About being a Retained Firefighter
A firefighter on the Retained Duty System provides an
on call part-time service, responding to fire and emergency calls
using the same appliances and equipment as Wholetime firefighters.
The difference is that Retained firefighters are on call in
their homes or work places rather than at a fire station. This
role offers flexible working hours and could suit people with
childcare responsibilities.
As a Retained firefighter you would need to live or
work within five
minutes travelling distance of your local retained fire
station during your hours of declared availability. Retained
firefighters can choose whether to provide part cover
(days, nights, weekends), or full cover
(approx 24/7).
Being a Retained firefighter is like having a
part-time job – you have to commit to certain hours and you get
paid for it. Find out more about becoming a firefighter in the
'is it for
me?' section where AF&RS staff (Wholetime and
Retained) tell you about their impressions of the job.
When can I apply?
We generally hold two recruitment campaigns a year for
Retained firefighters. Each campaign takes
approximately six months to complete.
You can apply at any time during the year by requesting a
Retained Recruitment Enquiry Form using the on our online
request form, or by calling in to your local station.
Your enquiry will be acknowledged in writing and held on
file.
If you are offering us the cover we are looking for and when
vacancies arise at your local station, you will be sent a full
application pack and brought forward for assessment. You will then
be given detailed information and dates for the selection
tests.
You are, of course, free to withdraw from the selection process
at any time.
To apply, you must:
- be 18 years of age by the time your training starts
- be fit enough to pass the physical selection tests and
medical examination
- live or work within five
minutes travelling distance of your local retained fire
station.
Before applying it is important to consider your current
occupation (your primary employment), particularly if this
involves driving duties. Please read about
driving and the EC Drivers Hours and Tachograph Rules for Goods
Vehicles which may apply to you. All applicants
are required to complete a Driving Questionnaire as part
of their intial application and this can be found on our
how do
I apply page.
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