Business Fire Safety Officer Eilish Thornton.
She once worked at Walt Disney World in Florida but now she’s helping to keep people safe from fire across County Durham and Darlington.
Eilish Thornton is our Business Fire Safety Officer who ensures that businesses comply with fire safety legislation.
The 27-year-old from Stockton joined us last August from Cleveland Fire Brigade UK Brigade where she worked as a Fire Safety Advisor.
“Our aim in fire safety is to always offer advice and assistance where we can, whilst ensuring the people who enter and live in buildings are safe,” Eilish said.
“I have found an unexpected yet great passion for the specialism of fire safety.
“Every day is a learning day in my job - whether that’s in the classroom or applying theory knowledge practically on visits.
“I like to be organised but having to juggle lots of demands and adapt at short notice is definitely one of the best things about my job.
“I love being part of an establishment who strive to keep the people it serves safe.”
While Eilish says that fire safety has her heart, she admits that she had very different aspirations growing up, having set her sights on a career as a dancer.
“Dancing is still a huge passion of mine, so still I attend dance classes and often cover teaching as well,” she said.
“When I haven’t got my head deep in fire safety guidance, I love spending time with friends and family.”
Travel is another of Eilish’s interests and after graduating from university she worked at Walt Disney World in Florida in The Rose and Crown pub, located in the UK Pavilion of EPCOT.
“I have also completed a four-day trek of the Inca Trails to Machu Picchu in 2023,” she said.
“This was top of the bucket list for me at the time and was an overwhelmingly fantastic experience.”
