To be considered for selection as a firefighter you must be a
resident of the UK and be at least 18 years old and of good
character. You must not have a current criminal conviction.
You will be required to pass certain rigorous physical and job
related tests such as:
- A written test and interview to check your personal qualities
and attributes including; commitment to equal opportunities and
diversity, literacy, numeracy, verbal reasoning and spatial
awareness;
- Shuttle run;
- Working within confined spaces using breathing apparatus;
- Working on a ladder at heights; and
- Running out a length of fire hose.
You will also be required to undergo a medical, hearing and eye
examinations to make sure you're fit enough to undertake
firefighting duties. You must have good eyesight, without glasses
or contact lenses. This is defined as 6/6 left eye and 6/6 right
eye as measured by the Snellen test. Good colour vision (as tested
by Ishihara plates) is also essential. Your eyesight will be tested
by a qualified ophthalmologist. Laser treatment is
acceptable.