Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) is hosting a series of familiarisation sessions for individuals interested in becoming On-Call Firefighters.

These sessions are scheduled ahead of the forthcoming On-Call Firefighter recruitment process and will be held in Irvinestown, Portstewart, and Newtownhamilton.

Opportunity to explore a career as an on-call firefighter

The NIFRS is reaching out to those who live or work within five minutes of these locations, inviting them to explore a career as an On-Call Firefighter.

The familiarisation sessions are designed to provide an in-depth insight into the role, allowing potential applicants to meet with serving firefighters, understand the part-time role, and clarify any queries before applying.

Details of the familiarisation sessions

The sessions will take place from 7pm-9pm on the following dates:

• Tuesday, 23 January at Irvinestown Fire Station
• Thursday, 25 January at Portstewart Fire Station
• Tuesday, 6 February at Newtownhamilton Fire Station

Group Commander David Doherty highlighted the importance of these sessions: “We are looking for people who are flexible, enthusiastic, and willing to serve their community as On-Call Firefighters.

“These events are being held to introduce people in the community to their local Firefighters, find out what the part-time role involves and ask any questions they have before applying to become an On-Call Firefighter in their area.

“The career is not just exciting and rewarding but also presents its unique set of challenges.

“Our Firefighters handle a wide range of emergencies, including fires, floods, and road traffic collisions.”

Engagement with local businesses

In addition to reaching out to potential firefighters, the NIFRS plans to engage with local businesses.

They aim to encourage employers to support their employees in responding to emergency calls as On-Call Firefighters.

What attendees can expect

Participants will have the opportunity to:

• Engage with serving Firefighters and District Officers.
• Discuss various contracts and how they can be managed alongside primary employment.
• Receive tips on maintaining fitness levels and hear how current Firefighters prepared for their Practical Aptitude Tests.
• Gain insights into the daily routine of Firefighters and understand the challenges and highlights of this rewarding career.
• Learn about the importance of teamwork and training in firefighting.

For more information on becoming an On-Call Firefighter, interested individuals can visit the NIFRS website.

IFSJ Comment

The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service’s initiative to host familiarisation sessions for aspiring On-Call Firefighters is a proactive step towards strengthening community engagement and bolstering local fire and rescue capabilities.

By providing a platform for potential recruits to interact directly with serving firefighters, NIFRS promotes a deeper understanding of the demands and rewards associated with this critical public service.

Such initiatives enhance community resilience and preparedness, fostering a collaborative approach to safety and emergency response.

These sessions also reflect the changing dynamics of firefighting, highlighting the adaptability and diversity required in modern fire and rescue services.