Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service is inviting people, who are interested in becoming on-call firefighters, to attend a drill night at their local station. 

This will give prospective candidates the chance to meet crew members, watch them train and find out more about what the role involves. 

The fire service is currently recruiting on-call firefighters at on-call stations across the county including Gnosall, Ipstones and Uttoxeter. 

Sophie Laird, who has been an on-call firefighter at Gnosall Community Fire Station for around 16 months, said: "When I was going through the application process, I went down to Gnosall station to watch a drill night and it was really useful to see the crew in action and how everything works. 

"I was really nervous, but I saw how friendly everyone was and it really put me at ease." 

Drill nights allow firefighters practice for emergencies and develop skills. 

They also use the time to check equipment and fire engines.  

Sophie said: "It's brilliant practice for real-life scenarios but it's also great for building relationships with the team, so that we know how each other work when a real job comes in. 

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"For a few drill nights before my 12-month assessment, the crew simulated what I'd be getting on the assessment so I could practice.  

"It made me feel really prepared for what was going to happen on the day." 

Anyone aged 18 and over who lives or works close to an on-call station can apply to become an on-call firefighter. 

All applicants will go through the same recruitment and training process. 

To find out when a station is holding a drill night, those keen to attend should visit the on-call firefighter recruitment website. 

This is also where people can submit applications. 

Sophie said: "If you're thinking of applying for on-call, it's definitely worth coming down and having a look, it's a great opportunity to meet the crew and ask any questions you might have!" 

Applications close on Friday 10 April. 

(Header image via Mick Malpass on Geograph)