On-call firefighters - What is an on-call firefighter?
An on-call/part-time firefighter is a person who is 'on call' to respond to a range of emergencies. They are doing everyday jobs (for example, shop workers, office workers, mechanics, etc.) until the call comes, then they become professional firefighters. They may be 'part-time', but they are trained and capable people in the front line, saving lives. On-call/part-time Firefighters are paid for their services, they receive thorough training plus all there is to know about emergency situations.
On-call/part-time Firefighters do not just fight fires. As an on-call/part-time firefighter you would be involved in a wide variety of situations which can include incidents ranging from floods, road accidents and chemical spills to retrieving pets from awkward situations.
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On average, you could be called out two or three times a week for a couple of hours. Each Station is different and some are busier than others. If you can't be available all of the time it's not a problem. The Service is particularly keen to hear from people who are available during weekdays and weekends.
We are keen to recruit both men and women and if you think the female roles are more administrative, you would be totally wrong - all Firefighters operate in frontline situations.
On-call/part-time Firefighters come from every walk of life, including shopkeepers, builders, plumbers, farmers, secretaries, engineers and directors of companies together with people who are not currently employed. Previous experience is not required thanks to the comprehensive training programme.
What is important is that you are enthusiastic and can meet certain essential requirements. One of these is that you must be able to respond quickly to the fire station after being alerted by the bleeper that Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service provides to all its on-call/part-time Firefighter personnel. This can be physically demanding and therefore physical fitness is of utmost importance.