DEVON and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service is looking to recruit people in Chagford who would like to become retained firefighters. The ideal prospective firefighter starts with a commitment to the community, a positive attitude and a good level of fitness. No previous experience of firefighting is necessary. This is an opportunity for men and women who live or work within five minutes' response time to the fire station to potentially save lives in fire, flood and road traffic emergencies. Being on-call means you provide a level of cover while at work or at home and when you are needed, your pager will alert you to attend the station. People who can give cover during the day and some weekends are particularly needed. Many people have primary occupations while on-call — either employed or self-employed. The service has examples of employees in factories, shops, takeaways and restaurants who are on-call firefighters. Any applicants must be over 18 and have a good level of fitness and strength, though people can overestimate the levels required and allow this to deter them from applying. Equally, living with a disability is not automatically a barrier to operational firefighting. It depends on the nature of the disability. Once recruited, full training is provided. The service will give people advice and help in preparing for both the written and practical assessments. The service is an inclusive employer, and is working towards a workforce which reflects the local community. If you are interested, come to the Square in Chagford on Saturday, June 14 at 10am, or to the fire station on Lower Street on a Wednesday evening from 7pm to 9pm to find out what it means to be an on-call firefighter.