Burning Desire: Metro Fire Recruits Go Through Live Training

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) - CBS13's Ron Jones went inside an intense fire training with Metro Fire to see firsthand to what conditions firefighters are subject.

One of the biggest threats to any firefighter is the flashover, an explosion of hot smoke and flames when doors and windows are closed and oxygen is suddenly introduced. The fire can get up to more than 1,000 degrees.

In 2011, two San Francisco firefighters were the victims of a flashover.

"To myself and other recruits, it's the greatest job in the world," said one recruit.

On Thursday, young Metro Fire recruits were learning to recognize the behavior of dangerous flames.

Fire trainers say flashovers erupt faster today than they did in the 70s due to the introduction of more plastics and lighter construction materials. What used to take 20 minutes to ignite, now only takes seconds.

"We can never get enough training because every situation is different," said one trainer.

Metro firefighters took CBS13 through their obstacle course, which will really get your heart racing.

As he went through the course, Jones was told to stay as low as he could, because the fire was going to be rising and heating up quickly.

"I can feel the heat on my shoulders. I can feel it around my head," said Jones of the experience.

As for the recruits, they live for this.

"It's an exciting career and it took a long road to get here," a recruit said.

The training is meant to simulate real life scenarios. It's important for the young firefighters to learn to control their breathing, so not to deplete their oxygen supply.

"We evaluate each recruit based upon what happens out here," the trainer said.

However, not all recruits make the cut.

"They could be cut from the academy if they are having serious issues," said another trainer.

There are 36 recruits currently going through Metro Fire's academy. Those that make the cut will graduate June 28.