Supporting employees to become on-call firefighters: a win-win for employers and communities
Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service is actively seeking dedicated individuals to join the service as an on-call firefighter.
On-call firefighters must live or work within 5 minutes of one of the on-call stations. Applications for on-call firefighters are now open in:
The role presents a unique opportunity for employers to support their employees in taking on this vital role, which offers numerous benefits both to the individuals involved and to the wider community. The role of an on-call firefighter is varied and helps people to:
Develop their skills: On-call firefighters receive extensive training that equips them with a variety of transferable skills. These include leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and crisis management. Employees who become on-call firefighters bring these enhanced skills back to their primary workplace, contributing to a more capable and resilient workforce.
Engage with the local community: Supporting employees in becoming on-call firefighters fosters a strong sense of community involvement and corporate social responsibility. It demonstrates the employer's commitment to the wellbeing of the local community, enhancing the company's reputation.
Boost their wellbeing: The role of an on-call firefighter is highly rewarding and can significantly boost an individual's sense of purpose and fulfilment. This increased job satisfaction can translate into higher morale and productivity in their primary job.
Prepare for emergencies: Employees trained as firefighters bring valuable emergency response skills to the workplace. They can play a crucial role in enhancing workplace safety and preparedness, potentially reducing the impact of emergencies.
On-call firefighters are required to be available for a minimum of two nights a week, between 7pm and 7am. They must live or work within 5 minutes from the station, they will carry a pager and be ready to respond to emergencies such as house fires, road traffic collisions, and floods.
Ben Brook, Chief Fire Officer at Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “On-call firefighters are crucial to our service, providing flexibility and rapid response to emergencies. Their dedication and commitment make a significant difference in the safety and resilience of our communities”
Encouraging employees to become on-call firefighters is a strategic move that benefits employers, employees, and the community. It enhances skill development, promotes community engagement, boosts employee wellbeing, and improves emergency preparedness. Employers who support this initiative not only contribute to the safety and resilience of their community but also cultivate a more skilled and motivated workforce.
For more information about on-call firefighters, visit Warwickshire County Council's website at https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/-call-firefighters