Traffic accidents, plane crashes, flood rescue missions and burning buildings are some of the extreme situations active firemen face every day. Firefighters work under severe conditions, have to be flexible and motivated, not only as an individual, but they also have to demonstrate team spirit. Firemen need to take orders without attitude, always stay composed, even during the most stressful and dangerous situations, but most of all, they have to be empathic toward others and be supportive at all times.

The duties of professional or volunteer firefighters are plentiful, from answering the phone to operating pumps on fire trucks and fire hydrants; this includes manning hoses and spanner wrenches and knowing the optimal amount of water pressure and volume. Proper training also entails understanding all types of fire extinguishers and their usage. Furthermore, firemen are bound to learn the mechanical and manual operations of fire truck ladders and need to be able to determine what force is needed to get into a burning building, and if it is safe to enter.  They also have to be knowledgeable about ventilation and how to increase airflow by opening doors and windows, yet all without comprising the scene. Without these vital skills a fireman, his co-workers and innocent bystanders can get hurt.

Becoming a fireman can open the door to a fascinating career. Every day will be different because no emergency situation will be alike. Some days may be easier than others, but they will all be demanding, requiring tremendous physical and psychological input, something the members of the Fire Brigade in Vukovar, a city and municipality in eastern Croatia, know all about. These heroes not only save lives, but also help in the restoration of their community, which is still recovering from the Battle of Vukovar, a fatal fight which took place during the War of Independence. With few men to spare and outdated equipment, these firemen do not give up and prove every day again how devoted they are to their profession and their community!