Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service has many on-call fire stations located across the county. On-call firefighters receive the same training as wholetime firefighters. They respond to incidents either from their primary place of work or from home. We regularly recruit for on-call firefighter roles, so check here regularly to make sure you don't miss an opportunity!
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On-call firefighters are firefighters who are on-call and carry an alerter. They are required to respond to an emergency when the alerter activates. To be an on-call firefighter applicants have to be able to respond to the fire station within the required time, so applicants need to either live or work within a close distance. Applicants may already be in a full-time job, unemployed or looking for a career that can fit around their childcare or home life. Being an on-call firefighter can complement many different lifestyles.
On-call firefighters are trained to deal with a wide range of emergency situations. They provide an agreed contract of hours for emergency cover throughout the week. Additionally, they also undertake weekly evening training sessions at station to maintain and develop skills. Retained firefighters receive full initial training followed by continuous development; this will require dedication. Those responding from work will require their employer’s consent, whilst those responding from home must consider the impact on their home life.
Almost half of Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service’s firefighters are on-call, meaning they respond to emergency calls within their community from home or work.
The contribution of on-call firefighters and the support of employers, particularly in Lancashire’s rural areas and small towns, enable the service to respond quickly to fi res and other emergencies, and keep people safe.
There is great value in the skills and attributes our on-call firefighters bring to the service and equal benefits to be gained outside the service from the training and experiences they go through.
Both employees and employers can help us make Lancashire a safer place for everyone.
On-call crews receive the same outstanding level of training as their wholetime counterparts:
Initial training
On-call firefighters must attend a two-week initial training course at our training centre in Chorley. The course takes place Monday to Friday and will require additional study. This course develops firefighters core skills but also an introduction to equality and diversity training, health and safety and risk assessments.
Breathing apparatus training
This is a two-week course carried out approximately six months after the initial training. It covers the skills needed to wear breathing apparatus in hot and humid conditions and can be demanding on the firefighter.
Drill nights
New recruits must complete a development programme over a maximum of four years. This involves attending drill nights at the fire station every week, additional training in the evenings or at weekend and some study in their own time.
Additional specialist training
As a recruit firefighter progresses through their development programme they will attend additional specialist training in road traffic collision, rope rescue, water safety, trauma training, safeguarding and hazardous materials training which includes an introduction to COSHH and RIDDOR procedures.
Continuous professional development
Throughout an on-call firefighter’s career, there will be opportunities for further development, such as LGV driver training and refresher training for critical skills.
If you would like to receive more information on becoming an on-call firefighter, fill out the form below and a member of the team will be in touch.
You can select the nearest fire station to where you live or work.
From your initial application through fitness tests and interviews, our friendly team of on-call support officers who will support you at every stage of your on-call journey.
We currently have support officers located across Lancashire, providing help and advice to current and prospective crew members. Each officer looks after several fire stations within a set area, ensuring they understand their location and the challenges on-call firefighters may face.
You can find more information and contact details for your local fire station's on-call support officer on our website.
Please note: not all Lancashire fire stations are on-call, or have an on-call support officer.
Multi-Stage Shuttle Run/Bleep Test Achieving level 8.6
Chester Treadmill Test
This is an incremental test incorporating seven levels where the gradient increases 3% every two minutes while the speed is set at 3.9mph (6.2km/hr). To be successful the full twelve minute test has to be achieved.
Practical Assessment Day (PAD)
Candidates will be allocated into groups and work around the following stations/tests in no particular order: Ladder Climb, Casualty Evacuation, Ladder Lift, Ladder Extension, Enclosed Space, Equipment Carry, Hose Running.
Strength Test*
Seated shoulder press - 35kg or more. Single rope pull test - 42kg or more. Repeated 28kg pull test at 35 reps/min - 23 reps or more.
*This is not a pass or fail element. However, competency on these strength-based tests will be an indication of success throughout the recruit course.
Elevated cardiorespiratory fitness is necessary to aid metabolic demands of firefighting training, promoting faster recovery between drills whilst also keeping you fit until the end of the session.
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is designed to improve endurance and improve maximal performance when working at 80% of aerobic capacity.
This type of training also mimics the energy expenditure during an emergency; with this in mind alongside the effectiveness in cardiovascular adaptations it is beneficial to include HIIT in exercise prescriptions for firefighters.
HIIT training encompasses short, intermittent bouts of strenuous exercise promoting work rates at high intensity close to that of maximal heart rate. Rest periods should incorporate low intensity movements to allow for an active recovery, this will ensure no rapid drop in blood pressure or blood pooling which would result in the individual becoming faint.
This video shows what to expect during the bleep test.
Well-rounded strength is required to be a functional firefighter. A baseline of strength is required to perform the functional tasks outlined above. If you cannot achieve this, it is suggested that a strength programme will have to be undertaken, using the following guidelines (NSCA):
Sets | Repetitions | Intensity | Recovery |
3-4 | 1-6 | 85-100% | 2-3 minutes |
If you already meet the required baseline of strength, a strength endurance programme should be undertaken. This will prepare you for the repeated bouts of exercise experienced throughout the recruits’ course:
Sets | Repetitions | Intensity | Recovery |
1-3 | 15-20 | 50-70% | 30-60 seconds |
Intensity is based upon one repetition at maximum mass for a specific exercise. For example, if an individual was to deadlift 100kg as a one rep max then 85% 1RM would be 85kg. Upper body strength is vital for being a successful firefighter. Functional exercises could include:
Lat pull down
Shoulder press
Arnie curls
Tricep dip
Upright row
Seated row
Push ups
Grip strength can often be a limiting factor throughout the firefighter recruits course due to the nature of the equipment used and the repeated bouts of exercise. This can be often overlooked throughout training regimes; however in this role grip strength is of utmost importance. Improving this aspect of your strength will stand you in good stead throughout the course.
Example exercises could include:
Farmers Walks - using dumbells /kettlebells: choose a weight that will feel very heavy by the end of the set. Increase weight and distance covered to improve grip strength.
Plate grippers - using a plate that will feel very heavy by the end of the set, 20 reps each way, transfer plate only gripping with fingers.
Towel Supine Row/TRX row – using body weight complete 8-12 reps, keep body in a plank position with core tight. Using a thick towel (on a barbell) will challenge grip, increase difficulty placing feet on box/bench.
Please note - in the event of you having an underlying health issue or concern you should consult with your GP before embarking on the programme. All exercise carries with it the risk of injury or illness and you undertake any exercise at your own risk. LFRS assumes no responsibility for any injury or illness that may arise as a result of you undertaking any pre-course fitness programme.
Carbohydrates are an important energy supply with glycogen stores being drawn upon to sustain exercise. Maintaining an optimum level of carbohydrates throughout the course is critical as this can often be a limiting factor in performance.
Research has shown that consuming carbohydrates, 100g of a high glycemic index, three to four hours before exercise is an effective method of improving performance.
Ingesting smaller amounts of carbohydrates (i.e. 40g immediately prior and 10-15g every 15mins – perhaps in the form of a drink) prevents a fall in blood glucose and in turn delays fatigue.
1 large potato = approx. 55g carbs
1 medium bowl of oats = approx. 50g carbs
2 slices of bread = approx. 45g carbs
500ml sports drink = approx. 30g carbs
Keeping hydrated as a firefighter is of upmost importance, this can improve performance and the ability to quickly recover from training sessions. Being well hydrated will improve motor function, decision making, concentration and enhances mental function which are all key aspects for success. It can be suggested to consume approximately 5-7mL/kg (of body mass) of fluids with sodium around four hours prior to a training session. Whilst also maintaining fluid intake throughout the day, ensuring urine is clear
If you are an employer, these frequently asked questions may help you understand how you can support your local fire service.
There are 39 fire stations across Lancashire and 58 fire engines; 32 fire engines crewed by on-call firefighters. They are often the first to attend emergencies in their towns and villages and provide a vital resource for Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service. If you or your employees had a fire at home or were injured in a road traffic collision, on-call firefighters from your local station could be first on the scene to help. If there weren’t enough to crew the fire engine, the next available crew would be mobilised but may take longer to arrive. The Service needs more on-call firefighters to sustain the availability of our on-call fire engines. If you are a local employer close to one of our stations, could you support any of your employees to fulfil this integral role in the community?
As a timber merchant who owns a warehouse full of combustible materials, I understand the importance of getting to an incident as quickly as possible. We could all need this vital service at some point in our lives, so I am happy to give my time and leave my primary job to fulfil this role.
The impact on my business is minimal, as I only have to leave occasionally during working hours. My family understand my role as an on-call firefighter and support my requirement to be on-call when I am at home. My on-call cover and weekly training is managed to have minimal impact on my family life.
I would say to any potential new employer of an on-call firefighter, to think that in some way you could help save someone’s life is very satisfying.
It is of great importance for local employers to continue to support and encourage individuals who choose to become an on-call firefighter.
Stewart Healy, owner of Lytham Timber and on-call crew manager at Lytham
I would encourage businesses to support their local fire stations. Not only is this of great benefit to the local community but there are also many benefits for the employer themselves, including the positive public perception and enhanced staff retention.
The impact is not as great as you may first assume. Our local fi re station receives on average three emergency calls per week.
Of course, there are occasions, once or twice a year, when a whole working day may be lost, but we can work around these instances thanks in no small part to the support of our non-firefighting staff members.
Paul Farman, sales negotiator at John Ardern Estate Agents and on-call firefighter at Lytham
In my dual role as a Lettings and Sales Administrator and an on-call firefighter, I bring an added layer of safety and preparedness to my employer, reassuring both colleagues and management.
Established procedures have been created to ensure smooth responsibility handling during call-outs.
My firefighting experience has honed skills like quick decision-making and effective communication under pressure, making me a dependable professional even during demanding moments in my administrative role.
Colleagues appreciate my commitment to community service and the practical skills gained as an on-call firefighter.
Employer flexibility in scheduling and task distribution aids in seamlessly managing work disruptions. With strong communication, adaptability, teamwork, and time management abilities, I contribute positively to both roles, driven by a dedication to excellence and community welfare.
Matthew Brewer, letting and sales administrator at Harris and Co Estate Agent and on-call firefighter at Fleetwood
Having two roles that I enjoy is fulfilling. I am really grateful that my employer has been supportive in my new career as an on-call firefighter.
I have always wanted to take challenges, and this helps me to feel part of the local community. This benefits myself, the service and community as I can ensure that the fi re engine is available during key times of the day and night.
Since I have completed the training, I feel much more confident in helping during an emergency and my colleagues now recognise the skills that I can bring to the organisation.
I would encourage anyone who is interested in becoming an on-call firefighter to apply, I work with a great team and there are plenty of opportunities to develop.
Danuta Krejci, engineering support administrator at GVS Filter Technology UK and on-call firefighter at Morecambe
Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service is a strongly performing, forward-thinking service. This is a reflection of our employees, who demonstrate strong core values and are among the best trained and most professional in the country.
Employing an on-call firefighter brings many positive attributes to the workplace; they are used to working as part of a team to achieve an objective, have the ability to think fast while remaining calm in stressful situations and are self-disciplined.
Your employee will receive a variety of professional training and development in transferable skills that could benefit your business. These include certified training in first aid and trauma, LGV driving and basic health and safety including manual handling and risk assessments. Training will also be giving in hazardous materials, safeguarding and equality and diversity.
Supporting on-call firefighters also aligns with the social responsibility aims that many businesses aspire to and can enhance your reputation. It demonstrates engagement with your community and sets you apart from your competitors. We would look to provide you with a plaque to display in at your premises celebrating your support.
We encourage on-call firefighters to ensure that their primary employment remains a priority and that they maintain their availability to Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service in agreement with their managers.
We recognise the impact releasing employees may have and offer flexibility in terms of contracted hours to cause minimal disruption to the business.
We encourage on-call firefighters to return to their primary employment at the earliest opportunity following an incident. In the event of a false alarm, for example, the fire engines can be back at the station within 20 minutes.
Firefighters do not tend to remain at incidents for long periods of time due to safety and welfare implications. The service sends additional crews to relieve those working at incidents for protracted periods. In very busy periods, firefighters are requested to increase their availability and they are encouraged to discuss and agree this with their primary employers.
Employers do not receive any monetary remuneration. We encourage on-call firefighters to agree arrangements with their employers to leave work to attend incidents.
On-call firefighters are firefighters who are on-call and carry an alerter. They are required to respond to an em...
On-call firefighters are firefighters who are on-call and carry an alerter. They are required to respond to an em...
On-call firefighters are firefighters who are on-call and carry an alerter. They are required to respond to an em...
