A NEW recruitment campaign has been launched by Jersey Fire and Rescue Service to attract on-call firefighters to its team.
The role suits enthusiastic and skilled individuals from all walks of life who are able to deal sensitively with members of the public in difficult and emotional situations, according to the government.
Interested Islanders must also be able to work under pressure, often with great courage and in distressing circumstances, the government said.
“The challenging role of a firefighter means the service is looking for people who work well in a team; people with a positive, professional approach; and people who recognise the value of rules and procedures but are also innovative and can challenge appropriately,” they explained.
To encourage prospective candidates, three practical taster sessions have been organised to give a flavour of the role and demonstrate the physical and mental demands of the job. Participants will have the chance to take part in simulated firefighting exercises, learn about the various aspects of the work and engage with experienced firefighters and the recruitment team.
Two open sessions will take place on Saturday 16 November from 11am to 3pm and on Tuesday 26 November from 6.30pm to 9pm at the service’s Rouge Bouillon headquarters, while another session for female recruits only will be held at Rouge Bouillon on Saturday 23 November from 11am to 3pm.
Prospective applicants must be 18 or over on their first day of service, have been continuously resident in the Island for the past five years, be healthy and fit, and be able to swim at least 50 metres. In addition, they must hold a full, clean driving licence, have good sight – aided or unaided – and colour perception in both eyes, be confident working at height and in enclosed spaces, and be happy to work a shift system and at weekends.
Permission is required from employers where on-call firefighters may be responding while at work. Successful applicants must be able to respond to a call from the fire station within 15 minutes, or ten minutes if they live near the Western Fire Station in St Brelade.
The closing date for applications is 30 November.
