I tried being a firefighter - here's why more women should

It is clear to understand why when you look at national statistics considering only 8.2 per cent of the workforce was made up of women in 2022, according to the gov.uk website.

In light of this, Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service has set up a new campaign to get more women and ethnic minorities into the job.

So I decided to slip into a pair of reflective fireproof trousers, grab a hard hat and participate in some of the training required to be a firefighter.

Me learning how to put on the breathing apparatus used by firefighters. (Image: NQ)

The first doubt that crossed my mind was whether I was physically fit enough to participate in the training, let alone progress to saving lives.

In school, I was never a top performer in PE, so the thought of jogging laps while carrying heavy equipment did come as a worry.

I am a writer, not an athlete.

The training consists of carrying various objects for several meters and back to recreate what would be expected of you on the job.

I must admit I was actually quite surprised with my abilities.

Some of the items that needed to be carried. (Image: NQ)

The equipment was heavy but definitely carriable, and the team helped me understand what I needed to do and supported me through the process.

One section involved carrying a 55kg 'person' to recreate saving a person from a fire and this was probably the most challenging part of the training.

But, I was reassured that when it comes to carrying people, this can be a two-person job.

As a person with no prior experience or great fitness levels, for that matter, it was nice to feel supported and know that it was okay to have no experience because you are there to learn. 

A demonstration took place before any of the training. (Image: NQ)

Peter Hope, an on-call support officer for Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, said: "We are interested in receiving applications from those who are underrepresented, like females and ethnic minority groups (as part of their hiring campaign). 

"Some reasons behind that are myths surrounding what you need to do to be a firefighter."

These myths include high fitness levels, a lack of flexibility, and managing time around childcare and school times.

The team has a number of contracts to fit around people's lifestyles, and despite needing a basic level of fitness, there are plans HWFR service provides to help applicants in their fitness journey.

On-call recruits must be over 18 and work or live within five minutes of the fire station.

For now, I think I will stick to reporting on fires rather than fighting them.

However, for anyone considering applying, there will be awareness sessions on Wednesday, October 11 at 5.30pm and 7pm and on  Thursday, October 19 at 7pm at Worcester Fire Station.