05/02/2026
Application process for on-call firefighters
Thank you for your interest in working at Frome Fire Station and for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service. We are encouraging people who are interested in joining to meet your local crew and learn more about what becoming an on-call firefighter would involve. You can do this by contacting us on the details below
๐ Call: WM Jason Collier on 07912 143051
๐ง Email: [email protected]
๐ฑ Facebook: Frome Fire Station
๐ Drop in: Frome Fire Station, Keyford, Frome โ Thursdays between 19:00 and 21:00
There are a few steps to becoming a firefighter. This timeline will take you through the key stages in our application process and what to expect.
STEP ONE - Application
The first step to becoming a firefighter is the application form. This is where you fill in your personal details and explain how you meet the eligibility criteria.
It's here that youโll need to be clear about the cover youโre able to provide. The candidates that match the cover that we need at the time will then be brought forward.
Initially, you must only submit one application. When you apply you will be asked to input your National Insurance number in your application form which we will use to identify multiple applications.
Seven top tips to ace your application
No matter what role you apply for in the Service, the first step to your dream role is completing our application form. Youโll need to show how you have the personal qualities, attributes and experience needed to do the job. Itโs your opportunity to really shine.
๐ Research the organisation and study the advert. You want your passion and enthusiasm for the role to shine through.
๐ Use sub-headings to make it clear which part of the job specification youโre demonstrating. This will also help you keep track of the areas youโve answered.
๐ Give recent examples and take responsibility for them by using โIโ instead of โweโ or โtheyโ. Own your achievements! Remember that examples donโt need to be job-related, as long as they are relevant to the role.
๐ Use the STAR method to help structure your examples. Set out the situation, the task, the action you took and the result.
๐ Keep it concise; using unnecessary words or repetition will use up valuable word count. Quality is far more important than quantity.
๐ Check, check and check again โ make sure that youโve proof read your application for spelling or grammar errors.
๐ Ask a family member or friend to take a look at your application. A fresh pair of eyes can help spot any mistakes or help you clarify what you mean.
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Apply today: https://www.dsfire.gov.uk/careers/vacancies/call-firefighter-vacancies-1
STEP TWO - Online tests
If you are unable to evidence Maths and English GCSE Grade C/4 or higher, then you will be required to complete two online ability tests in mathematics and verbal reasoning.
Youโll receive an email link inviting you to take the test, with practice tests too. You can have a go at the practice tests as many times as you like.
STEP THREE - Interview
Now itโs time for the interview. This is done face-to-face, and youโll be asked about your experience, knowledge and skills. Itโs here that we want to see whether youโve got the qualities weโre looking for.
STEP FOUR - Fitness test and practical assessments
This element will not only assess your fitness, but your alignment to our core values and your conduct on the day. An important part of being a firefighter is making sure you have a good level of fitness. We assess this through a bleep test.
You'll also do practical assessments, involving the following:
๐ Ladder lift
๐ Ladder climb
๐ Equipment assembly
๐ Equipment carry
๐ Breathing apparatus and confined space
STEP FIVE - Medical and pre-employment checks
Weโll carry out a medical and further fitness assessment to make sure youโre able to do the role. This includes:
๐ Height and weight measurement to give an idea of general health
๐ Blood pressure test
๐ Urinalysis
๐ An eye test (with and without glasses if you wear them)
๐ A breathing test to check your lung function
๐ A hearing test
๐ V02 max fitness assessment.
You will attend a medical facilitated by our occupational health provider. They will ask questions about your health and any disabilities or medical needs you may have. All cases are looked at individually while following professional medical guidance.
Our fitness advisers will carry out a fitness assessment as part of the medical called a VO2 max test. You will jog on a treadmill wearing a facemask while connected to an analyser. The gradient and speed will gradually increase. This will measure your lung capacity. This test equates to level 8.8 on the bleep test.
You'll also complete pre-employment checks which will include:
๐ Right to Work
๐ Minimum of three years of references
๐ Driving licence check
๐ Standard DBS check
STEP SIX - Contract
Following the medical and pre-employment stage, once everything is cleared, we will confirm an initial recruits' course date and youโll receive a contract of employment.
CONGRATULATIONS ๐ฅณ
Once you've reached this stage, it's time to celebrate!