Career as a Firefighter
The traditional view of firefighters turning out from a fire engine is only a small part of what we do.
As the demands on our fire service have changed in recent years, the expectations of our firefighters
have evolved too. So what’s involved?
Training and assessments
Firefighters undertake continuous training to develop and maintain the skills needed to respond safely and effectively to emergencies. Regular assessments ensure competence across operational, practical and safety-critical activities throughout their career.
Community safety and prevention
A key part of the role is helping to keep communities safe through education, advice and prevention work. This includes delivering home fire safety visits, engaging with vulnerable people and supporting community events and campaigns.
Learning
Firefighters are expected to continually learn and adapt throughout their career. From new operational procedures to specialist skills and leadership development, ongoing learning is an important part of the role.
Emergency response
Firefighters respond to a wide range of emergencies including fires, road traffic collisions, rescues and other incidents. The role requires calm decision-making, professionalism and the ability to work effectively under pressure.
Shift work
Firefighters work a shift pattern which includes days, nights, weekends and public holidays. This ensures emergency cover is provided to communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Serious incident handling
Firefighters may attend challenging and traumatic incidents involving serious injury, fatalities or large-scale emergencies. The role requires resilience, professionalism and the ability to support colleagues and members of the public in difficult situations.
Initiative in emergency
Firefighters must be able to think clearly and make effective decisions in fast-moving and unpredictable situations. Using initiative appropriately is essential to keeping themselves, colleagues and the public safe.
Teamwork
Firefighters work closely as part of a team where trust, communication and cooperation are essential. Supporting colleagues and working together effectively is fundamental to delivering a safe and professional service.
Community role model
Firefighters are highly visible members of the community and are expected to demonstrate professionalism, integrity and respect both on and off duty. They play an important role in building trust and promoting positive community relationships.
Following instructions
Operational incidents rely on firefighters following procedures, policies and instructions to maintain safety and effectiveness. The ability to listen, respond appropriately and work within command structures is essential.
Physical fitness
The role of a firefighter is physically demanding and requires a good level of fitness, strength and endurance. Firefighters are expected to maintain their fitness to safely carry out operational duties and training activities.