Become a firefighter

Hertfordshire fire and rescue service is holding two events to encourage people who are currently under-represented in the fire service to find out more about being a firefighter.

The workshops and exercises will give participants an introduction to the service, an overview of the role of a firefighter and the overall selection process.

Chief fire officer, Roy Wilsher said: "Women and people from minority groups are currently under-represented in operational roles in the fire and rescue service and this is why many people perceive firefighting as a white, male occupation.

"Typically these groups of people do not consider a career with the fire service and this is something we want to change.

"We want to make the fire service a job of choice for everyone.

"We recruit firefighters on the basis of required skills for the job, regardless of their gender, sexuality or cultural background and I would encourage people who are considering changing their career to come along to these events to find out more."

• The first event for women will be held on Saturday, January 12 at Hertfordshire fire and rescue service's training centre in Longfield, Stevenage.

• The second event for black, Asian and other ethnic minorities, which will also be held at the service's training centre, will be held on Saturday, January 19.

County Councillor Richard Smith, executive member for community safety said: "It is vital that the modern fire service represents the community it serves.

"A firefighter's role has changed considerably over recent years and now, thanks to more prevention work, less than 10 per cent of their time is spent fighting fires."

The events will run from 9.30am until 5pm. Places are limited - so if you are interested book a place in advance by visiting www.hertsdirect.org/fire