填空题

A fire is always exciting and dangerous. People crowd around to watch the smoke, the flames, and the fire fighters, who risk their lives to save others’’ lives. Fire fighters are in danger of burns and smoke injuries. (36) ________, they save thousands of lives and (37) ________ of dollars of property every year. Fighting fires is not just risky. It is also very (38)________. Fire fighters do their jobs in rain or shine, (39)________it’’s 100 F or 20 F below zero. At a fire, they carry heavy gear up and down stairs or ladders. They search for (40)________people. They hack holes in the roof to (41)________smoke and gas. They hold hoses on the fire. The hoses are heavy, and the water in them shoots out under great (42) ________ . In fact, it usually takes two fire fighters to hold one hose. Fire fighters also have many other duties. Sometimes they have to give first aid, and their (43)________must be kept in order. They must visit factories and public buildings to check fire dangers. (44) ______________________________. Fighting fires is an important job. That means there will always be jobs for fire fighters. However, the number of jobs available and the rate of pay depend upon the budget. (45) ______________________________. A person has to pass certain tests in order to be hired as a fire fighter. Among these are tests of intelligence and strength. (46)________________________________. Applicants must also be at least 18 years old. After they are hired, new fire fighters spend a few weeks in a training school. They are assigned to a fire company.