It’s no secret that a firefighting job can be tough and demanding but did you know you can turn your skills and free time into some extra bucks? Let’s take a look at some of the best side businesses perfect for firefighters like you.
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1. Personal Training
Firefighters are no strangers to physical fitness, it’s a significant part of the job. You can take advantage of this by offering personal fitness training sessions. You already know how to stay fit, so why not share that knowledge with others? You can market your services to people of all ages and fitness levels, from those just starting out, to seasoned gym rats.
Working as a personal trainer is a solid side gig because you can set your rates and choose your hours. Plus, sharing the gift of health and fitness with others can be greatly rewarding.
Pro tip: Get certified. Though it’s not always mandatory, having a personal fitness training certification can legitimize your services and increase your earning potential. There are many programs out there, so do your research and choose the one that’s right for you.
2. Handyman Services
Do you find satisfaction in fixing things around your house? Can you turn your hand to plumbing, carpentry, or electrical work? If yes, starting a service as a handyman could be an exciting option for you. Firefighters typically have physical strength and a problem-solving mindset which are crucial in this field. Plus, it’s easy to plan around your shifts.
As people’s lives get busier, many are willing to pay others to handle these types of tasks. From fixing leaking pipes to assembling furniture, the jobs vary. This side gig can be a great way to earn some serious cash. Also, when it comes to tools, you probably already have what you need to get started.
3. Renting out Equipment or Tools
Got a shed full of unused equipment or tools? Why let them collect dust when you could make extra money passively? Firefighters often acquire a range of useful tools for their job and personal use. When these tools are not in use, renting them out to people who need them could be a good way to earn some extra cash.
You’ll be surprised at how many folks out there need a tool for a one-time project and would gladly rent it rather than buy it. You just need to advertise your toolkit on local forums, community pages, or platforms such as Fat Llama. Remember to price your items fairly – high enough to make a profit, but not so high that people choose to buy the tool instead!
4. Online Surveys
Surfing the internet and answering questions. Sound too easy? Well, trust us, it’s a decent way to add some extra bucks to your pocket. Online surveys might not make you ultra-rich, but wouldn’t it be pretty cool to get paid just for sharing your point of view?
These surveys are conducted by diverse companies to get user feedback and opinions on their products or services. So, basically what you’re doing is helping them make better business decisions, and in return, you earn money.
Take note, though. You need to put out genuine opinions – it’s not about saying everything is fabulous just to finish the survey. Some sites require you to pre-qualify for certain surveys, based on your personal traits or interests. Here are some legit survey sites to help you get started:
- Swagbucks – easy to navigate, with a range of surveys on different topics.
- Branded Surveys – a fast payout, credited straight to your PayPal account.
- Survey Junkie – high reputation, with quick surveys for fast earning.
Now, you’re good to go. Share your thoughts, and pocket the cash!
5. Offer Home Cleaning Services
Firefighters know the value of cleanliness more than anyone else. This makes home cleaning services a suitable side job. Plus, no special training or equipment is needed – just roll up your sleeves and get to work!
You can set your own schedule, choose who to work with, and most importantly, earn some solid extra cash. So consider offering home cleaning services. Folks love a clean house and firefighters are known for their discipline and strength – a perfect match!
6. Provide painting services
You can use your free time to brush up on your painting skills and turn it into a money-making gig. People are always looking to refresh their homes or offices, and this gives you the opportunity to offer your painting services.
You’ll need a few things to kick-start this side gig. First, invest in quality painting brushes, rollers, paint trays, and tape. Don’t forget safety gear like gloves and goggles too. Afterward, market your skills via local ad boards or online marketplaces like Craigslist.
If you’re just starting, consider offering your services at a lower price to attract customers.
With every stroke and color selection, you not only improve the aesthetics of a place but also add some dollars to your wallet.
7. Become a home inspector
Ever considered using your knowledge of safety standards and building codes to make some extra income? Becoming a home inspector could be your ticket. Home inspectors are critical in the home-buying process. They ensure a property is safe, up-to-code, and a sound investment for prospective buyers. Plus, this job gives you the chance to work independently and set your own schedule.
Getting started might require some specific training and certifications depending on your location. But guess what? The pay-off can be significant with a median salary exceeding $58,000 in the U.S. according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Home inspections can be a solid side gig for any firefighter looking to flex their code comprehension skills.
8. Home Renovation
Investing time and effort in home renovation can yield significant returns. It involves upgrading old, damaged, or outdated structures, which can be a rewarding and profitable hustle for firefighters. Plus, with your strength and physical fitness, tasks like heavy lifting and extensive work won’t be a problem.
Basic knowledge of construction and tools is helpful. However, thanks to the internet, you can learn new skills on the go.
The profits you can yield from this venture will depend on the size and scale of the projects you undertake. However, it is safe to say, they can be quite lucrative with the right amount of attention and effort.
9. Rent Your Space
If you’re lucky enough to have a spare room or property lying idle, then renting it out can be a real money-maker. You don’t have to do much, just list it online and you’ve turned your empty space into some serious bank deposits! Platforms like Airbnb can become your best friend. Renting spare rooms can work even for those living in smaller towns. Allow your bored room to make some money!
Of course, you need to ensure that the place is clean and comfy for your potential guests. After all, no one wants to stay in a pigsty, right? You might need to put in a little effort or even invest a small amount to make the place comfortable. But trust us, it’ll be worth it. Guests will leave positive reviews, which will attract more bookings, adding to your side income.
Also, if you’re comfortable with pets, then allowing them could give your listing an edge over others.
10. Teaching at a Local Fire Academy
With hands-on experience in the field, you can provide real-world examples and practical knowledge that textbooks alone can’t offer. Many academies and EMT schools look for instructors with first-hand experience to teach courses on fire safety, emergency medical response, and other critical skills.
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Peter is a serial entrepreneur and founder of DollarSanity blog who created and ran a variety of businesses. You can learn more about him at the DollarSanity About Me page. He’s been featured in the Washington Post, Yahoo Finance and MSN Money.