Dating a fireman can seem to be heroic, exciting, fun, and full of adventure. Yes, those are all true. But, before you start dating one, there are a couple things you need to know about what it truly means to be dating a fireman.
1. It’s A Real Brotherhood
No matter the time of day or night, if he/she gets an SOS call from a fellow brother or sister, don’t be shocked if they are out the door faster than when you need their help with the groceries. Once in the brotherhood, they’re forever in the brotherhood- you cannot get offended when the department comes first.
2. R-E-S-P-E-C-T
When meeting the members of the firehouse, one should be completely aware that you’re not just meeting his friends, but you’re meeting his family. Having respect while in and around the firehouse is extremely important to uphold, since you are, after all, a guest in their house. Don’t over step the invitation of being at the firehouse, don’t disrespect any of the members, and remember they all (yes, every single member) have to sign off on the relationship too!
3. The Pager
Anyone who has seen or knows a firefighter knows that the pager is ALWAYS on his/her hip no matter what the occasion. Oh- and once it goes off, good luck not jumping from the high pitch sound it gives off. Whether you are asleep or just chilling watching TV, that pager is like a mating call to them- they hear it and they’re gone.
4. Nicknames
Almost everyone at the firehouse has a nickname, whether it’s their last name, a characteristic about them, or a funny memory that will always be held against them. When you first start hanging around the firehouse you will notice very few of the members have normal names. And when you call someone with a nickname by their given name, you’ll get weird looks as if they have no idea who you’re talking about.
5. Your name
Until you get to know the other members, you will always be referred to as (insert firefighter’s name/nickname)'s girlfriend. But don’t stress too much- it’s just a way of them keeping track who is with who and it’s a lot easier for them to reference you this way. Once you have gained their respect and have stuck around long enough, you’ll eventually start to hear your actual name being used.
6. The Inner Firefighter
It doesn’t matter if you are driving down the street, in a restaurant, or even in the middle of no where- they will point out all the different fire stations in that area and comment on the different types, models, and year of the trucks they see. Don’t even start with them seeing or smelling smoke, they’ll tell you exactly what is burning to have produced a particular smell or color of smoke. You’d be surprised how many different types there are. For the first few months, you’ll think something is wrong… but after that you’ll just chalk it up to being part of his/her inner firefighter.
7. Firefighter Mode
Just like how doctors can flip a switch on when they see someone who needs medical attention, firefighters have the same switch, but it can be triggered a lot easier. From helping someone load bags into their car, helping someone cross the street, searching for lost animals, or just helping someone who is in distress, your firefighter will probably have an inkling to help anyone who needs it. Quick tip- you should always plan to leave the house earlier than normal before you need to be somewhere, just to schedule in the possibility these occurrences could happen.
8. If The Pager Is Turned Off, You’re In
The pager is their lifeline to the firehouse, so it’s a rare occurrence to see it turned off. But if he/she does switch the pager off, you’re in. Wherever you are, that’s a sign he doesn’t want to be distracted by anything and wants to devote his complete and undivided attention to you. It’s a good sign- don’t worry! Just make sure to cherish these moments, as they are few and far between.
9. No Matter The Firehouse, They Are All Brothers
When you visit another town, city, or even state, any firehouse will always take in another firefighter, even if they are just visiting. The brotherhood knows no borders. And if one is in desperate need of help, firefighters from towns you may have never heard of will help. Never underestimate the power of the brotherhood.
10. Brotherhood Is Not Just Among The Brothers
Everyone knows everyone, and everyone looks out for everyone. This can include their girlfriends, wives, kids, grandchildren - anyone. It’s a large family that can laugh with you, cry with you, and be there for you no matter what. Once you feel the love and absolute dedication from anyone involved with the firehouse, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
