Urgent volunteer plea to save fire cadet units
● fire could face closing some of if more volunteers from Cheshire, not found
Tto help run them HE county’s fire cadet scheme, which runs groups in Halton could close some of its units if it does not find more volunteers, with Runcorn particularly at risk.
Cheshire Fire And Rescue Service (CFRS) said there is a ‘desperate need’ for residents to step into the roles, which at present serve 350 cadets aged 12-17.
A CFRS spokeswoman said volunteers are needed to keep the 24 units going.
Firefighting experience is not necessary. The spokeswoman said being a Cheshire fire cadet volunteer is an exciting opportu- nity and those taking part can gain qualifications, develop skills and leadership qualities, support and inspire young people, meet like-minds and have fun.
The service has approximately 100 enthusiastic and committed adult volunteers but more are needed.
Cheshire’s fire cadets units are the largest voluntary scheme of its type in the country.
Runcorn fire cadets meet on a Wednesday night at Runcorn Fire Station, Heath Road, contact on 07964 109 329 or cadet05@cheshirefire.gov.uk
Widnes Fire Station’s unit also meets on a Wednesday, and can be contacted on 07964 107 704 or cadet04@cheshirefire.gov.uk
Nick Evans, CFRS head of pre- vention, said: “There is probably a bit of a myth about volunteering with fire cadets that you need some kind of firefighter experience, but that’s simply not true.
“You do, however, need drive and commitment in helping young people thrive in your local community, and that’s all we are asking for from our volunteers.
“We are urgently looking for people from all walks of life to help with our cadets and would urge anyone with a couple of hours spare each week to get in touch.
“If you speak to any of our volunteer cadet staff they will tell you they do it because they love it. They enjoy the fun, friendship, action, adventure and practical activities the fire cadets provides.
“They also enjoy making a difference to young people – helping them to achieve formal qualifications, building confidence and encouraging them to think for themselves and to act for others.
“All we ask is that you are able to give up one evening a week for a drill night.
“So, if you want to do something really rewarding with your free time, that’s local to you, then Cheshire Fire Cadets could be exactly what you’re looking for.
“I know that once you’ve joined you’ll never look back and I look forward to welcoming you to the team.”
Call the youth engagement team on 01606 868 654 or email vicky.wrest@cheshirefire.gov.uk