Rachel

I first became interested in becoming a firefighter after going to a presentation at Bolton Fire Station. As I took the station tour I realised that all the photographs were of male firefighters. I knew I wanted to change that. So I spoke to some of the firefighters at the presentation about this and they encouraged me to join. In fairness, I’ve received nothing but encouragement from them ever since.

I’m now a probationary fire fighter and on every ‘Shout’ my Watch Manager is there to advise and encourage me. And that’s the same now as it was on my first call out.

I remember a warehouse fire early in my career; I was tackling the fire on the ground and asked my watch manger if I could help combat the fire from the hydraulic platform. Once up there I thought it was the most surreal experience as just five months earlier I was at an open day wishing I was doing just this. This is a prime example of how quickly you can progress and how the Service is always open to letting you fulfil your ambitions.

Of course we always have to be well prepared, so we have station drills on every shift; this means working with the pump, equipment, ladders, and weights. There is lots of support both at training centre and in my station. You are treated as an equal and there has never been a moment I’ve felt otherwise. Although, you do have to be thick skinned, as we all like a laugh. And there is an element of having to prove yourself, but that’s no different from any new job, regardless of what you do.

In terms of acceptance in to the Service, I’ve found I get more of a reaction from the public as opposed to my colleagues. I sometimes hear people ask, “Is that a woman?” But it doesn’t bother me, not when I’ve got the support of my family – they’ve always been very supportive and proud – and the support of my colleagues.

I know that I have to maintain a good level of fitness because I need to be strong as there is lots of heavy lifting involved. For instance, I’m running the NY marathon this year. But that’s just my approach; I find it helps to give myself something to train for every year.

However, people and communication skills are also important. I brought a lot of these skills from my previous role, which shows that whatever you’re doing now could help you in the future as a firefighter. This is because the profession has changed completely. Now it’s more important to be strong-minded, emotionally balanced, focused, ambitious, and positive – rather than to be just strong.

Fire fighting is a rewarding role that is both challenging and mentally stimulating. And if you’re determined, you can rise up through the ranks very quickly.