Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service (BFRS) is inviting local people to register their interest in becoming on-call firefighters at stations across the county.
The role allows everyday community members to provide vital emergency cover while balancing their existing jobs, studies, and family commitments.
On-call firefighters respond to a range of incidents, including fires, road traffic collisions, and flooding.
The service is currently recruiting at 11 stations, including Bedford, Harrold, and Kempston.
Other stations looking for staff include Ampthill, Biggleswade, Leighton Buzzard, Potton, Sandy, Shefford, Toddington, and Woburn.
The positions are paid, with individuals receiving a monthly retaining fee for providing cover and attending a weekly drill night.
Firefighters also receive additional payments for responding to emergencies, training courses, and station-based equipment checks.
Helping others
Watch: Bedford on-call firefighters ready to help anyone in need at a moment’s notice
Mark Garrett, head of protection and response at BFRS, said: “Our on-call firefighters come from a variety of backgrounds and careers, but what they have in common is a commitment to helping others.”
Garrett explained that the service is looking for enthusiastic individuals from all walks of life who want to develop new skills and earn an extra income.
Local crews already include people balancing various careers, such as Abi, who serves at Ampthill fire station alongside her job in a local florist.
Abi described the role as a juggling act but added, “Being part of a great team and helping the community we love makes it the best thing I’ve ever done.”
“It’s worth it”
Tom, an on-call firefighter at Toddington fire station who balances the role with full-time work, noted that the job can be demanding.
“You have to be committed, but it’s worth it,” Tom explained.
To apply, candidates must be over 18, physically fit, hold a full UK driving licence, and live or work close to an on-call fire station.
Expressions of interest are open until next month (12 July), before formal applications open on 13 July.
