Laois firefighters taking part in recruitment drive
Firefighters will be out and about in Abbeyleix as they look for new recruits
Laois firefighters will be out and about in Abbeyleix on Thursday, August 1 as part of their new recruitment drive.
Anyone interested in a career with Laois County Fire & Rescue Service is encouraged to stop and learn more about the job.
Laois County Council said: "If you see them please stop and say hello and if you are interested in a career in the Laois County Fire & Rescue Service please visit : https://laois.ie/abbeyleix-fire-station-recruitment-drive/."
They are looking for men and women to join the team to help in the community aged between 18 and 55.
"A firefighter can be called upon to tackle a wide range of emergency situations where problem solving skills and initiative will be vital to resolve issues quickly and calmly," they outlined.
"Incidents vary from firefighting and rescuing people from burning buildings to dealing with chemical incidents and road traffic collisions. A sensitive approach will be required when dealing with members of the public who may be distressed and confused.
"All new recruits undergo extensive initial training to equip them with the skills to be a Retained Firefighter. As well as responding to emergency calls and undertaking community fire safety initiatives, Retained Firefighters attend
weekly training nights to maintain competency levels and undertake routine checks on their equipment.
"On successful completion of the necessary courses, firefighters will achieve a Level 6 Certificate in Firefighting Operations under the National Framework of Qualifications. Other courses undertaken include manual handling, emergency medical skills, abrasive wheels, chainsaw and emergency driving."