Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Certification
Software
Languages
Interests
Work Preference
Timeline
Generic
Jeremy  Gruca

Jeremy Gruca

Summary

Proven leader in fire safety and emergency response, adept at Fire Risk Assessment and fostering Teamwork and Collaboration. At Bristol Kendall Fire Department, I enhanced community safety protocols and reduced fire hazards, leveraging expertise in Fire Code Knowledge and Incident Command System. Demonstrated exceptional stress tolerance and resilience, achieving significant improvements in emergency preparedness and response efficiency. Highly motivated Firefighter with in-depth knowledge of safely suppressing fires. Thinks quickly under pressure and remains calm in stressful situations. Offering 15 years of experience in efficiently responding to fire and EMS alarms. Proficient performing emergency diagnostic and treatment procedures. Confident Firefighter works effectively as part of cohesive team. Highly trained individual with great mechanical aptitude and background in medical response and fire suppression. Handles issues quickly and resolves conflicts successfully.

Overview

15
15
years of professional experience
10
10
Certification

Work History

Fire Inspector

Bristol Kendall Fire Department
08.2024 - Current
  • Checked various multi-family residential and business construction sites to determine fire code compliance.
  • Prepared recommendations to eliminate potential fire and safety hazards at establishments.
  • Assisted in businesses, healthcare and educational facilities by writing and maintaining fire safety and evacuation plans.
  • Reviewed new fire safety construction documents for extinguisher placement, exit locations and standpipe locations.
  • Examined fire sites to gather evidence such as glass, metal fragments, charred wood and accelerant residue.
  • Inspected physical condition of automatic sprinkler systems to report conditions and suggest repairs.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge on relevant codes and standards, attending conferences and training sessions regularly.
  • Enhanced public safety with regular communication to property owners and managers on fire prevention methods.
  • Located fire code violations and recommended actions to bring properties into compliance.
  • Educated community members on fire safety practices through presentations and workshops.

Professional Firefighter

Bristol Kendall Fire Department
09.2022 - Current
  • Advanced firefighting skills through continuous professional development, attending workshops and conferences relevant to the field.
  • Improved team efficiency with regular training sessions and drills to maintain optimal performance during emergencies.
  • Enhanced community safety by responding to various emergency situations, including fires, medical emergencies, and hazardous materials incidents.
  • Demonstrated strong leadership skills while serving as a crew leader on multiple occasions, guiding team members to complete tasks efficiently and safely.
  • Supported fellow firefighters during high-pressure situations by maintaining clear communication channels and offering necessary guidance when needed.
  • Maintained operational readiness by conducting daily checks on firefighting equipment, ensuring all gear was in proper working order.
  • Efficiently extinguished structural fires using specialized tools and equipment designed for specific types of blazes.
  • Educated the public on fire prevention measures through presentations and demonstrations at local schools and community events.
  • Coordinated with local agencies to develop emergency plans and participated in joint training exercises to ensure seamless cooperation during real-world events.
  • Contributed to department improvements through participation in internal committees focused on policy development and procedural updates.
  • Engaged in physical fitness activities regularly to maintain peak performance levels required for emergency response situations.
  • Collaborated with other first responders to provide comprehensive support during crisis situations.
  • Streamlined department operations by assisting with administrative tasks, such as managing schedules and maintaining records.
  • Reduced property damage by quickly assessing the scene and implementing strategic firefighting techniques.
  • Conducted thorough inspections of commercial and residential properties for fire code compliance, reducing potential hazards.
  • Promoted a positive image of the fire department by interacting professionally with the public and other agencies during calls for service.
  • Participated in community outreach programs to raise awareness of fire prevention and safety measures.
  • Evaluated situation at emergency sites to determine and execute most effective methods for saving life and property.
  • Responded to emergency medical calls to perform lifesaving procedures and other emergency medical services.
  • Drove and operated structural pumpers, tankers, ladders, and service vehicles to aid in rescue operations.
  • Documented emergency calls and equipment maintenance to enable tracking history and maintain accurate records.
  • Trained new firefighters to comply with safety protocols and equipment usage.

Volunteer

Sandwich Fire Protection District
11.2009 - 11.2021
  • Assisted with special events and programs.
  • Maintained clean, neat, and operational facilities to serve program needs.
  • Supported engaging, fun, and smooth-running events by helping with organization and planning.
  • Used strong interpersonal communication skills to convey information to others.
  • Communicated with staff members to stay informed about volunteer opportunities and events.
  • Represented organization positively and professionally while providing community with much-needed services.
  • Mentored new volunteers, fostering a supportive and inclusive team environment.
  • Promoted environmental awareness with educational workshops and hands-on activities.
  • Boosted fundraising efforts, securing valuable donations through targeted campaigns.
  • Strengthened volunteer team effectiveness by providing training sessions.
  • Improved public safety, participating in community watch programs.

Paramedic

Westmont Fire
09.2019 - 08.2021
  • Delivered advanced cardiac life support (ACLS), basic life support (BLS), and pediatric advanced life support (PALS) under pressure.
  • Delivered compassionate care to patients with a variety of medical emergencies, including cardiac arrests, traumas, strokes, and respiratory distress.
  • Improved patient outcomes by providing timely and accurate assessments, treatments, and interventions.
  • Worked en-route to hospital to prepare patients for arrival or surgery and control wounds.
  • Documented patient care accurately using electronic medical records software according to regulatory guidelines for billing purposes and continuous quality improvement initiatives.
  • Developed and maintained rapport with coworkers and local hospital staff to facilitate efficient patient care.
  • Enhanced team efficiency through clear communication and collaboration during high-pressure emergency situations.
  • Assessed patient condition through physical and verbal exams and by collecting information from others at scene.

Volunteer Firefighter

Newark Fire Department
02.2017 - 09.2019
  • Enhanced teamwork among the crew by participating in regular training sessions, drills, and exercises.
  • Collaborated closely with fellow firefighters to ensure smooth communication and coordination during emergencies.
  • Assisted in reducing property damage during fires with strategic placement of ladders, hoses, and other firefighting equipment.
  • Administered first aid and conducted emergent response management.
  • Minimized risk of accidents on scene by following established protocols regarding traffic control management.
  • Strengthened firefighter skills through ongoing professional development opportunities such as attending workshops or conferences related to the field.
  • Upheld high levels of readiness while on call, ensuring timely response to any potential emergencies.

Education

No Degree - Fire Science

Waubonsee Community College
Sugar Grove, IL

No Degree - Paramedic

Joliet Junior College
Joliet, IL
08.2019

Skills

    Fire Risk Assessment

    Emergency Response Planning

    Fire alarm systems

    Incident Command System

    Fire Prevention Strategies

    Hazardous Materials Identification

    Fire Code Knowledge

    Inspection Report Writing

    Life safety evaluations

    Fire suppression equipment

    Teamwork and Collaboration

    Structural Firefighting

    Stress tolerance and resilience

    Documentation And Reporting

    Advanced Life Support

    Critical decision-making skills

    Direct Patient Care

Affiliations

  • IAFF Local 5386
  • AFFI

Certification

  • Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) - American Heart Association.
  • Bloodborne Pathogens Training Certificate – Occupational Safety and Health Administration or approved providers.
  • Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) - American Red Cross or American Heart Association.
  • Incident Command System Certifications 100/200/700/800 – Federal Emergency Management Agency's Independent Study Program.
  • Paramedic Certification - Illinois department of public health
  • Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers (BLS) - American Heart Association.
  • Fire Inspector I Certifications – International Code Council.
  • Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations Certification - Pro Board Fire Service Professional Qualifications System (ProBoard).
  • Emergency Vehicle Operator Course Certificate– Various States' Departments of Transportation.
  • Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) - Illinois department of public health.
  • Firefighter II Certification (FF II) - International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC).

Software

Microsoft word

Microsoft excel

Powerpoint

Languages

English
Native or Bilingual

Interests

Camping

Golf

Travel

Cars and automotive repair

Work Preference

Work Type

Full TimeContract Work

Work Location

On-SiteRemote

Important To Me

Work-life balanceCompany CulturePersonal development programsPaid time offPaid sick leave

Timeline

Fire Inspector

Bristol Kendall Fire Department
08.2024 - Current

Professional Firefighter

Bristol Kendall Fire Department
09.2022 - Current

Paramedic

Westmont Fire
09.2019 - 08.2021

Volunteer Firefighter

Newark Fire Department
02.2017 - 09.2019

Volunteer

Sandwich Fire Protection District
11.2009 - 11.2021

No Degree - Fire Science

Waubonsee Community College

No Degree - Paramedic

Joliet Junior College
Jeremy Gruca