What is the fitness test for Wholetime Firefighters?
As part of our Wholetime Firefighters fitness tests you will be required to complete the Bleep Test to a level 8.6, as well as the completion of 3 strength tests. These include Equipment Grip and Carry (testing aerobic endurance and grip), Ladder Haul-Aloft (testing upper body strength) and a Push-Pull test. If you are considering applying, it is advisable that you start working on your fitness and strength in advance. If you are successful at the early stages of the process, you will then be ready for the fitness test. It is also important that you maintain your fitness.
If I am a Wholetime Firefighter, can I have a second job?
Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service has a service policy that secondary employment has to be authorised by the Service. Any application for secondary employment from an employee on our Firefighter Apprenticeship scheme will only be considered after six months of service.
Can I choose which fire station to work at?
Unfortunately not. As a Firefighter you agree to serve at any station within Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service. All successful candidates may be required to work within any of the duty systems employed within BFRS. When placing Firefighters we must take into account where we need to fill vacancies. However, we will review skills of all new employees and try to place them at a station and watch that will help them develop further.
What are different coloured watches?
Operational employees working at a fire station which runs a shift system are split into four rota groups known as ‘watches’ – White, Red, Blue and Green. The four rota groups ensure we can provide a continual service 24 hours a day, seven days a week, from that station.
Do you have separate changing facilities for male and female Firefighters?
Every Firefighter has access to a room which can be used as a private changing facility if required.
Do I need to be able to swim?
All of our Firefighters are trained in water rescue and therefore applicants need to be able to swim and be able to rescue themselves from calm water.
Do I need to be able to drive?
Yes, you need to hold a full UK driving licence with no pending issues at the point of application.
Do Wholetime Firefighters have to work weekends and public holidays?
Firefighters whose shift/work pattern falls on a weekend or public holiday will be required to work. There is the option to take leave, subject to a maximum number of people being on leave at any one time. This is to make sure our fire appliances have enough people on duty to crew them. Firefighters who are required to work a public holiday will receive the relevant enhanced pay.
Is there an age limit for Wholetime Firefighter applicants?
You have to be a minimum of 18-years old at the start of your employment. There is no upper age limit. As long as you are physically fit and can pass the fitness test you can become a Firefighter.
