CREDITON Fire Station is holding an open evening for prospective on-call firefighters on Tuesday, July 26, at 7pm.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service is looking for people in the Crediton community to be on-call or “retained” firefighters.

No previous experience of firefighting is necessary for this role – the service says the ideal prospective firefighter starts with a commitment to the community, a positive attitude and a good level of fitness.

This is an opportunity for men and women who live and/or work within five minutes response time to the fire station in Charlotte Street to potentially save lives in fire, flood and road traffic emergencies.

The service says that being on-call means that you provide a level of cover whilst at work or at home and when you are needed your pager will alert you to attend the station.

People who can give cover during the day are particularly needed.

Many people have primary occupations whilst on-call - either employed or self-employed, the service has examples of employees in factories, shops, takeaways and restaurants who are on-call firefighters.

You will need to be over 18 and have a good level of fitness and strength, but the service says sometimes people overestimate the levels required and this can deter them (particularly women) from applying.

The fire service will give people advice and help in preparing for both the written and practical assessments.

Equally, its says, living with a disability is not automatically a barrier to operational firefighting; it depends on the nature of the disability.  Once you are recruited full training is provided.

DSFRS is an inclusive employer and is working towards a workforce which reflects the local community, so if you are interested please go along to Crediton Fire Station, Charlotte Street, Crediton, EX17 3BJ, on Tuesday, July 26 at 7pm to find out more information.

Alan Quick