A day in the life of a local firefighter

Here, a locally based wholetime & retained firefighter, based at Ballymena Fire Station, David McComb, who has been six years in the job, gives an insight into the role.

Q. Describe a typical day?

A. A typical day is making yourself available to respond to calls which mean you have to be able to get to the Station within five minutes.

Q. Why did you want to become a Firefighter?

A. I joined the NI Fire & Rescue Service as I thought it would be interesting and exciting. I wanted to get the chance to help people which has given me great job satisfaction.

Q. What is the difference between a Wholetime and a Community Firefighter?

A. The main difference is in relation to the work pattern. Wholetime Firefighters are based at the Station and shifts. Community Firefighters respond to fire calls when alerted by pager.

Q. What aspects do you enjoy the most and least?

A. Being a Firefighter is something I really enjoy and you are able to help people out of some difficult situations. The down side to the job is that, unfortunately, you do come across tragic circumstances such as a fatality.

Q Would you recommend a career as a Community Firefighter?

Yes, it teaches you discipline and new skills that benefit you outside the job.