What does it mean to describe certain firefighters as "career" firefighters?

Describing certain firefighters as "career" firefighters refers to those who are employed in a paid, full-time capacity. This designation implies that their firefighting duties constitute their primary occupation, and they typically receive a salary and benefits associated with full-time employment. Career firefighters are often involved in a wide range of activities beyond just responding to fires, such as training, fire prevention education, and community outreach, which underscore their professional commitment to their roles.

The other options primarily focus on aspects that do not fully encapsulate the essence of a career firefighter. While being paid is part of the definition, it does not clarify the full-time commitment. Length of service, such as being with the department for 12 years or more, indicates experience but does not define a career firefighter’s role or employment status. Training methods, whether on-the-job or in a formal academy, speak to the path taken to become a firefighter but do not specifically categorize firefighters as career or otherwise.