. I believe my skills will make me a great addition to your team, and I look forward to discussing this role with you further.

Natasha Coleson

Instead, aim for a closer like the one below that quickly relates to how the applicant’s fire dynamics and equipment operation skills relate to the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department’s safety efforts.

An impactful closer with key firefighting skills!

I look forward to discussing how my background in fire dynamics and equipment operation can contribute to the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department’s operational excellence and safety efforts. Thank you.

When you respond to emergencies, you likely adjust your tone to the needs of everyone you work with to provide effective instructions. Take the same approach to your cover letter by analyzing the job description and trying to match the fire department’s tone to show how you’ll fit in with their culture.

You should keep your firefighter cover letter on a single page. Since fire stations are fast-paced, a cover letter that’s too long may lose a hiring manager’s attention during quick reviews. So keep it to a concise overview of essential skills like CPR and using power tools.

The best job skills to reference will depend on the specific position and what the fire station emphasizes in the job description . For instance, if you’ll be working in a wildlife zone, your ability to use wildland fire trucks and perform brush fire control may be crucial to the position’s needs and should be emphasized in your cover letter.

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Firefighter Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

• Cover Letter Examples
• Cover Letter Text Examples

How To Write a Firefighter Cover Letter

A great firefighter cover letter can help strengthen your application during your job search. As you build your cover letter, showcase your most compelling career achievements and emphasize unique aspects of who you are as a first responder. Demonstrate your dedication to communities and passion for saving lives. This guide provides examples and expert tips to translate your firefighter experience into a powerful marketing document.

Firefighter Cover Letter Templates and Examples

• Entry-Level
• Senior-Level

Firefighter Text-Only Cover Letter Templates and Examples

Cameron Malfara Firefighter | cameronmalfarayouremail.com | (123) 456-7890 | 123 Bridge St., Boston, MA 12345

January 1, 2024

Tyrone Jackson Senior Hiring Manager Belmont Fire Department (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Jackson,

As a firefighter with over five years of experience as a first responder, I’ve developed expertise in determining appropriate fire suppression techniques during emergency situations. At the Lexington Fire Department, I led teams of over 15 firefighters to safely rescue civilians and provide emergency medical treatment during large house fires and hazardous materials incidents. My leadership capabilities make me an ideal candidate for the firefighter position with your organization.

Belmont Fire Department’s reputation as a community-focused organization with an inclusive culture draws me to apply for this position. Your dedication to providing public safety programs to the community strongly aligns with my core values. I can provide valuable contributions in the firefighter position based on the following achievements from my career:

• Led response to emergency fires, administered emergency medical treatment to civilians, and ensured compliance with safety protocols during rescue operations
• Coordinated with emergency medical technicians (EMTs), firefighters, law enforcement, and first responders to rescue civilians and administer life-saving medical treatment for smoke inhalation and burns
• Conducted safety and maintenance inspections of equipment and vehicles

I’d like to set up an interview to provide more insights regarding how my unique experience can benefit your organization during emergency response incidents. You can contact me via phone or email at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards,

Cameron Malfara

Meera Patel Firefighter | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | 123 Carpenter St., Philadelphia, PA 12345

Hector Santos Senior Hiring Manager Philadelphia Fire Department (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Santos,

As a firefighter with over eight years of professional experience, I’ve led numerous teams of first responders during a variety of emergency incidents. While serving as a firefighter for the Chester Fire Department, I coordinated response efforts for natural disasters, house fires, and hazardous materials incidents. My experience as a first responder would be a valuable asset to your organization.

The Philadelphia Fire Department has a prestigious reputation for its high response times to emergency situations, which draws me to apply for this position. I can help to further improve emergency response efforts for your organization based on my past achievements:

• Responded to emergency fire and hazardous materials incidents and utilized fog, direct attack, and two-line attack techniques to suppress fires based on weather and wind conditions
• Deliver comprehensive training to 25 firefighters on building safety protocols, firefighting techniques, and emergency response protocols
• Perform inspections, repairs, and maintenance on fire department equipment and vehicles, including ambulances, fire trucks, and ladder trucks

I hope to speak with you further regarding how my firefighter experience would be an asset to your team. Feel free to contact me via phone or email at your convenience. I appreciate your time and consideration.

Meera Patel

John Bergsen Firefighter | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | 123 Bedford Ave., New York, NY 12345

Caleb Morris Senior Hiring Manager Brooklyn Fire Department (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Morris,

As a firefighter with over 10 years of experience as a first responder, I’ve built, managed, and developed high-performance firehouses. During my time with the Queens Fire Department, I drove initiatives to enhance training, staffing, and communication protocols, which improved average response times by 10%. I can achieve similar success with your organization in the firefighter position.

The Brooklyn Fire Department has a reputation for excellence that strongly aligns with my professional background. As a firefighter, I am passionate about identifying new processes to improve firehouse operations and save lives. I can provide valuable contributions to your department based on the following achievements from my career:

• Improved firehouse operations, staffing levels, and communication protocols to increase response times to emergency fires and hazardous incidents by 10%
• Managed, recruited, and built teams of over 30 firefighters, delivered training on safety procedures, and provided coaching and mentorship to improve performance
• Identified appropriate fire suppression techniques and maintained compliance with safety protocols to ensure the safe retrieval of civilians and firefighting teams

I would like to schedule an interview with you to provide more insights into how my leadership experience can help your organization improve response times to emergency incidents. Feel free to contact me via phone or email at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.

John Bergsen

To write a great firefighter cover letter, the first step is to carefully analyze the job description. What are fire departments looking for in a candidate? How does your background as a first responder uniquely position you for this opportunity? Once you understand what to include on your firefighter cover letter, the writing process becomes much easier. Below, we’ll walk you through each section to help you build a professional document that truly stands out in today’s job market:

1. Contact information and salutation

List all essential contact information in the header of your firefighter cover letter, including your name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn URL. Be sure to address the hiring manager by name — Mr. or Ms. [Last Name]. If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, use a variation of “Dear Hiring Manager.” Avoid salutations such as “To Whom It May Concern,” as these types of greetings are less direct and personal.

2. Introduction

Open your firefighter cover letter with an eye-catching introduction. Emphasize your years of experience as a firefighter and the types of emergency incidents you responded to. Add one of your most notable achievements to draw the reader in and entice them to read further. For instance, you might highlight an example of you improving response times or other performance metrics related to efficiency.

Take a look at the example featured below. Notice how the candidate captures the most engaging aspects of their experience as a firefighter in a concise yet compelling manner. In addition to including an impressive number, they draw attention to their leadership capabilities, which is essential for any first responder.

3. Body paragraphs

In the body paragraphs of your firefighter cover letter, highlight your strongest qualifications and achievements as a first responder. Start by mentioning something specific about the fire department’s reputation or culture and why you’re the ideal fit for the role. Emphasize specific accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to enhance firehouse operations, lead personnel, and improve loss control. This sends a clear message that your unique background as a firefighter can add legitimate value to their team.

4. Firefighter skills and qualifications

Rather than including a list of skills on your firefighter cover letter, integrate key terms from the job posting into your paragraphs. This shows the hiring manager how you’ve effectively utilized these skill sets effectively during emergency situations. Below, you’ll find a list of potential skills to consider featuring on your firefighter cover letter:

5. Closing section

End your firefighter cover letter on a strong note with a call to action (CTA) inviting the hiring manager to schedule an interview. Reinforce how your experience as a first responder can help improve emergency response times and firehouse operations. Be sure to thank the hiring manager for their time in the last sentence of the paragraph.

Firefighter Cover Letter Tips

Now, we’ll provide additional insights to strengthen your content. The key to creating a compelling cover letter is to focus on telling your unique story in the form of career accomplishments. Think about what the firefighter job description is looking for and how your experience makes you the ideal fit for the position. Below, you’ll find three expert tips to help you craft your cover letter and secure your next job interview:

1. Highlight leadership experience during emergency response

Leadership is an essential skill for any first responder. Prospective employers want to see you lead effectively during emergency situations, so it’s important to feature specific examples of you managing team members and civilians during incident response. In the example below, the candidate highlights their experience training firefighters and managing a variety of emergencies effectively:

As a firefighter with over five years of experience as a first responder, I’ve developed expertise in determining appropriate fire suppression techniques during emergency situations. At the Weston Fire Department, I led teams of more than 15 firefighters to safely rescue civilians and provide emergency medical treatment during large house fires and hazardous materials incidents. My leadership capabilities make me an ideal candidate for the firefighter position with your organization.

2. Mention the organization’s core values and culture

A generic cover letter is never a good strategy for securing job interviews . If you’re crafting this type of document, hiring managers expect it to be personalized. Sending a cover letter not mentioning the organization’s reputation, core values, or culture shows you haven’t researched and may not have a genuine interest in the position. In the example below, the job seeker explains this firehouse’s reputation is precisely why they’re looking to join the organization:

3. Feature your knowledge of firefighting techniques and safety protocols

During an emergency, identifying the correct fire suppression techniques is essential for saving lives and preventing serious injuries during evacuations. Understanding how to navigate an unstable building and determining the correct course of action according to safety risks are essential for success as a first responder. In the example below, the candidate demonstrates their comprehensive knowledge of both firefighting techniques and safety protocols:

Firefighter Cover Letter FAQs

Why should i include a firefighter cover letter -.

Not every fire department will require a cover letter during the application process, but including one can increase your odds of landing the interview. The cover letter lets you talk about individual firehouses in a more direct way and express your genuine enthusiasm for the opportunity. Sometimes, just a small touch like this differentiates you from another candidate during the job hunt.

How long should my firefighter cover letter be? -

When building a cover letter, less is more. A concise, focused document keeping the reader’s eye on your most impressive qualifications and achievements as a firefighter will always be more effective. Bulky, long-winded paragraphs run the risk of overwhelming the reader with too much information and drawing attention away from your career accomplishments.

Should I use artificial intelligence to write my cover letter? -

Using an artificial intelligence (AI) tool such as ChatGPT to get your cover letter started is a viable option, but don’t let it do all of the writing for you. Although there have been countless advancements in AI and machine learning, these tools can never tell your story as a firefighter the way you can. Fire departments want to see your dedication and passion for saving lives, and this requires your own unique voice.

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Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

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Firefighter Cover Letter Examples And Tips For 2024

Learn how to craft a firefighter cover letter with practical tips and samples. Browse through our cover letter examples and templates.

Sanjoy Khan Choudhury

Read more posts by this author.

Picture a family in need during a crisis or the relief on someone's face when help arrives. That feeling of wanting to be the one making a difference – that's what drives a firefighter. And your strong cover letter is the key to putting you on the path to serve your community.

Let's get this done. In a few minutes, you'll have the tools to craft a firefighter cover letter that gets you noticed. Ready to get started?

What to Expect from This Blog:

• Sample cover letters you can customize for your firefighter job
• How to tailor your letter to the specific fire department
• The best format for a firefighter cover letter
• Do's and don'ts to avoid common mistakes
• Tips for writing a cover letter that grabs the attention of your potential employers

Sample Firefighter Cover Letters for Different Scenarios

Let's look at some examples of how to tailor your cover letter for different situations:

Firefighter Cover Letter Example with No Experience

Joseph Miller [email protected] (555) 123-4567

April 23, 2024

Captain Emily Harris Fire Recruitment Officer Springfield Fire Station 123 Main Street, Springfield, OR 97477

Dear Captain Harris,

I am writing to express my enthusiastic interest in the entry-level Firefighter position at the Springfield Fire Department. My recent EMT-Basic certification, unwavering dedication to community service, and strong work ethic make me a highly motivated candidate.

From a young age, I've been drawn to the vital role firefighters play in our community. My commitment to service led me to volunteer with the local Red Cross chapter, where I provided first-aid assistance at community events and supported disaster relief efforts. Inspired to take my dedication further, I recently completed a rigorous EMT-Basic certification program, excelling in both practical and knowledge-based assessments.

Beyond my formal training, I possess qualities essential for firefighting. As a former member of my high school's cross-country team, I developed the physical stamina and mental resilience necessary to thrive in demanding situations. My experience working as a construction labourer taught me the importance of teamwork, safety protocols, and maintaining composure under pressure.

I am eager to channel my skills and passion into protecting the Springfield community. I'm committed to the extensive training required and see myself as a long-term, dedicated member of the Springfield Fire Department team.

Key Achievements:

• Certified EMT-Basic with demonstrated proficiency in patient assessment and emergency care.
• Active volunteer with the Red Cross, showcasing a commitment to community well-being.
• Proven teamwork and adaptability through construction experience.
• Disciplined and physically fit athlete with a drive to succeed.

Thank you for considering my application. I would be honoured to discuss how I can contribute to the Springfield Fire Department. Please reach out to schedule an interview at your earliest convenience.

[Joseph's Signature] Joseph Miller

Firefighter Cover Letter Example with Experience

James Williams [email protected] (555) 999-1212

I am writing to express my keen interest in the Firefighter position at the Springfield Fire Department. With [number] years of dedicated service at the [Previous Fire Department], including [specialized certification, if applicable], I am eager to bring my expertise and leadership to your renowned team.

Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence. At my previous department, I played a crucial role in [highlight a specific achievement, example: developing new training protocols, successful rescue operation, etc.]. Furthermore, my [specialized certifications, if any] allow me to contribute immediately in [specific areas that match the job posting].

Beyond my technical skills, I'm passionate about mentorship and fostering a strong team dynamic. In my previous role, I was a lead trainer for new recruits, sharing my knowledge and instilling the values of professionalism and community service.

I am excited about the Springfield Fire Department's reputation for [mention something specific to the department - innovation, community outreach, etc.]. I'm confident that I can seamlessly integrate into your team and make a positive impact from day one.

• [Number] years of active firefighting experience with a proven track record of success.
• Specialized certifications in [list 1-2 key certifications relevant to the position].
• Demonstrated leadership through mentoring and training fellow firefighters.
• Played a crucial role in [briefly describe a significant achievement].

Thank you for considering my application. I would be honoured to discuss how my experience and skills can serve the Springfield Fire Department. Please reach out to schedule an interview at your earliest convenience.

[James's Signature] James Williams

Firefighter Cover Letter Example for Career Change

John Smith [email protected] (555) 567-8910

I am writing to express my strong interest in the entry-level Firefighter position at the Springfield Fire Department. My background in [previous field] and a lifelong passion for serving the community have inspired me to pursue this exciting career change.

Throughout my career in [previous field], I've demonstrated the leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability essential for firefighting success. I consistently managed high-pressure projects, ensuring both client satisfaction and on-time, on-budget delivery. Moreover, my experience leading a team of [number] honed my communication and collaboration abilities.

Seeking to give my skills and passion a more direct impact, I recently completed my EMT-Basic certification. This training solidified my commitment to a firefighting career and provided a strong foundation in emergency medical response.

I'm confident my work ethic, previous experience, and dedication make me a valuable asset to the Springfield Fire Department. I am eager to transition my skills into this fulfilling role, where I can directly protect and serve my community.

• Proven leadership and project management expertise within a fast-paced environment.
• Certified EMT-Basic, demonstrating a commitment to emergency preparedness.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills developed through team leadership.
• Dedicated and adaptable professional, ready to embrace the challenges of firefighting.

Thank you for considering my application. I would be honoured to discuss how my unique background can benefit the Springfield Fire Department. Please reach out to schedule an interview at your earliest convenience.

[John's Signature] John Smith

How to write a cover letter for a firefighter position: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Your cover letter isn't a love letter about how awesome you are (although you probably are!). Instead, the hiring managers at the fire department want to know one thing: How can you help them?

They need brave firefighters who are ready to run into danger, work well under pressure, and care about their community. Your job is to show them you have those qualities. Let's understand how we can craft a perfect firefighter cover letter:

Step 1: The Attention-Grabbing Intro Paragraph

This is your chance to stand out from a pile of tedious applications. Here's how to make it strong:

Sentence 1: Clearly state the exact job title you're applying for and your experience level (entry-level, experienced, etc.). Example: "I am applying for the entry-level Firefighter position at the [Department Name] Fire Department."

Sentence 2: Hit them with a short, powerful sentence that sums up your passion for firefighting. Example: "My passion for serving the community and my unwavering determination make me an ideal candidate for this role."

Step 2: Body Paragraphs (2-3): Prove You're Their Ideal Candidate

This is where you connect the dots between their job description and your skills.

Match Their Needs: Scan the job posting for keywords – do they need strong teamwork skills, EMT certification, or experience with specific equipment?

Tell Short Stories: Don't just list skills, show them! Brief examples from training, volunteer work, or even non-firefighting situations that show dedication will make you memorable.

Numbers are Your Friends: Instead of saying "completed rigorous training," say "completed 120+ hours of EMT training." Quantifying your outcomes is more powerful!

Step 3: Call to Action: Seal the Deal

Don't leave them wondering what to do next. Tell them you want the job!

Example: "I'm eager to discuss how my skills and passion can serve the [Department Name] team. Let's schedule an interview to explore this further."

Your cover letter is your chance to showcase your personality and passion for the role. Explore our Cover Letter Guide to learn how to make a lasting impression.

What Should Your Firefighter Cover Letter Include?

Your cover letter needs the right balance to grab a hiring manager's attention. Here's a quick checklist to make sure you've got the essentials in each section:

Intro Paragraph

• Job title you're applying for
• Your experience level (entry-level, experienced, etc.)
• A sentence highlighting your passion for serving as a firefighter

Body Paragraphs

• Skills and experiences that match the job description's keywords
• Brief examples that PROVE you have those skills (think mini-stories)
• Relevant certifications and specialized training
• Numbers to quantify your accomplishments (hours of training, successful drills, etc.)

Call to Action

• Express your enthusiasm for serving the department
• Directly ask for an interview

Do's and Don'ts for Building a Firefighter Cover Letter

Think of this as your safety checklist before heading into the interview 'fire'.

• DO tailor your letter. Show them you understand the department's priorities and how you align with their values.
• DO showcase your passion. Let them see that being a firefighter is more than just a job to you.
• DO proofread multiple times. Then, have a friend double-check it. Typos are a major turn-off.
• DO be concise. Aim for one page maximum. You want them focused on your skills, not getting bored.
• DON'T use a generic template. It will be apparent, and that shows a lack of effort.
• DON'T just repeat your resume. Your cover letter should highlight the most relevant points and expand on them.
• DON'T exaggerate. Be honest about your experience, but frame it in the best possible light.
• DON'T get overly casual. Being friendly is good, but being overly familiar is not.

How do you format your firefighters' cover letter?

Think of your cover letter like your turnout gear – it shouldn't be flashy, but it needs to be organized and easy to use. Here's the checklist:

Contact Info: Your name, email, and phone number should be at the very top, front and center.

Font: Stick with something standard like Times New Roman or Arial, around size 11-12 points.

Margins: Standard 1-inch margins on all sides keep things looking clean.

Spacing: Single-space your text, but leave a blank line between paragraphs for readability.

Header: Consider adding your name and "Firefighter Cover Letter" to the header of the document – it looks polished!

File Type: Save your cover letter as a PDF. This ensures the formatting stays perfect no matter how they open it.

Keep it Simple: Avoid fancy graphics, borders, or colours. You want their focus to be on your qualifications, not on distracting design elements.

Here's a basic visual example of how a firefighter's cover letter should be laid out.

[Your Name] [Your Email] [Your Phone Number]

[Hiring Manager Name] (If you can find this, use it!) [Hiring Manager Title] [Fire Department Name] [Fire Department Address]

Dear [Hiring Manager Name], (If you don't have a name, use "Dear Hiring Manager,")

[Intro Paragraph – See previous examples]

[Body Paragraph 1]

[Body Paragraph 2]

[Your Signature] [Your Typed Name]

Keep in mind that website word processors often add extra spacing so the actual document will look more compact.

Tips to Supercharge Your Firefighter Cover Letter

• Research is Your Secret Weapon: Check out the fire department's website and social media. Weave what you learn into your letter.
• Showcase Your Passion (with a Professional Filter): Let them see this is more than just a job to you, but avoid overly emotional language.
• Proofread Like Your Life Depends on It: Typos and errors are an instant turn-off for a profession that demands precision.
• Make Them See You in Action: Brief examples (training, emergency response, volunteer work, even relevant non-fire stuff) are more potent than just listing skills.
• Tailor, Tailor, Tailor: A generic cover letter won't stand out. Highlight why YOU are the perfect fit for THIS fire department.
• Don't Be Afraid to Follow Up: A polite follow-up email or call shows initiative and genuine interest.

This article has been written by Sanjoy Khan Choudhury . He works as a Content Marketing Specialist at Vantage Lens . His areas of interest include music, marketing, cuisine, and anime. When he’s not writing, he’s usually singing to the tune of his guitar or finding some weird way to cook his meal.

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Firefighter Cover Letter Example (+Tips)

Firefighting isn’t for the faintest of hearts, but it’s a rewarding, well-paid, and fulfilling career that lets you serve your community best. Moreover, it’s an always in-demand position. The National Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the employment of firefighters to grow 4% from 2021 to 2031. 

If you’re looking to enter this career path or join a new fire department, you’ll have to prepare two job application documents — a resume and a cover letter. This post offers a sample firefighter cover letter you can use as an inspiration for writing, followed by extra actionable tips. 

Firefighter Cover Letter Example (Word)

Download example (.docx)

Firefighter Cover Letter (plain text)

Good day Chef Strapolinsky, 

Following a discussion with your colleague, Sergeant Mitchel, I would like to express my interest in the open position at Tahoe Fire Department. 

I’m a trained firefighter and paramedic (EMS1), a former volunteer at Clay County FD, and a retired US Marine Corps Military Police officer. Currently, I’m employed part-time as a wildland firefighter with the Jackson Country FD for assistance with seasonal wildfires. I’m looking to relocate to Placer County in September 2023, although I would be open to traveling for on-site interviews at an early date. 

During my career, I have organized rapid, effective, and precise emergency responses with multi-jurisdictional emergency teams to help deal with massive rural wildfires and emergency rescue operations in the cities. Among my strengths are a naturally calm demeanor, effective communication, and strong rapport-building skills.

My past military experiences have taught me the importance of fast, unified response, which I effectively implement in my current position. I’m also well-trained in facilitating and coordinating cross-departmental efforts, as well as coaching personnel on safety and operating procedures. As a volunteer, I have regularly provided fire safety training at schools and business establishments around Clay County. 

Recognized among peers as a reliable partner and dynamic leader, I am confident that I will be a great addition to the Tahoe Fire Department. A copy of my resume and a list of references is enclosed.

Look forward to speaking with you soon,

Josh McMickels 

How to Write a Firefighter Cover Letter 

A cover letter allows you to bring up your most marketable qualifications in front of the reader. Effectively, it provides a preview of your resume and allows you to talk a bit more about your background, motivation, and career trajectory. 

To create a compelling cover letter, similar to the above sample, start with an outline where you write down your main talking points:

• Your professional background 
• Current role and duties 
• Main skills and achievements 

Once you have a couple of key talking points, expand them into a full-length cover letter by applying the following tips: 

Give a Walkthrough of Your Career 

Some enter the fire-fighting industry straight after school. Others transition to this role later in life. Most decision-makers aren’t phased by candidates with diverse backgrounds. Still, it always helps to explain what skills and competencies you already have to avoid the reader from second-guessing your abilities. 

If you’re a career changer , talk a bit more about your transferable skills — competencies that you can bring from your past role into the new one. For example, the author above explains how his military career made him a better team player and shaped his ability to perform well under stress. 

Likewise, if there are any gaps on your resume , a cover letter is the place to address and explain them. 

Emphasize Your Teamwork Abilities 

Successful incident containment requires meticulous coordination and unified response. Moreover, rash or foolish behaviors on the scene can put others in danger. Show that you understand the importance of following the procedures, checking in with your colleagues, and coordinating your actions with others. This is best done with several examples from your previous roles. 

It also helps to highlight your ability to remain calm under pressure and work effectively. When emotions run high, a good firefighter knows how to avoid conflict in teams and effectively convey the information to others. 

Showcase a Wide Range of Skills

Firefighters are mostly seen in action, battling the fire and conducting rescue operations. But a lot of the time, you’d be also tasked with various admin jobs — from handling supplies and equipment maintenance to providing training to the general public or peers. 

Therefore, your cover letter shouldn’t just focus on your physical strengths and courageous personality. Show that you are a well-rounded professional who also understands the “business” side of the profession. Share a couple of examples, demonstrating your organizational and self-management skills . 

If you can, quantify some of your past accomplishments. For example, you can mention something along the lines of “reduced supply costs by 15% through vendor negotiation”. Such data-backed snippets will add extra weight to your cover letter.  

Final Tip: Bring Up Extra Qualifications 

You don’t need a degree to land a fire-fighting job. A high school diploma or GED certificate would do. That said, you can stand out more among other applicants by bringing up any extra training and certifications that you have.

For example, having an emergency medical technician (EMT) or equipment management specialist (EMS) certification is a big plus. There are also a number of other professional training programs you may want to consider such as hazmat training or arson investigation. Specialized training and knowledge will always make you a more attractive candidate.

Elena runs content operations at Freesumes since 2017. She works closely with copywriters, designers, and invited career experts to ensure that all content meets our highest editorial standards. Up to date, she wrote over 200 career-related pieces around resume writing, career advice... more

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Firefighter cover letter example

Cover letter header

Cover letter greeting, cover letter introduction, cover letter middle paragraphs (body of the letter), how to end a firefighter cover letter (conclusion and sign-off).

Getting a job as a firefighter can be a long and often bureaucratic process, but just as in most jobs, it starts with a great firefighter application. And we don’t mean a winning resume alone. To come out blazing in the eyes of hiring managers, you need a firefighter cover letter that will help you climb the ladder. Resume.io is a good place to start, with job search resources that include more than 180 occupation-specific writing guides and corresponding cover letter examples .

The cover letter example and guide, specifically for firefighters, will aim to:

• Provide context in terms of the job role and outlook for firefighters
• Convey why a firefighter cover letter is important
• Outline the correct cover letter format, and advice how to optimize each section: header, greeting, introduction, middle paragraphs and closing
• Address how firefighters with no experience can write a cover letter
• Touch on psychological factors you can leverage to win over recruiters and hiring managers with your writing
• Help you avoid common cover letter mistakes

Here is exactly how you can write a cover letter that will stand out from the crowd, and help you land that interview.

Role and job outlook for firefighters

Congratulations and thank you for your service as a firefighter! You are a first responder and we are grateful. Firefighters end up in the news when wildfires rage or disaster strikes, but you are on call and working behind the scenes even in your “down time.” Safety inspections, fire training, physical fitness training and fire station maintenance are all part of your job description. And, yes, you may even be called on to get a cat (or a dog) out of a tree.

• According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) the median income for firefighters in May 2020 was $52,500.
• The same source indicates there were 317,200 U.S. firefighters employed in 2010. That number is expected to increase by 8% to 344,100 by 2030 — a growth rate consistent with the occupational average.

Why a cover letter is important

Within your resume, you must stick closely to a format that does not allow for much individualization, other than in the summary. But what distinguishes you from all the other candidates who want the same firefighting position? It’s your cover letter! This is your chance to introduce yourself to the hiring manager and highlight the firefighting skills and experience that make you the right fit for the job. It’s an opportunity you can’t afford to miss.

In fact, simply not bothering to write a cover letter could get your firefighter resume thrown in the trash. A Harris Poll found that 10% of hiring managers consider not including a cover letter in your application as a deal-breaker.

Take advantage of the ideas and inspiration you can gain from looking at these other cover letter examples and writing guides in our security & protective services category.

• Police Officer cover letter sample
• Security Guard cover letter sample
• Law Enforcement cover letter sample
• Security and Protective Services cover letter sample
• Military cover letter sample
• Prison and Probation Services cover letter sample

Best format for a firefighter cover letter

What do you put into a cover letter? Excellent question. A good application letter for firefighters, or virtually any other occupation, will have the same basic components. Here are the elements that a good format for a firefighter cover letter should include:

• Cover letter middle paragraphs (body)
• Conclusion and sign-off.

This firefighter cover letter example is a good jumping-off point to start writing your own application document:

Dear Mr. Howell,

My three years at Carson County Fire Department taught me that you can never be too prepared when you respond to a call out. I can count the tragic fatalities on one hand, but each one has redoubled my determination to be the best I can be every time I go out.

Having personally responded to 2,000+ emergency situations, from forest fires and chemical spillages to traffic accidents and residential blazes, my training and experience have led me to make the right decisions in the right circumstances for myself, for my team and for those that require our assistance.

Having grown up as the son of a firefighter, it was a proud day when I received my Associate Degree in Fire Science from Brookson Community College. I started at the bottom at Carson and worked my way up to Senior Firefighter over three years, passing my EMT and First Responder certifications and receiving state recognition for my work on a number of occasions — for my work in school education and industrial fire safety awareness.

I keep myself in top physical condition by taking part in Ironman triathlons and all manner of state firefighting sports events. I love to compete (with others and with myself) and am always striving to become mentally and physically fitter.

My knowledge of hazardous materials handling, emergency medicine and rescue techniques evolved with every call out and I learned from one of the most decorated fire chiefs in the service. He drilled all manner of fire-fighting methodologies into his team and I soaked up the knowledge in addition to the stories that my father told as I was growing up.

Becoming a Howard County firefighter would be an honor to match anything that I achieved in my life to date. I would love the chance to discuss what skills I would bring to your team.

Jamie Fulton

You may prefer to use this cover letter sample simply for vague inspiration, or you can copy-paste and edit to your heart’s content. The choice is yours. 

Now we’ll take a closer look at each section, with advice for achieving the strongest impact.

Back in olden times when snail mail was the norm, you would include all your contact information in a neat and graphically pleasing header at the top of your cover letter. Those days are (mostly) gone, but don’t give in to the temptation to exclude the header, since you most likely will be attaching your firefighter cover letter to an email. 

Besides distinguishing yourself visually from other firefighter applicants, the header has an important practical purpose. Your application materials may get printed out and passed from one manager to another. In that process, a piece may get separated from your file. If that document has your name and contact information on it, it will be easy for hiring managers to replace it. If not, it’s likely to end up in the trash and your file will be missing your cover letter.

On the chance that you are mailing a letter, your header should follow the same guidelines. 

Your goal is to make it as easy as possible for recruiters to contact you. That means your phone number and email are prominently displayed on your cover letter as well as your resume. Consider using a bit of eye-catching color to make this information stand out even more, but don’t get too flashy. 

Goal of the cover letter header: Set you apart visually from other firefighter candidates and make your cover letter easier to retrieve and keep together with other application documents.

Also known as a salutation, this is the “Dear Xxxxxx,” part of your firefighter cover letter. But don’t underestimate the power of these few words. People like to be addressed by name; it creates an instant connection. Take extra care with gender. If you are not sure whether the recruiter is male or female, default to using their full name.or example: “Dear Terry King.”

Career coach and author Martin Yate suggests several different ways to address the hiring manager in your firefighter cover letter – all of them begin with “Dear.” If you cannot find the name of the hiring manager or your application is going to a hiring committee, you may say “Dear [name of employer] Hiring Committee,”. Do not fall back on the old-fashioned “To Whom It May Concern.” unless you’re completely sure the hiring decision-maker appreciates this kind of overly-formal language. 

Here are five ways to find out to whom you should address your letter:

• Look on the company’s website
• Make a phone call to the company (and ask for the correct spelling of the person’s name)
• Search online on LinkedIn or an industry website
• Read the job listing to see if contact information is included
• Research who you would be reporting to and use that person’s name.

Goal of the cover letter greeting: Establish a professional connection with the employer in a manner that’s friendly but not overly familiar.

Below is the greeting from our firefighter cover letter example.

Imagine you are at a social gathering and want to introduce yourself to a new person. Would you walk up to them and say, “I am approaching you because I want to introduce myself”? No, you would not! The same rule applies to your firefighter cover letter introduction, so do not start with “I am writing to apply …. .” The hiring manager knows you are writing to apply or you wouldn’t have answered the job ad.

Just as you want to grab the interest of the person at the party, you want to pique the interest of the hiring manager. So start with a sentence that identifies the job you’re seeking and offers an early glimpse at your qualifications. The introduction sets the tone for your cover letter, so keep it professional, but friendly.

Here’s a cover letter sample that showcases an expanded introduction, as opposed to an overly short and lackluster one:

As a 5-year veteran of forest firefighting, I have the experience to lead your fire prevention efforts.

I would love to have a job working with your forest fire agency.

Goal of the cover letter introduction: Pique the reader’s interest with a glimpse at your strongest qualifications as a firefighter.

Here’s the introduction from our firefighter cover letter sample.

The body of your cover letter is the meat between the bread of your introduction and conclusion. It is here, in these two or three paragraphs, that you show where there’s smoke, there’s fire. You’ve sparked interest with a tidbit about your skills and now you are going to describe your experiences and successes as a firefighter. 

Stick with one or two success stories that highlight the skills listed in the posted job description. in the job listing. One method for writing about these achievements is known by the acronym STAR, which stands for “Situation, Task, Action, Result.” The similar CAR method simplifies this model into “Context, Action, Result.”

A huge part of your job as a firefighter has nothing to do with fighting fires. You will be working and living with a team of firefighters on long shifts of 12 to 24 hours. Many firefighters work on a “ 24-48 ” schedule in which they work for 24 hours and have 48 hours off.

Why do we mention this? Because you need to do more than tell the hiring manager why you are the best person for the job. You have to prove that you can get along with different personalities in close quarters, all within a 200-400 word letter. Consider using a sentence or two to talk about your style within the fire station.

Review your resume and avoid repeating yourself. Your cover letter should not be a summary of that document, but rather enhance it by mentioning different skills or experiences.

Goal of the cover letter body: Elaborate on how this employer would benefit from your contributions on its firefighting team.

Our firefighter cover letter sample illustrates what you might include in the middle part.

You’ve detailed why you are the best firefighter for the job, and now you have to wrap up. In your cover letter conclusion, you must show that you are eager for next steps by including a call to action. Your goal, of course, is to get an interview, so let the hiring manager know that. Mention how excited you are about the position and let recruiters know you would love to hear from them. Repeat your contact information if space allows.

Finally, add your signature with a closing salutation such as “Sincerely” or “Best Regards.” 

Goal of the cover letter closing: End on a positive, enthusiastic note with a call to action that implies some expectation that the employer will follow up.

Below is the closing section of our sample firefighter letter.

Firefighter cover letter with no experience

You have all the firefighter training you need and have passed the written exam, but you haven’t actually picked up a hose as a fire department employee. How do you write a cover letter with no experience?

Here are some tips:

• Focus on the skills you developed in school or training such as excellent organization, calm under pressure and communication
• Infuse your letter with enthusiasm for your chosen career and explain why you want to work as a firefighter
• Play up your volunteer experience

Staying calm

Firefighters are required to go through psychological evaluation to determine whether they will be able to withstand the stress of the job. Firefighting is often listed among the most stressful jobs , so one great piece of information to put into your cover letter is how you manage stress. 

Frontline Responder Services recommends focused-stress relief activities among other methods. You don’t have to go into great detail, but if you play a sport or regularly do yoga or meditate, add a sentence about those routines in your firefighter cover letter to show that you understand the importance of stress-management.

When you don’t have much experience in the field you’re applying to, writing a cover letter can feel like a daunting task. While you might be tempted to submit your application without one, that would be a big mistake.

Writing psychology: tips and tricks for creating your firefighter cover letter

You’re a person of action and writing may seem daunting. So how do you write a convincing firefighter cover letter in one page? Remember that writers don’t simply start typing, get to the end and walk away. They brainstorm, take notes, develop a structure and decide on a tone. You should do the same. 

Consider asking friends or colleagues how they would describe you and incorporate those strong words in your cover letter. Feel free to Google synonyms to avoid repeating the same words too many times.

Creative Circle’s “ 5 Writing Tips for Non-writers ” suggests writing for short attention spans, or in your case, busy hiring managers. Keep your sentences and paragraphs short. Get to the point and get out. It also suggests writing the way you talk. That is a great place to start, but remember that you need to strike a slightly more formal tone. 

Use a blend of emotional appeal and hard facts to impress hiring managers.

Here’s a cover letter example of effective writing within the “rational+emotional” method:

I was that child who was fascinated by fire trucks. I have wanted to be a firefighter since I was 4 and I have never wavered in that goal. In the first three years of my career in the San Francisco Bay Area, I fought the Mendocino Complex and North Complex wildfires in addition to answering 25 building fire calls.

Mistakes to avoid in a firefighter cover letter

You’re trying to ignite your firefighter career, and you need a great cover letter. Silly mistakes and oversights are the last things you can afford. Here are some issue to avoid:

• You don’t customize your letter for each job. A generic firefighter cover letter won’t make the grade. Show you read the job listing and understand the issues unique to the municipality or district to which you are applying.  
• You get too casual. Sure, we all may have an image of firefighter chili cook-offs and basketball games during downtime, but firefighting is serious business, so use a tone that matches.  
• You leave too little white space. Ending each paragraph at the far margin, or creating paragraphs that are more than about five lines, makes for big blocks of text. White space makes your cover letter easier to read. Using professional tools is your best way to make sure you get this right.  
• You use a different style for your resume and cover letter. Keep it consistent. A common visual style not only looks neater, but will help prevent your materials from getting separated as they are passed from hand to hand.  
• Formatting errors and bad fonts. Many text editors will result in buggy letter formats and strange-looking headers. Even the choice of font can be problematic. The cover letter templates and builder tool we offer at resume.io are your best bet to sidestep all these problems.

If you aren’t someone who knows all the nitpicky details of grammar, have a trusted colleague, family member or friend proofread. In fact, even if you are grammar-wise, it’s always good to have a second set of eyes on your firefighter cover letter. A typos could eliminate you from the running for the job. Laszlo Bock, the former Senior VP of People Operations at Google, called typos the number one mistake that will trash your candidacy. Alternatively, choose a cover letter builder that has a grammar checker function.

Key Takeaways

• Your firefighter cover letter offers you the opportunity to show how your personality will mesh with the other firefighters at the station.
• Make sure you get personal by addressing your letter to an individual.
• Use a blend of emotional and factual information to connect to the hiring manager.
• Match the design of your cover letter to your resume for consistency and make sure you proofread!

Now you’re ready to create your professional firefighter cover letter and land that job. Resume.io makes the process easy with our expertly-designed templates and the firefighter cover letter sample covered in this guide. 

Free professionally designed templates

Firefighter Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips

Use these Firefighter cover letter examples and writing tips to help you write a powerful cover letter that will separate you from the competition.

Table of Contents

• Firefighter Cover Letter Example 1
• Firefighter Cover Letter Example 2
• Firefighter Cover Letter Example 3

Firefighter Cover Letter Writing Tips

The job of a firefighter is inherently dangerous, but the brave men and women who do it are essential to protecting the lives and property of their communities.

To get the attention of hiring managers, you’ll need to write a cover letter that conveys your passion for helping people, along with your professional skills.

Follow these examples and tips to learn how to write a firefighter cover letter that’s sure to impress hiring managers.

Firefighter Cover Letter Example 1

I’d like to express my interest in the firefighter job that you currently have open. As a fully-qualified first responder with seven years of experience in the field, I believe I would make a great addition to your team at the Kensington County Fire Department.

On paper, I hold a bachelor’s degree in emergency management from the University of Kentucky. I’m also certified in EMT, CPR/AED and debfib, and I’ve been vetted as a Federal Red Card System Member since 2009. I currently hold a Class B driver’s license and have never been in an accident or received a ticket for anything.

In terms of real-world experience, I’ve been a member of my county’s fire department for the past seven years. I’m qualified to handle fires in both residential and land environments, and I’m capable of administering fire suppression and basic emergency medical care in high-pressure situations. I’ve run into burning buildings and helped to evacuate local citizens from the path of forest fires. I’ve wrapped tourniquets. I’ve even rescued a kitten from a second-story window.

You said in your ad that you’re looking for someone who can help prevent fires as well as put them out. One of my duties in my current position is to host an annual Fire Safety Awareness Class (FSAC) for elementary schools throughout my district. I’ve also spoken at lectures and professional seminars about fire prevention.

Another requirement in your ad was a strong people person, someone who can manage and even lead the firehouse when the captains are away. I’d actually like to be a captain someday, so I take workplace order very seriously. I fully adhere to all safety protocols and am known around my current department as the “go-to” person for questions about regulations.

I think that being a firefighter is one of the most noble career paths anyone can take, and I’m proud to have served as a fire suppression and extermination expert for the past seven years. If you’re willing to give me a chance, you’ll find me to be a passionate and deeply committed employee who really believes in what we’re doing.

I’d love the chance to sit down with you and discuss my qualifications in person. I can be reached by phone or email any day of the week between 8am and 8pm. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Firefighter Cover Letter Example 2

I heard from Captain Steven Madlock in the Albany Fire Department that you’re looking for new firefighters at the Hillwood Emergency Response Center. I’m a fully-certified EMT and fire suppression specialist with six years of experience in emergency environments, and I believe I’m more than qualified to join your team.

I began my career in the pre-med program at the University of Wisconsin before switching my major to emergency medical technician in my junior year. After obtaining my bachelor’s degree, I gained employment at Methodist North Hospital as an EMT, a position I enjoyed for two years.

I felt the call of firefighting when I took an optional course in fire safety in 2012. I quickly realized I’d found a new passion, and I graduated from the Wisconsin Academy of Fire Science before the end of the year.

I learned all about controlling and containing fires in the Academy. In addition to book work, we also ran simulations of burning buildings and residential homes, and I passed every test with flying colors thanks to my background as an EMT. I’m calm in even the direst of circumstances, and I can apply basic field-level medical care to anyone on the scene who needs it.

I’ve spent the last four years as a volunteer firefighter for the Albany Fire Department, but I’d love the opportunity to become a firefighter full-time. I’m a passionate, dedicated individual who has found my life’s work in being a first responder, and I’d love the opportunity to show you what I can do in person.

My father was a doctor, and I greatly admired his work and followed in his footsteps when I entered the medical field. We always joked that helping people is in my genes. As for my experience, I feel I’ve outlined that already, and my passion means that I’m always willing to go above and beyond to save lives.

I’ve attached my resume so you can view the details of my degrees and certificates. References are available upon request. If you’d like to get in touch with me to schedule an interview, I can be reached any day of the week after 10am.

Firefighter Cover Letter Example 3

I am writing to apply for the open firefighter position that was advertised Sunday in the Omaha Times. I have recently moved to Omaha from out of state and am looking to continue the firefighting career that I’ve been working on for the last decade. As this letter will demonstrate, I have extensive personal and professional qualifications that make me uniquely suited to perform this job.

Immediately after high school, I attended Big State University where I obtained a bachelor’s degree in fire science. After graduation, I used my degree to become a firefighter in the military. I used my qualifications to train others in the process of fighting fires started by natural causes, chemicals, and arson. I also became comfortable working to extinguish fires even under extremely dangerous circumstances. While in the military I was responsible for fighting fires while under enemy fire. I was highly successful in this position and eventually obtained the rank of captain. Before leaving the service, I earned a Purple Heart.

Upon receiving my honorable discharge I continued firefighting in my home state of Indiana. I become a certified EMT and also obtained an Executive Fire Officer certification from the National Fire Academy. I also continued by education by pursuing coursework in anti-arson and disaster preparedness.

Furthermore, throughout my career I have placed a high priority on physical fitness. I am capable of running a 6 minute mile and lifting 300 pounds. Due to my extensive experience, you can trust that my body will not fail me even under the most stressful of circumstances. I have been in situations where I was forced to work on a fire for over 24 hours and have never succumbed to exhaustion.

As my recommendations will show, I have excellent interpersonal skills. I am happiest when working as a member of a team. I know that there is no place for egos or selfishness in a fire station and I am proud to say that I always give my best to helping out teammates. I will always be there to help others who are struggling and to help carry the load when my teammates need me.

All told, I believe these qualifications make me an excellent candidate. I would like the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications in an interview. I can be contacted at 555-555-5555, or by email at [email protected] . I look forward to hearing from you.

Highlight your communication skills

Firefighters are responsible for protecting people from danger and loss. As a firefighter, it’s your job to keep the public calm and informed during an emergency. If you want to be a firefighter, show hiring managers how you can do this in your cover letter by highlighting any experience you have interacting with people or community outreach.

Emphasize physical fitness

Because of the physical demands of this profession, it’s important to emphasize that you’re in excellent physical condition and have the strength, stamina and endurance to work long shifts. To make it clear that you are physically capable for this job, start off your cover letter with a brief story about a time when you were able to show bravery or strength during an emergency situation.

Show That You Are Willing to Face Challenges

As a firefighter, you’re one of the first responders at the scene of an emergency. You need to be able to stay cool and work efficiently under extreme pressure.

To show prospective employers that you are confident and competent in these situations, make sure your cover letter emphasizes your ability to deliver when it matters most. Your letter should also discuss how you bring out the best in others so that they feel empowered to do their best work as well.

Proofread your cover letter

It’s important to proofread your cover letter because it is the one chance you have to make a first impression. When applying for firefighter positions, you want your resume and cover letter to be precise and detailed. After all, if you can’t spell or use proper grammar, why would they think you are serious about the job.

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5 Professional Firefighter Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your firefighter cover letter must quickly grab the attention of the hiring panel. Show your passion for serving the community and your commitment to the firefighting profession. Demonstrate your capacity to work under pressure and your exceptional teamwork skills. Outline your most relevant qualifications and experiences that make you an ideal candidate for the role.

All cover letter examples in this guide

Entry-Level Firefighter

Senior Firefighter

Wildland Firefighter

Volunteer Firefighter

Cover letter guide.

Firefighter Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Firefighter Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

By Experience

Embarking on the journey to become a firefighter, you've diligently submitted applications only to realize a compelling cover letter is a crucial piece of the puzzle. This isn't just a repeat of your resume; it's your chance to shine with a powerful story of professional pride, wrapped in a formal yet authentic tone. Steer clear of clichés and keep it concise—no more than one page. Get ready to ignite the interest of your future employer without burning through unnecessary words.

• Write a firefighter cover letter that helps you stand out (and get the job);
• Understand how to start and end your firefighter cover letter with the appropriate greeting;
• What to include in the body of your firefighter cover letter to put your best foot forward;
• Your most important achievements - how to present them as part of your firefighter cover letter.

And if you want to make your life even easier, simply drag and drop your firefighter resume into Enhancv's AI cover letter generator, and it will write your cover letter for you in just a few moments.

If the firefighter isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

• Firefighter resume guide and example
• Law Enforcement cover letter example
• Security Officer cover letter example
• Security Guard cover letter example
• Retired Police Officer cover letter example
• Security Dispatcher cover letter example
• Investigator cover letter example
• Unarmed Security Guard cover letter example
• Entry-Level Police Officer cover letter example
• Incident Manager cover letter example
• Public Safety Officer cover letter example

Firefighter cover letter example

PETER CONNOLLY

Wood River, IL

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Demonstrate direct industry experience: Highlighting prior work at the same company shows familiarity with the specific industrial environment and its safety protocols, which would be advantageous for the EMT/Firefighter position at Phillips66.
• Emphasize relevant incidents: Detailing a particular high-stakes emergency situation where quick decision-making and specialized skills were necessary underscores the candidate's ability to handle similar events at Phillips66.
• Focus on the desired impact: Expressing a desire to contribute to the safety and wellbeing of the employees and facilities at Phillips66 conveys a strong personal commitment to the potential role.
• Qualifications and Certifications: Mentioning qualifications, such as being an EMT, or any specialized firefighting certifications, aligns the candidate's training with the specialized requirements of the EMT/Firefighter position.

Five tips on formatting your firefighter cover letter

Do you want to make a good impression on recruiters and, at the same time, follow the best industry advice on writing your firefighter cover letter?

Make sure to include the following:

• Header and Salutation;
• Introductory paragraph;
• Body paragraph;
• Closing paragraph;
• Signature (this one is up to you).

Remember to use the same modern, simple font for your firefighter cover letter as you did for your resume (e.g. Lato, Rubik, etc.)

Ensure your firefighter cover letter is single-spaced and is wrapped around a one-inch margin, like in our cover letter templates .

Once completed, use our cover letter builder to export your firefighter cover letter in the best format to keep your information intact - PDF.

At the end of the day, your firefighter cover letter won't be assessed by the Applicant Tracker System (ATS) software, but by the recruiters. Your information should thus be legible, organized, and follow a structured logic.

The top sections on a firefighter cover letter

• Header: This includes the applicant's contact information, the date, and the employer's contact information, which is essential for presentation and ensures the cover letter reaches the correct individual within the fire department.
• Opening Greeting: A proper salutation addressed directly to the hiring manager or recruitment team shows respect and attention to detail, essential traits for a firefighter who must deal with the public and team members.
• Introduction: This section should briefly mention the applicant’s motivation and enthusiasm for the role, as well as highlight any previous firefighting experience or related emergency services work, demonstrating an understanding of the job's demands.
• Body: This contains one to two paragraphs detailing the applicant’s relevant skills, training, certifications (such as EMT or Paramedic), physical fitness, teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and any notable incidents that showcase their capability as a firefighter, which are crucial to the role.
• Closing: This part should reaffirm the applicant’s commitment to serving the community as a firefighter, express eagerness to discuss their qualifications further in an interview, and thank the recruiter for considering their application, all of which show professionalism and a sincere interest in the position.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

• Proven physical fitness and stamina: to handle the rigorous physical challenges of firefighting.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills: essential for coordinating effectively on the scene of an emergency.
• Experience in emergency response and firefighting tactics: indicates an understanding of standard operating procedures and safety protocols.
• Certifications and training in fire science, EMT, or paramedicine: demonstrates a commitment to the field and the possession of necessary lifesaving skills.
• Resilience and the ability to remain calm under pressure: crucial for maintaining focus and making critical decisions during life-threatening situations.
• Public education and community engagement experience: firefighters often participate in community safety initiatives and need to be comfortable with outreach and education roles.

How to address hiring managers in your firefighter cover letter greeting

Goodbye, "Dear Sir/Madam" or "To whom it may concern!"

The salutation of your firefighter cover letter is how you kick off your professional communication with the hiring managers.

And you want it to start off a bit more personalized and tailored, to catch the recruiters' attention.

Take the time to find out who's recruiting for the role (via LinkedIn or the company page).

If you have previously chatted or emailed the hiring managers, address them on a first or last name basis.

The alternative is a "Dear HR team" or "Dear Hiring Manger", but remember that a "Dear Ms. Simmons" or "Dear Simon," could get you farther ahead than an impersonal greeting.

List of salutations you can use

• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear Fire Chief [Last Name],
• Dear [Fire Department] Recruitment Team,
• Dear Captain [Last Name],
• Dear Lieutenant [Last Name],
• Dear Selection Committee,

Get creative with your firefighter cover letter introduction

Recruiters are going to assess plenty of candidate profiles for the role. Thus, anything you do to stand out will win you brownie points.

Use your firefighter cover letter introduction to share something memorable about your experience .

But before you go down the rabbit hole of creativity and humor, align your message with the company culture.

For example, if you are applying for a role in some startup, use those first two sentences to tell a funny story (about your experience) to quickly connect with the recruiter.

Storytelling in the middle (or body) of your firefighter cover letter

You've got your whole resume sorted, detailing your achievements and skills. What else can you write in your firefighter cover letter ?

For starters, take the time to re-assess the job requirements and re-discover the most crucial skills and requirements (or keywords).

After making a list of these important keywords, look back on your experience to select just one of your past accomplishments.

Choose the achievement that is the most noteworthy, relevant to the role, and matches the required skills.

Use the next between three and six paragraphs to narrate how:

• you've grown your skill set, thanks to your achievement;
• you'd use the know-how you've gained in your new role;
• your accomplishment could help your potential employers grow.

Remember that recruiters don't need a retelling of your whole resume, but want to find out what makes you, you.

Ending your firefighter cover letter: a closing paragraph with a promise

If you're thinking of finishing your firefighter cover letter with a "Sincerely yours" or "Thanks for the consideration," you need to read on.

End the final paragraph of your firefighter cover letter with a twist:

• a promise - of how you'd grow as a professional, part of the company, or improve organizational metrics;
• a call to action - prompt interviewers with some follow-up actions if they are interested in your profile.

A personalized ending would surely help you to stand out by being a memorable candidate.

No experience firefighter cover letter: making the most out of your profile

Candidates who happen to have no professional experience use their firefighter cover letter to stand out.

Instead of focusing on a professional achievement, aim to quantify all the relevant, transferrable skills from your life experience.

Once again, the best practice to do so would be to select an accomplishment - from your whole career history.

Another option would be to plan out your career goals and objectives: how do you see yourself growing, as a professional, in the next five years, thanks to this opportunity?

Be precise and concise about your dreams, and align them with the company vision.

Key takeaways

We hope this firefighter cover letter writing guide has shown you how to:

• Format your firefighter cover letter with the mandatory sections (e.g. header, greeting, intro, body, and closing) and select the right font (P.S. It should be the same as the one you've used for your resume);
• Substitute your lack of professional experience with your most noteworthy achievement, outside of work, or your dreams and passions;
• Ensure recruiters have a more personalized experience by tailoring your cover letter not just to the role, but to them (e.g. writing their first/last name in the salutation, etc.);
• Introducing your biggest achievement and the skills it has taught you in your firefighter cover letter body;
• Write no more than two sentences in your firefighter cover letter introduction to set the right tone from the get-go.

Firefighter cover letter examples

Explore additional firefighter cover letter samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

Cover letter examples by industry

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Ideal Cover Letter Length: How Long Should A Cover Letter Be?

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Entry Level Firefighter Cover Letter No Experience (3 Examples)

A well-written cover letter for a firefighter position can make a favorable impression on your candidacy. It enhances the chances to get a firefighter interview .

When writing your cover letter, use an employer-centered approach to get the best results. Write specifically about how you can help the organization meet its goals.

How to Write a Great Cover Letter for a Firefighter Position with No Experience?

• Write your cover letter smartly by highlighting your relevant certifications and training, in addition to firefighting skills.
• Justify your candidacy by emphasizing your passion for working for the employer.
• Find out more about the employer, and their expectations. Then write your cover letter by tailoring it as per their needs.

Here are 3 examples to guide you further:

Firefighter Cover Letter With No Experience Sample 1

Davis Anderson 410 Olive Lane, Warren, MI 65332 (000) 216-3423 davis @ email . com

October 21, 2021

Mr. Jason Fredrick HR Manager City Fire Department 933 Alexander Ave Warren, MI 65332

Dear Mr. Anderson:

As an alert and valiant Firefighter with current firefighting training, coupled with first aid and BCLS certification, I am applying for a Firefighter position at City Fire Department. I am eager to make the most of my enthusiasm and physical stamina to contribute to your bottom line.

As can be seen in the attached resume, I have a demonstrated ability to judge the situation and make quick decisions to save maximum lives and property. I offer expertise in:

• Hose connecting, rescue services and fire combating
• Hydrant testing and fire hazard prevention protocols
• Pre-emergency plan formulation
• Tactical building surveys and practice drills

In addition to that, I am known to respond to unforeseen situations immediately. Not to mention, I am a team player with excellent communication and time management skills.

I would like to meet with you in an interview to discuss my candidacy in detail. Should you have any questions regarding my qualifications or background, feel free to contact me at (000) 216-3423. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Davis Anderson

Entry Level Firefighter Cover Letter Example 2

Adam Cole 2145 Pine Street South Flint, MI 70125 (000) 555-1010

Mr. Joe Frig Hiring Manager City of Flint 96 Kentucky Avenue Flint, MI 77878

Dear Mr. Frig:

As a recent firefighting license holder with a CPAT certification, I am ready to begin my career as a firefighter at the City of Flint. The combination of my passion and training makes me an excellent contender.

First of all, let me briefly highlight some of my key qualifications:

• Demonstrated knowledge of responding to emergency calls and requests for assistance.
• Highly skilled in assessing emergency situations while providing firefighting services promptly.
• Well-versed in minimizing distress and suffering by providing first aid and CPR.
• Deeply familiar with inspecting and maintaining firefighting equipment.

Besides that, I proved myself as a team player and an effective member of a team. My enthusiasm for this work and the ability to think on my feet will prove beneficial in this role.

I want to bring this passion to your department and request an interview to discuss the fit between your requirements and my talents. I will follow up on my application next week and can be contacted at (000) 555-1010 if required.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

New Firefighter Cover Letter Sample 3

Trent Rester (000) 521-6265 t.rester@email

Mr. Luke Walker Human Resources Manager Firefighters of Saint Paul 173 Rapids Road Saint Paul, MN

Dear Mr. Walker:

I have recently completed my firefighting training, and I am now ready to contribute as a firefighter at Firefighters of Saint Paul. The reason that I am so confident that I am an excellent individual to hire is the fact that I have aced my training with exceptional colors.

During the course of my training, I was taught to use sophisticated firefighting and rescue equipment. Promoting fire safety via talks, and advice is a virtue that I am proud of. Specifically, my skills lie in inspecting and enforcing safety standards in both commercial and residential properties.

As far as firefighting work is concerned, I am well-versed in responding to fire alarms, and extinguishing them with exceptional talent. Moreover, I possess demonstrated expertise in performing salvage operations such as throwing salvage covers, sweeping water, and removing debris.

Since firefighting is a passion for me, rather than just work, I make it a point to put in extra effort when performing my duty in any area related to it.

I am sure that I can convince you of my suitability for an interview. Thank you very much for your time and consideration.

Trent Rester (000) 521-6265

Related: Firefighter Resume No Experience

• Entry Level Firefighter Resume No Experience
• Top 10 Firefighter Resume Objective Examples
• Firefighter Cover Letter Sample
• Top 30 Firefighter Interview Questions and Answers

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WTO / Letters and Emails / Cover Letters / Firefighter Cover Letter Examples & Expert Tips

Firefighter Cover Letter Examples & Expert Tips

Firefighting is a critical service, playing a vital role in ensuring public safety and security. Consequently, employers seek candidates who possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and dedication to perform effectively in this challenging field. Similar to other professions, applying for a firefighter position requires a well-crafted cover letter as part of your application.

It serves as your first introduction to the hiring manager and plays a crucial role in getting your application noticed and thoroughly evaluated. It complements your resume by providing an opportunity to elaborate on your unique qualifications and suitability for the firefighter role, setting you apart from competing candidates. This article aims to guide you in crafting a compelling cover letter and offer additional insights to strengthen your application for a firefighter job.

In addition to discussing the key components of an effective cover letter, we will also explore the importance of showcasing your relevant training, certifications, and experiences to demonstrate your preparedness for the role. Furthermore, we will touch upon the significance of highlighting soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are integral to successful firefighting.

Lastly, we will guide tailoring this letter to specific firefighting positions, emphasizing your adaptability and readiness to take on various challenges within the field. By following these guidelines and incorporating the additional information provided, you will be well-equipped to create a standout cover letter that captures the attention of hiring managers and advances your application to the next stage of the hiring process.

Firefighter Cover Letter Templates

Firefighter skills

Firefighters play a multifaceted role in public safety, performing a wide range of tasks and responsibilities. These may include extinguishing fires and wildfires, rescuing injured individuals in emergencies, conducting safety inspections of buildings, and more. To excel in these diverse roles, a firefighter must possess a combination of hard and soft skills, which potential employers actively seek.

The following skills are commonly expected in a firefighter candidate:

Hard skills:

• Physical fitness and endurance
• First aid and emergency medical training
• Proficiency in using firefighting and rescue equipment
• Comprehension of public safety policies and procedures
• Understanding of building inspection codes and regulations

Soft skills:

• Leadership and ability to take charge in high-pressure situations
• Adaptability and flexibility in response to dynamic situations
• Problem-solving and critical thinking for efficient incident resolution
• Communication skills for effective interaction with team members and the public
• Teamwork and collaboration to achieve common goals
• Resilience and emotional stability in the face of adversity
• Interpersonal skills to build rapport with colleagues and the community
• Ability to work under pressure and manage stress
• Decision-making skills for prompt and appropriate actions

By demonstrating these hard and soft skills in your cover letter and resume, you can showcase your preparedness for the challenges of a firefighting career and increase your chances of being noticed by potential employers.

Make sure to provide examples of how you have applied these skills in your past experiences and how they align with the specific requirements of the firefighting role you are applying for.

How do I Format a Firefighter Cover Letter?

Writing it may seem daunting, but it does not have to be. If you follow the correct format and provide substantial information, you can craft a strong cover letter that persuades the recruiter to call you for an interview.

A standard cover letter for a firefighter will be formatted as follows:

A formal header

The first item you should include is a formal header. The traditional business header will include your name and contact details, as well as the recipient’s details (name, company name, and contact details). A date may as well be included.

tip for you

You should always aim to make it easy for the hiring manager to contact you. Including a valid phone number and email using an appealing but professional color is one way of making your contact information visible in the cover letter and resume.

Goal: A header serves different purposes. Firstly, it makes your cover letter visually distinguishable from the letters of the other candidates. Also, it simplifies the filing and retrieval of documents. Therefore, should it be misplaced, the recruiter can know where to file it. This lowers the chances of your letter being thrown out if it is found lying around in the office.

Therefore, a header is vital, especially for physical (hard copy) cover letters.

July 5, 2022

Michael Meyers 45 Lampkin Lane Haddonfield, IL 3922

James Huntley Hiring Manager, The Fire and Medical Services Response Department of Chicago 23 Springfield Street Chicago, IL 3922 Email address

Professional Greetings

A professional greeting will be structured as follows – Dear [Mr/Ms/Mrs] [Recipient’s last name] or Dear [full name]. It is also referred to as a salutation. It would be best to use a specific salutation; generic salutations do not add value to the cover letter for the firefighter position. 

Tip for you

If you don’t know the recipient’s name, consider researching. You can always search it up on the company’s website, contact the company and make an inquiry, do an online search through platforms such as LinkedIn, check for contact details in the job posting, or find out if you’re selected for the role, who you’d be reporting to and address the letter to them.

Goal: Courtesy is a highly valued virtue in any profession. A professional greeting acts as a courtesy gesture and is used to create a connection with the recipient. It exudes a friendly but not too informal tone. 

Dear Mr. Huntley or Dear James Huntley

Compelling introduction

You should always introduce your cover letter with a compelling statement. This essentially captures the interest of the reader. It is best to phrase your introduction with words that compel action or reaction from your reader. Typically, you should include a statement of your interest in the position.

Also, mention what you can bring to the table. This is an opportunity to let the hiring manager know “why” he should consider you as a candidate.

You should include substantial information in the introduction. For example, you can mention experience, one or two skills, and a quantifiable achievement. Generic statements would not add value to the letter.

Goal: The introduction to it aims to capture the recruiter’s interest by highlighting your most substantial qualifications. This way, the recruiter gets motivated to read the rest of the letter.

I am from a family with an extensive history in firefighting. So, I have always admired and respected the profession since childhood. I’m glad I ended up as a firefighter, taking over from my father before me. I’ve been in the profession for five years now, and I would like to bring my expertise and enthusiasm for the profession to ‘The Fire and Medical Services Response Department of Chicago. 

Middle paragraphs

This is the body of your cover letter. You can have 2 or 3 middle paragraphs in this section. Now that you’ve caught the recruiter’s attention in the introduction, you should retain it by providing an experience or two that illustrates the skills and requirements highlighted in the job description .

There are two approaches to tell an experience that effectively relays your qualifications – the STAR (situation, task, action, result) method and the CAR (context, action, result). Remember, firefighting is not limited to putting out fires; this profession requires a collaborative team effort, often involving 12-24 hour shifts alongside fellow firefighters. Therefore, most recruiters want to know how well you can collaborate with other firefighters.

The cover letter is not a resume summary – it should enhance and complement it. Therefore, always review your resume and ensure you have not simply restated it in your letter. Instead, include different skills and experiences and expound on them. Repetition downgrades the quality of your letter.

Goal: This section helps the recruiter understand what you have done so far and how it aligns with the job requirements.

I currently serve as a firefighter in the Milwaukee Emergency Services Department, Wisconsin. In 2016, I graduated from Madison Area Technical College. Since graduating, I’ve been a devoted serviceman and have handled more than 100 emergency cases ranging from wildfires, building fires, landslides, severe storms, and flood accidents, among others.

I train and practice martial combat to remain physically fit and learn to practice calmness in tense situations, which has been very helpful when responding to chaotic events. My social skills have been integral to undertaking collaborative responses and communicating with residents when issuing instructions for rescue purposes.

In addition, I’ve received adequate EMT training and the necessary certifications (CPR certification and courses in physiology and anatomy). In 2020, I was part of the team that responded to the 1-hour Tornado in Washburn County. That was an experience that tested our team’s resilience and competency. We were, however, ready. Through commitment, critical thinking, and the use of our training, we responded to the catastrophe and mitigated the number of potential victims from a likely 5000 to 1200 through evacuations.

Throughout my career, I received two honorary awards – a humanitarian award from the mayor of Milwaukee in 2019 for off-duty services and the Serviceman of the Year Award from the ERS (Emergency Response Services) Department in 2020. I’m confident I’d deliver high-level emergency response services to the community of Chicago.

Conclusion and signoff

The last thing is to wrap up your cover letter . Now that you have made your case as to why you are a suitable firefighter, end the letter on a high note. You can include a call to action asking for an interview (the objective of the cover letter). Let the recruiter know you are enthusiastic about the opportunity to work for them and provide them with contact details they can use to reach out to you. Then, add a complimentary closing and your signature.

Always suggest the next course of action, which can be anything from an interview to a follow-up or inviting them to reach out.

Goal: The closing is meant to end the letter on a positive note, just as you started. Also, it outlines an expectation you may have in the process.

Joining the brave servicemen and women at the Chicago Emergency Services Team would be an honor. Allow me to suggest an interview to answer any further questions you may have regarding my application.

Regards, Michael Meyers 

Sample of Firefighter Cover Letter

Providing a valuable resource for aspiring firefighters, this section presents a sample cover letter, serving as a mentor text to assist readers in articulating their qualifications and passion effectively. 

Dear Sergeant Chris Bird,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the firefighter position at the Chicago Fire and Medical Services Response Department. Coming from a family with a deep-rooted history in firefighting, my admiration and respect for this noble profession have only grown with time. I am proud to have followed in my father’s footsteps and now, with five years of experience under my belt, I am eager to bring my expertise and enthusiasm to your esteemed department.

Currently serving with the Milwaukee Emergency Services Department in Wisconsin, my journey began after graduating from Madison Area Technical College in 2016. Over the years, I have been actively involved in over 100 emergency situations, including wildfires, building fires, landslides, severe storms, and flood incidents. My dedication to physical fitness and mental resilience fostered through martial combat training has been instrumental in maintaining calm and efficiency during chaotic situations. My strong social skills have further aided me in collaborative efforts and effective communication with residents during rescue operations.

I hold EMT training certifications, including CPR, and have completed courses in physiology and anatomy. A notable highlight of my career was my involvement in the response team during the 1-hour Tornado in Washburn County in 2020. Our team’s commitment, critical thinking, and training were crucial in reducing the number of potential victims from 5000 to 1200 through prompt evacuations. My efforts have been recognized with a Humanitarian Award from the Mayor of Milwaukee in 2019 and the Serviceman of the Year Award from the ERS Department in 2020.

I am confident that my experience, training, and dedication to emergency response make me a suitable candidate for the position at your department. I am excited about the prospect of joining the team of brave servicemen and women in Chicago and contributing to the safety and well-being of the community.

I would be honored to discuss my application in more detail and am available for an interview at your earliest convenience. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the Chicago Emergency Services Team.

The sample cover letter provided is a useful instructional sample for writing effective cover letters, especially for positions in emergency services or related fields. It exhibits several key elements that serve as a blueprint for others crafting similar letters.

Firstly, the letter opens with a personal connection to the firefighting profession, referencing the writer’s family history in the field. This personal touch is not just engaging but also establishes the writer’s deep-rooted motivation and dedication to the profession. It’s an effective strategy to create an immediate connection with the reader and set the tone for the rest of the letter.

Secondly, the writer skillfully outlines relevant professional experiences and achievements, which is crucial in illustrating competency for the role. The detailed recounting of specific incidents, along with the number of emergencies handled, showcases the writer’s hands-on experience and capability to handle high-stress scenarios. Additionally, mentioning awards and recognitions like the Humanitarian Award and Serviceman of the Year Award further bolsters the writer’s credentials, providing tangible proof of his skills and dedication.

Moreover, the letter emphasizes the applicant’s relevant skills and training, including EMT certifications and knowledge in physiology and anatomy. This detailed listing of qualifications is vital in assuring the employer of the applicant’s preparedness for the specific demands of the firefighting job.

Importantly, the applicant extends beyond just listing experiences and qualifications. He demonstrates key competencies essential for the role, such as physical fitness, mental resilience, and strong social skills. This holistic presentation of his capabilities makes him a more rounded and appealing candidate for the position.

The letter is also notable for its professional structure and clarity. It flows logically, moving from personal motivation to professional experiences and skills, and concludes with the applicant’s eagerness to contribute to the new role. This coherent structure, coupled with concise and clear language, ensures that the reader can easily follow and appreciate the applicant’s profile.

Lastly, the letter concludes with a proactive call to action , expressing eagerness for an interview, and a courteous note of thanks . This not only shows the writer’s professionalism but also his polite and respectful approach, which is important in any job application.

In conclusion, this cover letter serves as an excellent guide for anyone looking to write an impactful and effective cover letter . Its blend of personal storytelling, detailed professional achievements, clear demonstration of relevant skills, professional formatting, and respectful closing makes it a comprehensive template for job applicants, particularly in fields where personal dedication and professional expertise are equally valued.

Do’s and Don’ts

Different writing techniques can be explored to enhance the quality of this cover letter. Below are some things you should do and not do when crafting it:

The do’s include the following:

• Emphasize your ability to work under pressure : You will work under intense pressure as a firefighter in very stressful conditions and circumstances. Therefore, mentioning how you manage to work under pressure, make appropriate and needed decisions and meet tight deadlines is suitable for your letter.
• Consult examples before writing: You must consult examples and research to determine how to structure the entire document. However, do not copy information from these examples; instead, be original and write a letter that reflects you and your qualifications.
• Stay focused: Be objective. Mention the most relevant qualifications as soon as possible. This keeps the recruiter interested. Remember, they often have little time to read multiple letters, so make it worth their time.
• Keep it brief: Ideally, this letter should be a page long. However, recruiters are not stringent on that, and you can include an additional page if necessary. However, make sure the information on the additional page is necessary. The letter shouldn’t exceed two pages.
• Do proofread: Proofread your letter once or twice before passing it on. You can also have someone else review it and highlight areas that need to be reviewed. This allows you to correct any mistakes. It also helps you stay focused and organized before submitting.

The don’ts include the following:

• Repeating your resume: Do not mention everything you mentioned in the resume. Instead, mention one or two achievements and explain how they illustrate your competencies and suitability for the position. Repeating your resume devalues both documents.
• Using generic cover letters: Some candidates mention qualifications such as they are good team players – it’s generic and not project-specific. However, you must match the qualifications to the specific job requirements. Therefore, always customize the letter for each application. This indicates that you reviewed the job posting and shows you understand the issues associated with the respective municipality or county.
• Getting casual while writing: Firefighting is a respectable profession; thus, you don’t want to appear unprofessional in your cover letter. However, as much as you want to appear friendlier, it never reflects well on you. Written communication is a professional medium; use it to its full potential.
• Filling out every white space: White spaces make your letter more legible and visually appealing. Therefore, do not aim to fill out each white space on your letter. Likewise, do not use fragile margins or try not to use paragraphs that are too long (not more than five lines).
• Inconsistency among cover letters and resumes: The cover letter and resume should have some level of consistency in visual style. This makes your application seem more professional and organized. It also makes your document easily distinguishable from those of other applicants. For example, the font you use for both documents should be similar, easy to read, and straightforward.

Wrapping Up

A cover letter for a firefighter is one of the essential tools in your job search. It is your first line of communication with the recruiter and outlines how well you know their job requirements. Therefore, it should be customized to match the requirements. The guide provided in this article covers various aspects of writing it, from planning and drafting to proofreading and submission. In addition, it explains how you can develop an exceptional cover letter that scores you an interview, planning and drafting to proofreading and submission. In addition, it explains how you can develop an exceptional firefighter cover letter that scores you an interview.

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Firefighter Cover Letter Examples

A great firefighter cover letter can help you stand out from the competition when applying for a job. Be sure to tailor your letter to the specific requirements listed in the job description, and highlight your most relevant or exceptional qualifications. The following firefighter cover letter example can give you some ideas on how to write your own letter.

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Cover Letter Example (Text)

Sheila Tielking

(988) 818-8440

[email protected]

Dear Ms. Goretski,

I am writing to express my keen interest in the Firefighter position at Pierce Manufacturing Inc., as advertised. With a solid foundation of five years of firefighting experience at E-ONE, Inc., I have developed a robust skill set and a profound commitment to serving communities in emergency situations. My career thus far has not only been professionally rewarding but has also instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility and pride in what I do.

In my tenure at E-ONE, Inc., I have honed my abilities in emergency response, fire suppression, and rescue operations. My experience extends to providing critical medical assistance as a first responder, conducting fire safety inspections, and participating in community education programs to promote fire prevention and safety awareness. I am adept at operating a range of firefighting equipment and vehicles, and I have consistently demonstrated the ability to quickly adapt to new technology and protocols.

Moreover, my commitment to teamwork, coupled with my excellent communication and interpersonal skills, has enabled me to work effectively with diverse groups of colleagues and community members. I have been commended for my quick decision-making abilities in high-pressure situations and my dedication to continuous learning and professional development.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my expertise to Pierce Manufacturing Inc., a company renowned for its innovation and quality in the production of firefighting apparatus. I am particularly drawn to the prospect of being part of a team that directly contributes to enhancing the safety and efficiency of firefighters through exceptional equipment. I am eager to leverage my practical firefighting experience to provide valuable insights that can inform the design and functionality of your products.

I am confident that my background and passion for the field make me a strong candidate for this role. I am very much looking forward to the opportunity to discuss how my experience and skills will be beneficial to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I hope to have the chance to meet with you to discuss how I can contribute to the continued success and innovation at Pierce Manufacturing Inc.

Warm regards,

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Cover letters

Firefighter Cover Letter Templates (Samples & Tips)

Firefighters are a fundamental part of the community and essential to emergency services. Therefore, government and private recruitment agencies advertise to find new personnel. However, with firefighter positions in high demand, there is a lot of competition, especially from those who already have experience in the field. Therefore, as a first-time applicant, having a well-crafted cover letter for a firefighter job is essential.

A dedicated firefighter cover letter is a document, usually attached to a resume, that briefly summarizes the job applicant’s skills, work experience, and relevant education, making them suitable for the position of a firefighter. The cover letter is written formally and usually addressed to the hiring manager or recruitment agency.

Free Templates

Given below are firefighter cover letter templates:

Necessary Skills Possessed By a Firefighter

As an applicant, for your cover letter to significantly increase your chances of being considered for the firefighter position, there are several things that you must include in it, including the skills that you possess.

Some of the skills that may be required for a firefighter position include:

Hard skills

Some of the hard skills that you may want to include in your cover letter include:

• Operating firefighting and rescue equipment
• Emergency medical services training
• Hazardous material handling
• Occupation safety awareness and knowledge
• Regulations and codes for inspecting residential/commercial buildings
• Firefighting equipment testing and inspection
• Fire safety inspection
• Driving fire fighting vehicles

Soft skills

Some of the soft skills that you may want to include in your cover letter include:

• Teamwork and leadership skills
• Situation awareness
• Effective communication skills
• Ability to deal with emergencies and work well under pressure
• Adaptability
• Problem-solving
• Respect for others
• Leadership skills

Statistical Information: The median income for firefighters, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2020, was $52,500. The BLS report also indicates that in 2010 there were at least 317,200 firefighters employed in the US, which is expected to rise by 8% by 2030.

Significance of a Firefighter Cover Letter

As a firefighter, the role and importance of a cover letter can never be overstated. To excel as an appropriate candidate for the position, you must convince the hiring manager through your cover letter that you are the ideal candidate. In addition, a well-crafted cover letter will demonstrate your abilities to follow instructions and show that you clearly understand the requirements for the position for which you are applying.

A Harris Poll report indicates that 10% of hiring managers have admitted to assessing potential employees based on their cover letters only and that they disregard job applications without cover letters.   

Format of a Firefighter Cover Letter

Applicants need to understand that although the format of a cover letter may vary from one applicant to another, there are essential components that must be included in the letter to enable the hiring manager to assess your level of competence properly.

These basic components include:

Cover letter header

It is common practice for companies to ask for the applicant’s full name, address, and contact information in the cover letter. Therefore, when writing the header, include your full name, telephone number, and email address. This information will help the hiring manager to contact you quickly should they need to.

When writing the cover letter, always remember to include a salutation. The salutation should be simple and begin with a respectful and formal title such as “Dear,” followed by an appropriate name or position title. Next, review the job advertisement to search for the hiring manager’s name and address the letter accordingly. If this information is not included in the advertisement, you may generally address the letter, such as “Dear Recruiting Manager.”

Introduction

The introduction section of your cover letter should include a brief synopsis of the job advertisement, the qualifications required, and why you would be ideal for this position. Your introduction should be written in a formal tone. The introduction should also serve as an opportunity to introduce yourself professionally, convincing the hiring manager that you are worthy of consideration for the position.

Avoid using obvious phrases such as “I am writing to…” or “I would love to work with you…” instead, you may write something like, “As a candidate with 6 years of experience, I am interested in applying for the position of a firefighter at your prestigious organization.”

The body of your cover letter should outline your experience, abilities, and why you are the perfect candidate for the position. When writing this section, remember that it is not only about describing your abilities but also about showcasing your desire to work for that organization. To achieve this, use the body section of your cover letter to tell a story about your dedication and desire for the job.

For example, you may write how much you admire the company because of its reputation or some other reason that makes you interested in working for the organization.

You can divide the body section of your cover letter into two paragraphs, one stating how willing and eager you are to start the job and the other highlighting your skills, educational background, and experiences with the position you are applying for.

Conclusion and Sign-off

A cover letter is about convincing the hiring manager that you are the perfect candidate for the job. To achieve this, use the conclusion section of your cover letter to include a “call to action” and request an interview with the hiring manager. This section should be written politely and professionally.

Including an appropriate closing statement in the sign-off section is also advisable.

End the cover letter by including a professional closing remark such as “Sincerely,” “Best Regards,” or “Sincerely.”

Fact Check: To be hired as a firefighter, your application must fall in the top 1-2% category. This translates to about 1-in-100 or a 1% chance of getting hired. For this reason, applicants are advised to read job campaigns and position descriptions carefully to increase their chances of proceeding to the next phase of the hiring process.

What to Include?

As a firefighter to prosper, you must write the cover letter in a way that catches the hiring manager’s attention. The cover letter should include specific words and phrases that will help you effectively highlight your skills and abilities.

Below are some of the things that you should include in the cover letter:

Paint a picture of yourself (introduction)

The cover letter should clearly describe who you are and what you can bring to the company. You need to portray yourself in clear terms. Include information that would help the employer view you as an asset to the organization. For example, you can use impressive accomplishments to highlight the skills and abilities that make you the ideal candidate for the position.

Below are examples of what to write and what not to:

Bad example:

“I am applying for a job that requires a high level of creativity, and I have been in the industry for 20 years. I hope to use my abilities and skills to contribute to the company’s success.”

Good example:

“While looking for new career opportunities, I aim to utilize my 20 years of experience in the industry to help my co-workers and new firefighters. I am a creative individual with a record of accomplishment of creating solutions when fighting fires.”

The second example is better than the above examples because it provides specifics about what you can bring to the organization.

Emphasize your ability to work under pressure

To highlight your ability to work under pressure, highlight how you have successfully managed difficult situations in the past. Avoid writing about things you would be unable to do or accomplish immediately.

See the examples given below:

“I have always shown initiative, and initiative is the most important trait for a successful leader.”

“While working at my former company, my team faced several difficult situations when extinguishing a huge fire. I was able to help by acting decisively and responsibly in these situations, which significantly impacted my team’s success. My leadership skills were not only recognized by my boss, but also by my immediate colleagues.”

As shown above, the first example does not highlight your qualities; it lacks specificity and is very general. However, the second sentence conveys a more specific message about why you are good at managing under pressure.

Share your success stories

When composing the cover letter, a good way is to start by telling a story about your core values and life experiences that have prepared you for this position. For example, since you are applying for a firefighter position, you can highlight your experience working in the fire service by sharing how you’ve responded to emergency calls and how this has prepared you for the job. This would show that you are ready to handle extreme situations and participate effectively.

“ I am a very creative person with creative problem-solving abilities. I have solved many problems that have presented themselves at work and home so far.”

“One of the things that make me the most effective is my ability to handle pressure. I have always demonstrated a positive attitude and approach towards any problem that has presented itself at work or in my personal life.”

In the above example, it is not enough to say that you are creative; you need to give details about why being creative will help you. Do not focus on problems but focus on situations where you have demonstrated your creativity and leadership skills .

Conclusion and sign off

After sharing your experiences or the qualities that you feel will make you an asset to the company, conclude by saying that you would like to discuss further and ask the hiring manager to contact you.

Reiterate why you would be suitable for this position and invite the hiring manager to initiate contact, as shown in the examples below:

“I hope you will consider my application, and I hope I can be part of your team soon.”

“I would like to discuss my qualifications further with you, and I look forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience. I am available at 212-555-1234 to discuss my qualifications further.”

Firefighter Cover Letter Template

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State ZIP]

[Phone Number]

Dear Mr./Mrs. [Hiring Manager]:

As a seasoned firefighter with a proven track record of success, I am applying to the ___________ [Fire Department] in your area to become a part of your team. Your department is one that I have admired for many years. I know that you are looking for individuals with the skills and experience necessary to help your department continue to operate at its highest level.

I am confident that my work ethic, leadership, and strong communication skills will allow me to contribute to your department in a meaningful way. I have been well-trained in all aspects of the fire service and would like to share some of my experiences as an applicant.

As a result of my ________ [periods/board/training years] of service, I have observed that I can:

Establish positive working relationships with fellow firefighters, community members, and law enforcement personnel by working together towards our common goal.

Take charge during emergencies and provide leadership to minimize the risk and maximize effectiveness.

Work with others to develop practical solutions to problems while maximizing the use of available resources.

Present solutions effectively using various presentation techniques, including verbal, written, and visual aids.

Two of my greatest strengths are my __________ [list two strengths], which will allow me to contribute significantly to your department.

I am available at ___________ [Your phone number/email] to discuss my qualifications further. I also look forward to discussing this opportunity with you in person.

[Your Signature]

[Your Typed Name]

Firefighter Cover Letter Sample

555 S. Maple Ave.

Boston, MA 02116

(617) 456-7834

[email protected]

Dear Casper Schmeichel,

Your department is currently seeking qualified applicants for a full-time firefighter position. I am excited about the possibility of joining your team and would like to be considered for this opportunity.

I have been a volunteer firefighter for the past (3 ½ ) three and a half years. Working alongside others taught me the importance of camaraderie and teamwork in an emergency and building my physical and mental stamina. Throughout my time in the field, I have gained exceptional leadership skills, which I believe make me a perfect candidate for your open position.

Working as a team leader has taught me to be a confident, effective leader. I can delegate tasks and responsibilities while working as part of a team. I am also confident in my abilities to step up when necessary and serve as a leader that others can follow.

I know I would bring a strong work ethic and positive attitude to your department. I’m sure that I will be an asset to your team and continue to learn from and teach the other firefighters on your team.

I look forward to hearing from you. For the time being, you can contact me at (617) 456-7834 or via Email at [email protected] .

I appreciate your time and consideration.

Do’s and Don’ts

Remember to consider specific tips when writing your cover letter, as discussed below:

As a firefighter, ensure that your cover letter projects and appeals to the hiring manager by adopting the following certain factors:

• Include a brief outline: Outline how your skills/qualifications match the requirements of the position and how you will benefit the company, department, and team if hired.
• Consult example cover letters: Finding the right words, format, and points to include in your cover letter can sometimes be very challenging, especially if it is your first time applying for a firefighter position. Therefore, you should consider looking at examples from various sources and observing the wording and structure to help you craft an even better cover letter.
• Stick with a one-page length: A cover letter’s main aim is to invite the hiring manager to review your resume and other application materials, which contain detailed information about you, your career background, and your skills. Therefore, consider keeping your cover letter to a maximum of one page, as a significant amount of information will already be presented on your resume.
• Use consistent formatting style for resume and cover letter: When applying for a job, you must present yourself in a distinguished manner. Consider using the same formatting as your resume in your cover letter. This will make it easy for the hiring manager to review your documents and show professionalism.
• Edit your letter: Even if your writing and formatting are excellent, it will be unlikely to get the hiring manager’s attention if it lacks the necessary appeal and is poorly organized. So, you must edit your cover letter as often as necessary. Also, you must make sure your letter is free from any grammatical or syntax errors.

When writing your cover letter, here are the factors that you should avoid:

• Don’t repeat your resume: Your cover letter is a significant part of the application process, and you should spend time and effort to make it look professional and appealing. However, your resume will detail all the information about you, your education, and your career history. Therefore, avoid repeating any of the content from your resume in your cover letter.
• Don’t rewrite sample cover letters: If you are applying for a firefighter position, you will likely not be the only applicant. So, avoid rewriting a sample cover letter, as this may not demonstrate a professional image.
• Don’t be casual: In your cover letter, avoid being informal, as this will affect you as an applicant. Also, avoid being overly formal. Instead, opt for a tone that is professional yet friendly and avoid being too casual when addressing the hiring manager.
• Too little white spaces: Like your resume, your cover letter should also be readable and well organized, with sufficient white spaces. Also, avoid using too many fonts or colors in your cover letter, as this may distract the hiring manager.

Did You Know? The professional fire departments protect 68% of the US population, with 1,216,600 firefighters serving in 27,228 fire departments and responding to emergencies from 58,150 fire stations. The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) represents the union firefighters.

Key Takeaways

• As a firefighter, your cover letter is a vital part of the job application process as it allows you to formally introduce yourself and highlight your skills, experience, and achievements.
• Addressing your cover letter to someone specific will help show that you researched the company and the role you are applying for and demonstrate that you have applied with due care and attention.
• Avoid providing the same information in your resume and cover letter or using generic phrases or samples.
• Keep your cover letter to a maximum of one page in length, and ensure not to repeat any of the content from your resume.
• Use consistent formatting for your cover letter and resume.
• Ensure that your cover letter is formatted professionally and free from grammatical or formatting errors.

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