Your career as a firefighter

Have you considered a career as a firefighter? On these pages, find out more about how and when we recruit firefighters; what we look for and whether being a firefighter is the career for you.

The alarm sounds. You pull on your firegear, board the fire engine and get to the emergency double fast. This is the part everyone knows.

But there's a lot of activity behind the scenes. You'll be expected to make yourself aware of the risks and potential hazards to be found in the area around your station. And you'll need good people skills to deal with individuals in panic or distress. You'll also need to communicate information about fire safety and fire prevention - particularly to schoolchildren and older members of the community.

Constant practise, drills, exercise and attending lectures are all essential to keeping your skills sharp. Physical fitness is a vital requirement. You will need to have a responsible attitude, even out of work.

Equipment checks are very important - including maintenance on fire engines, uniforms, protective clothing, pump ladders, communication systems and fire hydrants.

All firefighters start out in the roll of firefighter and everyone has an equal chance of promotion. The first step up the ladder is Crew Manager then right up to the most senior positions. Promotions are decided by tests and demonstrations of your potential at our assessment centres.

The salary for firefighters on entry to the Brigade is £20,396 plus an additional London Weighting allowance of £4,840.

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