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 firefighters on the Retained Duty
System 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 firefighter on the Retained Duty System 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
firefighters on the Retained Duty System. 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 on the 'how to apply' page, 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.
The current recruitment campaign has now closed (Tuesday
24 March 2009)
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.
Follow the link to view
dates for the Retained Duty System recruitment campaign
Latest
vacancies at Avon Fire & Rescue Service