NORTH Tawton Fire Station is recruiting for more On Call Firefighters.

On Call firefighters are community-spirited men and women who are called into action by Fire Control operators and are a fundamental part of the emergency cover across Devon and Somerset provided by Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service.

They come from a variety of backgrounds – for example self-employed, full-time parents, trades people, administrators, shopkeepers but all sharing a common purpose - wanting to give something back to the community.

Those who join in a part-time role respond to fires and emergency calls in the same way as Whole-time (full-time) firefighters.

The job offers an opportunity to be part of a highly trained tight-knit team and it is often exciting, challenging and rewarding.

Incidents attended can range from attending fires, floods, road traffic accidents, chemical spills, and talking in the community about fire prevention.

On Call firefighters can expect to be called out two/three times a week for one/two hours.

This could be during the day, evenings or weekend but applicants choose the hours when they are available, all the Service asks is for applicants to be flexible.

The minimum availability hours contract is 63 hours per week (part cover) and 84 hours per week (full cover).

Applicants should be aged 18 or over, be able to respond from home/work within five minute of North Tawton Fire Station, be physically and medically fit with good eyesight and hearing, be prepared for the commitment and discipline of being a firefighter and preferably hold a full UK driving licence.

Remuneration is paid and there is also an hourly rate for training and each call attended.

Full details, including the job description, selection process, physical fitness standard, training, and other conditions can be found on the website: www.dsfire.gov.uk/workingforus/recruitment .

Alan Quick