Shropshrie fire service looks to recruit more women
It's a man's world, but to put out fires it doesn't need to be.
Shropshire Fire Service is trying to dispel the myth that only men can save people from burning buildings.
The service is recruiting part-time paid firefighters and is having a drive to encourage women to apply with a taster day at Craven Arms Fire Station on March 8, with a tour of the station.
Organiser Laura Kavanagh-Jones said people needed to be physically fit and reliable to do the job, but that did not mean they had to have bulging muscles – or be male.
She said: "We want to dispel the myths that firefighters have to be large, burly, macho or super strong.
"Women have been firefighters in Shropshire for many years. It's good pay, brings lots of public recognition and you work close to home."
Firefighters must live or work within five minutes of the county's 22 often rural fire stations and attend weekly drill nights, she said.
Women who are already firefighters will be on hand to talk about what the duties involve at the open day, and recruitment and career information will also be available on the day. Those concerned about how fit they have to be will be able to take a look at some of the fitness tests and talk to a fitness instructor.
The Craven Arms day follows the success of a similar event at Oswestry fire station last year.
Shropshire has one of the highest proportion of 'on call' firefighters in the UK with 80 per cent of its brigade made up of highly skilled part-time recruits who work a designated number of hours each week.
The taster day starts at 9.30am. For information contact Laura on (01743) 260189 or visit www.shropshirefire.gov.uk
