An exciting ‘have a go’ event has been scheduled for Saturday, July 8th, to provide an opportunity for those interested in becoming an on-call firefighter for the Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service.
Cricklade, Royal Wootton Bassett, Swindon, and Stratton fire stations have openings for individuals who can offer their availability during weekdays and/or weekends. Flexible contracts are available for those who work shift systems as their primary employment or have childcare responsibilities.
On-call firefighters live and/or work in close proximity to their local fire station and are compensated for responding to emergencies during agreed-upon cover periods. They work alongside full-time colleagues, providing vital support to their community and beyond.
When the pager goes off, on-call firefighters may be called to various incidents, including commercial and domestic fires, road traffic collisions, height or water rescues, animal rescues, and flood situations, among others.
The ‘have a go’ sessions will be held on July 8th at Westlea fire station (The Chesters, Stonehill Green, West Swindon, SN5 7DB). Two sessions are available at 10am and 11:30am.
Prospective candidates are encouraged to arrive early to register for their preferred session. During the event, they will have the opportunity to meet both full-time and on-call firefighters, ask questions, experience wearing breathing apparatus sets, and participate in activities like running out hoses. Additionally, some tests from the selection process, such as a dummy drag and climbing a 13.5m ladder, will be set up for individuals to try.
To secure a spot in advance, please send an email to ritchie.stone@dwfire.org.uk with your contact details and preferred session time.
Group Manager Neil Tidball expressed the need for new on-call firefighters in the Swindon and north Wiltshire area, highlighting the event as a fantastic opportunity for those interested in joining the fire and rescue service to learn more.
Being a firefighter is a rewarding experience, and successful candidates become part of a well-trained workforce while earning additional income. They also gain valuable transferable skills such as first aid, driving qualifications, and health & safety knowledge, which can benefit them in their primary employment.
If you’re interested in applying to become an on-call firefighter or if you’re an employer in the local area with staff who may want to offer their availability, please visit www.dwfire.org.uk/on-call-firefighters for further information.
