It takes about two weeks to complete the first part
of our basic training course at our specially equipped
training centre. Here you'll be taught basic firefighting skills
such as ladder safety, hose laying and the use of road traffic
cutting equipment.
You will also learn about community education and the importance
of communicating these messages to the community. The training
course will involve some study at the training centre and in the
evenings. You'll be assessed along the way to monitor your
progress.
You will need to return to the training centre within the first
year or so after joining us to further develop your skills. Courses
normally last no longer than five days at any one time.
Training courses are not residential and run weekdays from
8.30am to 5.00pm. Some evening work may be required. After
successful completion of the basic course, you'll start to provide
emergency cover at your local fire station.
You will be issued with a pager which will operate to alert you
to emergency incidents, for which your attendance is required at
the local fire station. If you are employed, you will need to seek
your employer's permission to release you for operational duties,
which may occur at weekends, weekdays or on evenings.
Because there is a requirement for you to attend your local fire
station promptly on being alerted to an emergency call, you will
need to be working and/or living near the fire station.
You'll be on probation for your first year and in development
until you demonstrate to your manager that you have achieved the
correct level of knowledge, skills and performance in your role as
a firefighter. When you have completed all the necessary training
and demonstrated competence, you will be paid a competent rate of
pay. Your performance will be continuously assessed.
Training and personal development will be an ongoing process.
Normally, training takes place once a week on a weekday
evening. Training evenings normally last for two hours and take
place between 7pm and 9pm. However, this may vary. You will be
expected to participate in relevant training and development
activity. This will enable you to take up skills such as first aid,
use of breathing apparatus, driving, health and safety, which will
benefit your primary employment, your employer and you.
You will be required to contribute to your own development and
record this. We want to make sure that you can handle safely the
ever-changing demands and hazards you might face in your
job.