A CAMPAIGN to encourage people to become on-call firefighters was launched yesterday.

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is working with the National Fire Chiefs Council to raise awareness of the newly launched operation.

They aim to highlight the opportunities available in the fire and rescue service but also want to show what it takes to be a firefighter.

Rescue service group manager Andy Cole said: “On-call firefighters are an integral part of our service and community.

“We are keen to encourage anyone with the right skills to find out about what they can offer us - and in return, what we can offer you.”

An on-call firefighter is someone who responds to a range of fire and rescue service jobs; these range from emergency calls, working at open days, carrying out work with their local communities and acting as an ambassador for the fire service.

As well as this they could be called out two or three times a week for a few hours at a time. The on-call hours are based around people’s availability and other commitments.

Full training will also be provided on an ongoing basis, which means previous experience is not needed.

Currently there are people serving in this role from every walk of life, including builders, farmers, shopkeepers, homemakers, directors of companies, office workers, and people who are not currently employed.

To find out more about the campaign visit www.oncallfire.uk - the website also gives advice to employers about how having on-call firefighters within their business can bring advantages.