How employing an on-call firefighter is great for both employer and community
On-call firefighters are integral to the brilliant 24/7 protection that Warwickshire Fire & Rescue Service provides for our communities. They are also a tremendous asset to the businesses which employ them, says Gosia Zielinska of WFRS.
I am writing to inform and encourage all employers to explore a unique and impactful opportunity from which both your organisation and our local community can benefit. By promoting the role of on-call firefighters and actively encouraging your staff to participate, we can exponentially enhance the potential of our fire and rescue service to protect and serve the communities in Warwickshire.
I would like to take a moment to explain what being an on-call firefighter entails, how the scheme works, and the numerous advantages of having on-call firefighters on your team.
Firstly, let me clarify what an on-call firefighter is. An on-call firefighter is a highly trained professional who serves as a part-time firefighter, responding to emergencies as and when they occur. These dedicated individuals are often employed in other jobs but make themselves available during specific periods to provide vital fire and rescue cover in their local area. On-call availability refers to the periods during which on-call firefighters are available to respond to emergency calls. These periods typically involve being on-call for a certain number of hours each week, including weekdays, weekends, and public holidays.
The on-call scheme operates on a retained basis, meaning that individuals are alerted to emergencies via an on-call pager or mobile device. They then respond promptly to the local on-call fire station for immediate deployment. They must live or work within a specified distance of their on-call fire station, as they need to be available to respond to incidents within a short timeframe. The scheme ensures that communities have access to a competent and reliable firefighting force, regardless of their size or remote location. The presence of on-call firefighters is crucial in guaranteeing the safety and protection of residents.
Now, let's discuss the benefits of having on-call firefighters incorporated into your workforce. By encouraging your staff to become on-call firefighters, you empower them to make a significant difference in their local community. This form of involvement enhances the sense of belonging, responsibility, and civic duty among your employees. Working as an on-call firefighter fosters personal growth, leadership skills, and teamwork abilities. These qualities can then be transferred back into the workplace, benefiting your organisation as a whole.
Moreover, promoting and supporting the on-call firefighting program aligns with your organization's commitment to corporate social responsibility. By advocating for community safety and participating in such initiatives, your company demonstrates its dedication to the well-being of the communities it operates within. This publicly reflects your organization's values and creates a positive reputation that resonates with clients, customers, and the community at large.
It is crucial to note that individuals who choose to become on-call firefighters receive comprehensive training and support from Warwickshire fire and rescue service. They acquire essential firefighting techniques, first aid skills, and other competencies required to respond effectively to emergencies. Training schedules can be flexible to accommodate employment hours, minimising any disruption to work productivity.
By encouraging your employees to engage in the on-call firefighting scheme, your organisation can play a significant role in supporting our fire and rescue service and protecting local communities. Your endorsement ensures the availability of critical fire and rescue services when they are most needed, safeguarding the lives and properties of both your employees and the wider community.
I kindly request you to consider promoting the role of on-call firefighters within your organisation. By empowering your employees to embrace their community responsibilities, you not only contribute to the greater good but also foster a culture of pride, teamwork, and resilience within your organisation. Together, we can make a real difference in ensuring community safety and resilience.
If you require additional information or assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to us or visit our website for further guidance - https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/oncallfirefighters . We can also visit you and deliver a presentation on the on-call scheme. Should you wish to arrange it , please email ffrecruitment@warwickshire.gov.uk
Thank you for considering this request and for your commitment to the well-being of our community. Let us join forces to support the fire and rescue and contribute to the protection of our communities.
Gosia
Supporting your employees to apply for on-call firefighter role aligns with your corporate social responsibility...
1. Increased Employee Engagement: Research has shown that employees who participate in community service have higher levels of job satisfaction and engagement. By allowing your employees to pursue on-call firefighting roles, you provide them with an opportunity to give back to the community and engage in meaningful work beyond their regular job responsibilities. This increased engagement can lead to higher productivity, improved teamwork, and reduced turnover rates.
2. Positive Public Perception: Supporting your employees in their pursuit of on-call firefighter roles demonstrates your commitment to community welfare. This proactive approach to corporate social responsibility can enhance your public image, generating positive publicity and attracting socially conscious customers. It sends a message that your organisation values community involvement and invests in the well-being of the neighbourhoods in which you operate.
3. Enhanced Employee Skills: On-call firefighting requires the development of a diverse skill set, including problem-solving, critical thinking, decision-making, and effective communication. These skills are transferable to various workplace settings and can greatly benefit your organisation. Employees who engage in on-call firefighting gain invaluable experience in managing high-stress situations, coordinating teams, and making quick and decisive judgments. These skills can be leveraged within your organisation, further enhancing overall employee performance.
4. Improved Risk Management: By supporting your employees in becoming on-call firefighters, you create a workforce that possesses advanced knowledge of safety protocols, emergency response, and risk management. This expertise can be utilised within your organisation to develop and implement robust safety policies, conduct effective drills, and mitigate potential hazards. A well-prepared and risk-aware organisation is less likely to face accidents, disruptions, and reputation damage caused by emergencies.
5. Higher Employee Retention and Recruitment: Supporting your employees in pursuing on-call firefighting roles can positively impact your employee retention rates. Employees feel valued and appreciated when their personal interests and growth are supported. This can result in increased loyalty, job satisfaction, and a reduced likelihood of looking for other job opportunities. Furthermore, promoting your organisation's commitment to community service through on-call firefighting can attract talented individuals who prioritise socially responsible employers during their job search.
6. Collaboration and Team Building: Participating in on-call firefighting requires strong teamwork, effective communication, and the ability to collaborate under high-pressure situations. Employees who engage in such experiences can bring these skills back to the workplace, fostering a culture of collaboration and teamwork. This can lead to improved cross-departmental cooperation, the sharing of best practices, and overall organisational cohesion.
Reasons to encourage your employees to consider becoming on-call firefighters:
1. Community Engagement: By participating in the on-call firefighter role, your employees will contribute to the safety and well-being of their local community. This act of service enhances your organisation's reputation as a responsible and caring member of the community, fostering a positive image.
2. Leadership and Teamwork Development: On-call firefighters undergo rigorous training in areas such as firefighting techniques, first aid, and risk assessment. This training enhances their leadership and teamwork skills, which ultimately benefit your organisation as they bring back these valuable attributes to their roles within your team.
3. Crisis Management and Problem-Solving Skills: Being an on-call firefighter requires quick thinking, adaptability, and the ability to make sound decisions during high-pressure situations. These skills translate seamlessly into the workplace, enabling your employees to approach challenges with confidence and efficiency.
4. Physical and Mental Fitness: The demands of the on-call firefighter role promote a physically active lifestyle, helping your employees maintain a high level of fitness. Regular physical activity positively impacts their overall health, leading to increased productivity and reduced sick leave.
5. Training Opportunities: On-call firefighters receive extensive training in various firefighting techniques, emergency response, and incident management. This training not only enhances their firefighting capabilities but also provides opportunities for personal and professional development. The knowledge gained can be transferred to other areas of your business, such as risk assessment or emergency preparedness.
6. Employability Skills: The on-call firefighter role equips your employees with a diverse range of skills that are highly valued in the job market. These include problem-solving, communication, teamwork, leadership, and the ability to work under pressure. Investing in your employees' development significantly improves their long-term employability.
7. Enhanced Employee Engagement: Supporting your employees' aspirations to become on-call firefighters demonstrates your commitment to their personal and professional growth. This investment in their well-being and career progression increases job satisfaction and loyalty, leading to higher employee engagement and retention within your organisation.
8. Emergency Preparedness: Having employees with on-call firefighting experience within your organisation enhances your overall emergency preparedness. They can provide valuable insights, contribute to the development of emergency response plans, and assist with safety protocols, mitigating potential risks and ensuring the safety of your employees and premises.