Fire cadets is a three year programme aimed at 13 to 18-year-olds who live in Lancashire. Our exciting and unique programme provides young people with an insight into a uniformed service with basic firefighting skills being learnt alongside personal and social skills. We strive to deliver a quality programme that combines key operational skills with invaluable knowledge of the Fire and Rescue Service.
Joining our Cadet force allows individuals to build their self-confidence and resilience whilst developing their leadership and teamwork ability. It’s also lots of fun and a great way to meet new friends whilst gaining a respected qualification that is recognised by the Fire and Rescue Service.
What does being a fire cadet mean?
As a fire cadet, you will be treated as a young firefighter. You will be provided with a full uniform and name badge and will represent Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service.
We expect our cadets to:
- Attend the weekly two hour session at the fire station
- Have a real passion and genuine interest in learning about the Fire and Rescue Service
- Have a desire to work as part of a team to build a safer and stronger Lancashire and wider community
- Show a certain amount of discipline and commitment, just like a firefighter
- Possess a ‘can do’ attitude and always try your very best
- To respect the views of others and foster inclusive values
What does the qualification involve?
Although there are many fun and hands-on operational elements involved in being a fire cadet, every young person in the unit will also complete a Level 2 qualification in ‘Fire and Rescue Services in the Community’. During your first year as a cadet, you will complete an award and in the second year, you build on your skills in order to gain a full certificate. The qualification includes learning about:
- Functions and responsibilities of the Fire and Rescue Service
- Problem solving and communication skills
- Community projects
- The science of fire
- Water safety and rescue techniques
- Exercise ground scenarios
- Community safety
- Citizenship
In addition, we run enrichment days that are designed to enhance the skills that are continually being learnt. These days provide a great opportunity for operational activities and teamwork – they are great fun too!
Many of our cadets also decide to stay on for a third year in order to further develop their leadership skills, taking on the roles of Cadet Crew Manager and Cadet Watch Manager whilst supporting their unit in positions of greater responsibility.
Where are the cadet units located?
Currently, we have fire cadet units located in:
- Carnforth Fire Station (Market Street, Carnforth, LA5 9JU)
- Preesall Fire Station (Sandy Lane, Preesall, FY6 0EJ)
- Skelmersdale Fire Station (Tanhouse Road, Skelmersdale, WN8 9NN)
- Preston Fire Station (Blackpool Road, Preston, PR1 6US)
- Darwen Fire Station (Union Street, Darwen, BB3 0DA)
- South Shore Fire Station (St Anne’s Road, Blackpool, FY4 3AP)
- Bacup Fire Station (Pennine Road, Bacup, OL13 9PZ)
How can I apply to become a fire cadet?
Applications for fire cadets open in May. The process involves completing a fire cadet application form, demonstrating why you feel you would make a good cadet.
Once completed, you return your application form to the Cadet Admin Manager by email or post to Carmella Gildert, Fire Cadets, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service Headquarters, Garstang Road, Fulwood, Preston, PR2 3LH). If your application is successful, you will be invited to an informal interview at your local fire station.
Please note: As our programme is very popular and fills up quickly, early application is advised to avoid disappointment. If all places are full at your preferred station, please contact Carmella to get your name added to the waiting list.
Find our application form here
Why not volunteer to be a cadet leader?
We always welcome applications from individuals (18+) who wish to volunteer to work with and support our Fire Cadet Units. Click here to discover what volunteer opportunities we currently have available in your area!
*Please note, all our volunteers are subject to an Enhanced DBS check.