LONGER response times could await those in need as fire services struggle to recruit on-call firefighters.

Wareham Fire Station were unable to attend a road traffic collision in Purbeck on Monday, January 24, due to a lack of officers available.

As a result members of Poole Fire Station responded to the call-out.

In a post on social media, Wareham Fire Station repeated an urgent plea for firefighters - something they have done previously - though this problem is far-reaching across the region.

Group manager for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS), Charlie Pack, said: “Due to the nature of on-call cover, it’s not possible to give an exact number [of firefighters needed] as the number of firefighters available ebbs and flows on a daily basis, depending on their other commitments.

“However, we can say that it’s a common problem across a lot of on-call stations and is not indicative of just Wareham.

“With regards to services being affected, while some on-call stations may miss incidents, the next nearest available crew will always respond to a call-out.

“In the case of Wareham, as seen yesterday, this will usually be firefighters based in Poole, which could lead to a longer response time.”

DWFRS is looking for new on-call firefighters at stations including Wareham, Maiden Newton, Bere Regis and Cranborne.

They are looking for anyone who could provide availability during the day or at weekends, and flexible contracts are available for those who work shift systems.

On-call firefighters live and/or work within their local community, and are expected to respond to emergencies during whatever periods of cover have been agreed.

When the pager goes off, a firefighter can be called to a wide range of incidents, such as commercial and domestic fires, road traffic collisions, rescues from height or water, animal rescue or flooding.

Group manager Charlie Pack added: “The role of a firefighter is very rewarding, and it requires determination, courage, motivation, and a genuine desire to serve the community.

“Successful candidates will become part of a well-trained workforce, earning additional income, and gaining transferable skills such as first aid, driving qualifications and health and safety knowledge – which can also benefit them in their primary employment."

Visit dwfire.org.uk/on-call-firefighters or call Station Manager Neil Tidball on 07827 356549 to find out more about becoming an on-call firefighter.