Firefighters

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 3 (10%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 2 (7%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 25 (83%)

• Assess fires and situations and report conditions to superiors to receive instructions, using two-way radios.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Maintain contact with fire dispatchers at all times to notify them of the need for additional firefighters and supplies, or to detail any difficulties encountered.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Prepare written reports that detail specifics of fire incidents.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Inspect fire sites after flames have been extinguished to ensure that there is no further danger.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Inform and educate the public on fire prevention.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Rescue victims from burning buildings, accident sites, and water hazards.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Dress with equipment such as fire-resistant clothing and breathing apparatus.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Move toward the source of a fire, using knowledge of types of fires, construction design, building materials, and physical layout of properties.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Respond to fire alarms and other calls for assistance, such as automobile and industrial accidents.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Create openings in buildings for ventilation or entrance, using axes, chisels, crowbars, electric saws, or core cutters.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Drive and operate fire fighting vehicles and equipment.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Position and climb ladders to gain access to upper levels of buildings, or to rescue individuals from burning structures.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Select and attach hose nozzles, depending on fire type, and direct streams of water or chemicals onto fires.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Operate pumps connected to high-pressure hoses.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Collaborate with other firefighters as a member of a firefighting crew.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Patrol burned areas after fires to locate and eliminate hot spots that may restart fires.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Collaborate with police to respond to accidents, disasters, and arson investigation calls.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Participate in fire drills and demonstrations of fire fighting techniques.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Maintain knowledge of current firefighting practices by participating in drills and by attending seminars, conventions, and conferences.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Participate in physical training activities to maintain a high level of physical fitness.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Protect property from water and smoke, using waterproof salvage covers, smoke ejectors, and deodorants.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Salvage property by removing broken glass, pumping out water, and ventilating buildings to remove smoke.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Orient self in relation to fire, using compass and map, and collect supplies and equipment dropped by parachute.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Clean and maintain fire stations and fire fighting equipment and apparatus.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Inspect buildings for fire hazards and compliance with fire prevention ordinances, testing and checking smoke alarms and fire suppression equipment as necessary.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Take action to contain any hazardous chemicals that could catch fire, leak, or spill.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Extinguish flames and embers to suppress fires, using shovels or engine- or hand-driven water or chemical pumps.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Administer first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation to injured persons or provide emergency medical care such as basic or advanced life support.Little or no AI speed-up
• Search to locate fire victims.Little or no AI speed-up
• Train new employees to control and suppress fires.Little or no AI speed-up

Questions about firefighters and AI