How to become a Distinctive Firefighter in the UK
A firefighter is a person who is well trained to fight extensive fires and rescue victims of massive accidents such as collapsed buildings. Becoming a fire fighter in the UK is a very challenging job but with great rewards. You need to be dedicated person to fit in the fire rescue team. In the UK, firefighting job is very competitive hence getting a job is very challenging. Over 70% give up the calling and move to other careers due to lack of employment.
The key roles will be to tell London dwellers all about fire prevention and safety especially children, the elderly and people whose English is not their first language. You will also be required to make fire safety visits, advising people and finding creative ways to make sure that safety messages get through.
To become a fire fighter you need to have some personal qualities, which are be of good character, have a good previous medical history, over 18 years of age, no criminal record, good eyesight and color sensitivity. To be hired as a fire fighter, there are 10 must-do things you must do to increase your chances. They include:
Learn all the phases of firefighter employment procedure
The hiring process varies from one department to another hence you will need to be familiar with all the processes involved. You should do a good research on how the fire departments in the area you want to test conduct the enrollment.
Start taking firefighter tests
These tests are meant to prepare you for the enrollment process. One test prepares u to the next and even if u fail, make sure you learn from your errors. Most departments test frequently hence its worth to make a try. After all, it is by taking tests that one can get hired.
Taking fire technology classes at a local institution
This is not a vital requirement but it prepares you for the job and makes the resume look good.
Maintain a good conduct
Make you keep off arrests, car accidents etc. This will make it hard for you to stand out during the recruitment.
Become an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Most of fire departments require an EMT certificate to apply or after hire. Work experience as an EMT is also beneficial.
Be a Volunteer
Volunteer yourself in community service work. Most departments look forward to working with people interested in community work. It is also a good way to put together your resume.
Learn about fire service
You should make a point of visiting fire stations especially the departments you are placing applications. Read fire fighting magazine and publications to get more knowledge about the job.
The process of firefighter recruitment
Fill out the fire service application Take the three-hour psychological test. After you pass the general medical screening test, you can go onto the physical test to become a firefighter in the United Kingdom. Take a one-on-one personal interview to judge your individual personality. Take your final medical test. The tests performed will be a hearing test, lung capacity, step test and a stamina test.
