A new appeal has been launched to try and recruit on-call firefighters.

Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service says that on-call staff promote safety, save lives and form a vital part of the local community.

All six districts in Cumbria need part-time firefighters.

In the north and west of the county vacancies exist in Alston, Brampton, Longtown, Shap, Patterdale and Kirkby Stephen and the towns and villages of Bootle, Cockermouth, Egremont, Millom, Seascale, Silloth, Wigton and Workington.

Kasey Grainger, recruitment officer with CFRS, said: “An on-call firefighter is a person who is 'on call' to respond to a range of emergencies.

“They are doing everyday jobs until the call comes, then they become professional firefighters. They may be part-time, but they are trained and capable people in the front line, saving lives.

"On-call firefighters are paid for their services, they receive thorough training plus all there is to know about emergency situations."

She continued: “They do not just fight fires - they can be involved in a wide variety of situations which can include incidents ranging from floods, road accidents and chemical spills to retrieving pets from awkward situations.

“On average, you could be called out two or three times a week for a couple of hours. Each station is different and some are busier than others.

"If you can't be available all of the time it's not a problem. We are particularly keen to hear from people who are available during weekdays and weekends.”

On-call/part-time firefighters come from every walk of life, including shopkeepers, builders, plumbers, farmers, secretaries, engineers and directors of companies together with people who are not currently employed. Previous experience is not required as full training will be given.

Kasey added: “What is important is that you are enthusiastic and can meet certain essential requirements.

"One of these is that you must be able to respond quickly to the fire station after being alerted by the bleeper that Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service provides to all its on-call firefighter personnel.

"This can be physically demanding and therefore physical fitness is of utmost importance.”

For more information visit kasey.grainger@cumbria.gov.uk or call 07930 973388 or visit www.cumbria.gov.uk/cumbriafire/workforcfrs/oncallfirefighters.asp