Overview of the role
The role of a firefighter is ever changing and fighting fire is only one vital
part of the service provided. firefighters also deal with Road Traffic Collisions,
air and rail crashes, chemical accidents, animal rescues and many other special
service calls involved with the community. Additionally, strong emphasis is
placed on safety and the reduction of avoidable injuries within the local communities
and so firefighters are involved in giving advice and support to members of
the public on many different safety issues. These include community fire safety
initiatives, training & development and station routines.
Community Fire Safety
- To prevent fire and accidents from starting in the first place.
- Educating the community by visiting schools, community centres, people in their own homes, wherever the fire safety message can be delivered.
- Having local knowledge of the area, such as streets, roads and buildings. Advising people about planning escape routes within their own homes in case of a fire.
- Actively seeking to understand and to value diverse individuals and groups.
Training and Development
- To undertake a continuous training programme by attending lectures, exercises, practical training sessions and other forms of training to maintain competence levels.
- Take responsibility for developing your own skills.
- Ensuring your fitness levels are maintained as the work can be both physically and mentally demanding.
Responding to Emergencies
- To respond immediately and safely to all emergency calls.
- Minimise distress and suffering, including giving first-aid.
- Dealing with all kinds of emergencies, including pumping out flooded premises, chemicals spills, providing casualty care and extrication at Road Traffic Collisions and rescuing people who are trapped in buildings or lifts.
Station Routines
- You will need to maintain, clean and test fire service equipment ensuring its readiness for use, using approved procedures in accordance with current Health and Safety practice.
- Each item of equipment to be maintained and updated using test record cards.
- Access and record information whether written or using basic computer skills.
