Many people picture firefighters rushing into burning buildings every day. In reality, modern first responders in South Florida handle mostly medical calls and complex prevention work. Host Larry Port sits down with Marc Juliano, a veteran Firefighter/Paramedic and current Fire Safety Inspector with Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue.

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Marc breaks down the truth about the job: from the 24-hours-on, 48-hours-off schedule to the "second family" dynamic at the station. He explains why 88% of calls are medical, the operational toll of the opioid epidemic, and how fire codes prevent tragedies before they start. You will learn exactly how to enter this field, the specific schooling required, and why being late is the ultimate cardinal sin in this line of work.

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About Marc Juliano

Marc Juliano is a Firefighter/Paramedic and Fire Safety Inspector for Deerfield Beach Fire-Rescue, contracted through the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO). With over 20 years in the service, he spent 16 years "on the trucks" responding to emergency calls before moving into fire prevention and code compliance.

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What We Cover

1. The operational reality of the 24-hours-on, 48-hours-off shift schedule.
2. Why 88% of modern fire rescue calls medically related rather than structural fires?
3. The "Risk a lot to save a lot" philosophy regarding property versus life safety.
4. How a "Kelly Day" works and how firefighters stack vacation time for long breaks.
5. Transitioning from riding the trucks to the preventative side of Fire Safety Inspection.
6. The station dynamic: Grocery shopping, cooking, and training as a "second family."
7. Educational requirements: EMT school, Fire Academy, and Paramedic certification.
8. The impact of the opioid epidemic and Fentanyl on first responder resources.

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Resources Mentioned

1. NFPA (National Fire Protection Association)
2. Chicago Fire (TV Show)
3. Backdraft (Movie)