If you have ever wondered what it takes to be an on-call firefighter, Gnosall Community Fire Station is offering the perfect chance to find out. The station is actively looking for new recruits and welcoming anyone who is thinking of applying to come along to a drill night and see what the job is really like.
When and where
Drill night at Gnosall takes place every Wednesday between 7pm and 9pm. It is a working training session, so visitors get to watch the crew check their kit, practise responding to real-life scenarios, and see how the team operates together.
A friendly face speaks up
Sophie Laird has been an on-call firefighter at Gnosall for around 16 months and knows first-hand how useful a drill night visit can be. She attended one herself before applying.
"When I was going through the application process, I went down to Gnosall station to watch a drill night and it was really useful to see the crew in action and how everything works," Sophie said. "I was really nervous but I saw how friendly everyone was and it really put me at ease."
Sophie also highlights how drill nights are about more than just training. "It's brilliant practice for real-life scenarios but it's also great for building relationships with the team, so that we know how each other work when a real job comes in."
Who can apply?
You do not need any previous experience. Anyone aged 18 or over who lives or works close to an on-call station is eligible to apply. All recruits go through the same training and assessment process.
- Age 18 or over
- Live or work close to Gnosall or another on-call station
- No prior firefighting experience needed
Sophie's advice is simple: "If you're thinking of applying for on-call, it's definitely worth coming down and having a look. It's a great opportunity to meet the crew and ask any questions you might have!"
How to find out more
To register your interest or make a formal application, visit the Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service website using the link below. In an emergency always call 999. For general enquiries call 0300 330 1000.
Source: staffordshirefire.gov.uk
