Women's firefighter taster sessions

Firefighters

A career as a Shropshire firefighter will be highlighted at "taster" sessions on November 24 in a bid to attract more women into the fire service.

People interested in joining Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service will be able to try out some of the physical tests including the ladder climb, casualty evacuation, enclosed space and equipment carry and get to hear about the wide range of activities undertaken by today's firefighter.

"Being a firefighter today is much more than just putting out fires. Community Fire Safety, educating schoolchildren, water rescues, first aid and learning how to use a wide range of sophisticated equipment is just part of the knowledge of a firefighter," said Chief Fire Officer Alan Taylor.

He urged more women to come to the taster sessions and consider a career in the fire service either as a wholetime firefighter or at one of Shropshire's 22 retained stations.

Two "taster" sessions will be held at the fire services Training and Development Centre at Telford fire station in a bid to encourage more women to consider a career in the fire service.

"We are doing this because we want to be an inclusive service and to ensure that this happens we must encourage a wide range of people to consider a career as a firefighter," said Mr Taylor.

"The number of applicants we receive from under represented groups does not reflect the numbers in our community which is why we are holding such an initiative. We need you to join us."

Would be recruits will also get the chance to look around Telford Fire Station and talk to firefighters.

16th November, 2007