Firefighters from Avon Fire & Rescue Service will open Paulton Fire Station to the public as part of a recruitment campaign for on-call firefighters.

The fire service provides emergency and protection services to the communities of Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire.

Crews are committed to providing a safer place for people to live, work and visit across an area of 134,753 hectares which has a population of over one million people.

An on-call firefighter is someone who responds to a range of incidents; including emergency call outs, working at open days, carrying out work within their local communities and acting as an ambassador for the fire service.

While firefighting has traditionally been at the forefront of Avon Fire & Rescue Service’s work, the role of a modern fire and rescue service has increased to cover the core functions of 'preventing', 'protecting' and 'responding'.

On-call crew manager at Paulton, Daniel Hudd, said: “We’re encouraging anyone with an interest in coming and serving with us to get in touch and find out more. This is a truly important role in the community and can be extremely rewarding.”

On-call firefighters come from all walks of life, including homemakers, shopkeepers, builders, farmers, office workers and directors of companies, together with people who are not currently employed.

Previous experience is not required as full training is provided throughout your career with AF&RS.

An on-call firefighter could be called out two or three times a week, for a few hours at a time. The on-call hours are based around people’s availability and other commitments. Benefits include occupational health and paid holidays.

To be an on-call firefighter at Paulton, you must fulfil this criteria

  • Have a strong desire to support the local community
  • Be enthusiastic about working as part of a team
  • Have a good level of fitness and strength
  • Live or/and work within close proximity to Paulton fire station

The crew will be opening up the station on Thursday, June 20, from 7pm until 8.30pm for local people to go along and learn more about the role.

To find out more about being an on-call firefighter and apply, visit the service’s website: https://www.avonfire.gov.uk/careers/on-call-firefighter/about/

AF&RS is also welcoming those interested to get in touch with them by emailing [email protected].