Most people don’t realise that many UK fire engines are crewed by retained firefighters—fully trained responders who also hold other jobs but drop everything when an emergency call comes in. They handle the same incidents as full‑time crews and play a major role in community safety work.
Retained staff make up most of the Fire and Rescue Service, especially in Oxfordshire, where most stations rely on them. They’re cost‑effective, come from all kinds of professions, and usually miss only one to two hours of work a week. Employers benefit from staff who are fitter, safety‑trained, and highly committed.
Recruits must live or work close to their station and be physically and mentally fit. Anyone interested, employers or potential firefighters can contact their local station for guidance. Andy Ford, with 14 years’ service, says the role remains hugely rewarding.