First, they had to pass a grueling physical exam. Then, 15 of them were chosen to join the department. Next, it's off to the academy for training, where they learn the ins-and-outs of firefighting.
They're taught everything, from how to put on the gear, what each piece of equipment is for and of course, how to use it.
"The theories are all one thing, but to actually put it into action is another," said new firefighter Philip Stein.
Training has evolved over the years to battle a different kind of fire.
"Your old wooden furniture from the 70s is like a campfire," said Capt. Pat Hines. "Nowadays the couches the chairs are made out of plastic. Plastic is nothing more than solid oil, solid gasoline. You have 120 seconds to cool the fuel or the entire room is going to flash over. That's not survivable for us. You have about 5 seconds to get out or you're going to die."
Being prepared for that situation is vital. That's why new recruits train with the real thing. I wanted to see first hand what these recruits were going through. So, I was given the chance to suit up and go inside a training room. As I made my way inside, I struggled with the weight of the gear.
At the center of the room was a fire that sent the temperature soaring. Underneath my gear my skin prickled with heat. The smoke clouded my vision, and despite being in a controlled environment, panic set it. Thankfully, I was handed a thermal imaging camera that let me see through all the smoke.
It was just a small glimpse into what the rookies will face once they leave the academy. Perhaps the most important thing they'll take with them - trust in one another. Something the veterans say they'll need in a dangerous line of work.
"There's always learning. Twenty-five years into it, and I'm still learning," said Deputy Chief Frank Nerney. "And hopefully they'll never think that they know it all."
After 14 weeks, the recruits graduated the academy in early November. Next they'll get their assigned stations throughout the city. If you see them, be sure to offer them your congratulations.
