Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service has overcome challenging COVID-19 regulations and announced the latest round of dates for its firefighter taster sessions next month.
Rigorous safety measures have been put in place allowing the sessions to continue despite a change in restrictions and will now happen on Wednesday, 7 and Wednesday, 14 October.
The taster days allow members of the public interested in joining the fire service, the opportunity to experience certain aspects of the role.
Attendees will be able to try job related tasks such as climbing ladders and the confined space crawl which simulates a rescue scenario in a dark narrow tunnel.
There are further tasks around physical strength and manual dexterity including the casualty evacuation, ladder lift and equipment assembly exercises.
Chief Fire Officer Rod Hammerton said: “The decision to host these sessions has not been taken lightly, it has involved a lot of careful planning and many additional safety protocols have been factored in due to COVID-19.
“We are confident we have done all we can to protect our staff hosting the event and visitors to the station. The experience, although limited, is safe and will give people a chance to ask questions, have a go at some of the work we do and learn more about the role of a firefighter.
“Due to COVID-19 places are limited, and people will be offered a date and time on a strict first come first served basis. We understand those who do not get a space will be disappointed, but we are able to offer extensive online support through our website.
“There will be lots of useful guidance on what being a firefighter is all about released on social media and on our website in the coming weeks including what to expect during recruitment, information about the written tests and how to get fit, plus a host of other information to support people in their decision making when considering the fire service as a career.
“We are also planning a week-long social media campaign later in the autumn to help potential candidates learn more about the role.”
Due to a combination of staff commitments and COVID-19 restrictions, three firefighter taster sessions will be run over two days and 36 places are available.
The sessions are scheduled to start at 10am, 1.30pm and 4pm.
Details of how to register will be announced on social media on Tuesday, 29 September.
Places will be allocated on a strictly first come first served basis and no alternative dates can be offered due to the level of interest.
Interested parties should follow the Service’s social media channels on Facebook and Twitter and look out for the announcement.
