More on-call firefighters needed for Maiden Newton
Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue are looking to boost numbers
There's a push to recruit more on-call firefighters based in Maiden Newton.
Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service say they need to have additional retained staff on their books, to make sure they can keep attending emergencies.
On-call firefighters live and/or work within the community they serve, and are paid to respond to incidents whenever they occur.
They have a pager that goes off when they're required, for a wide range of shouts - including commercial and domestic fires, road traffic collisions, rescues from heights or water, flooding or animal rescues.
If there aren't enough people close to stations like Maiden Newton that can be called upon, it can mean a fire engine can't go out.
That'll lead to delays in responding to incidents, and could be life-threatening.
Station Manager Neil Tidball, the on-call development manager, said:
“The role of a firefighter is very rewarding, and it requires determination, courage, motivation, and a genuine desire to serve the community. Successful candidates will become part of a well-trained workforce, earning additional income, and gaining transferable skills such as first aid, driving qualifications and health & safety knowledge – which can also benefit them in their primary employment.”
HAVE A GO
To help with the recruitment process, Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue is giving us a chance to get hands on and see what it's like to be an on-call firefighter.
They're holding an event at Maiden Newton station next Wednesday (16th March) between 6.30 and 8.30pm for anyone interested in finding out more.
For more information, you can visit the DWFRS website, email oncallsupportofficers@dwfire.org.uk or call the recruitment line on 01722 691444.