On-call firefighter Olivia Selby.
A passion for helping people meant that being an on-call firefighter was the perfect job for Olivia Selby.
The 19-year-old joined our Service in September 2023 and is based at Consett Fire Station.
The former Fire Cadet now responds to emergency incidents such as fires and road traffic collisions within five minutes of being alerted by her pager.
Olivia also works part-time for Vital Fire Solutions (VFS) - the trading arm of the Service - in fire ground safety and passes on her knowledge to the next generation in her role as a Fire Cadet Leader.
“I joined the Cadets when I was little as being a firefighter is something that I have always wanted to do,” Olivia said.
“I really like helping people, so it is the perfect job for me.
“I enjoy all aspects of being a firefighter, but wearing Breathing Apparatus (BA) is definitely my favourite part of the job as I love the adrenaline I get from it.”
Olivia, who has now set her sights on becoming a wholetime firefighter in the future, said she is incredibly proud to have achieved her childhood dream of joining the Service.
“I feel really proud to be an on-call firefighter and serving the community where I live,” she said.
“It is so rewarding knowing that I am working towards making a difference in the community.
“My mam thinks it’s brilliant that I’m an on-call firefighter and tells everyone as she’s really proud!”
We're recruiting on-call firefighters and no experience is required.
Being an on-call firefighter means you are 'on call' to respond to a range of emergencies.
You can still continue to do your everyday job, but when the call comes, you will become a professional firefighter.
If you live or work within five minutes of a fire station and you want to become an on-call firefighter, visit: On-call Firefighters - Applications NOW OPEN | County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service
