Firefighters use a variety of common phrases, some standard and some slang, to communicate during emergencies and in everyday situations. These phrases help them coordinate actions, understand each other’s roles, and maintain a sense of camaraderie.
Common Standard Terms:
- “Mayday”: Used when a firefighter is in immediate danger and requires assistance.
- “MCI”: Refers to a Mass Casualty Incident.
- “Mutual aid”: When neighboring fire departments assist each other.
- “Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta”: Designates the sides of a building for coordinated response.
- “Search and rescue”: Refers to the process of locating and assisting victims.
- “Incident Command System (ICS)”: A standardized, on-scene, all-hazards incident management approach.
- “Truckies and Steppies”: Slang for firefighters on the truck and those on the engine, respectively.
- “Brain bucket and lid”: Slang for helmet.
- “Humping hose”: Slang for moving or carrying hoses.
Common Slang Terms:
- “Stretchin'”: Responding to and working on a fire, particularly in Detroit slang.
- “Jobs”: East coast slang for fires.
- “Pipe/Line”: Slang for the hose.
- “Tip”: Slang for the nozzle of the hose.
- “Jake”: Has varied meanings, from a poor firefighter to a skilled one, depending on location.
- “Installed a skylight”: Slang for cutting a hole in a roof.
- “CHAOS (Chief Has Arrived on Scene)”: A humorous acronym.
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