The events are aimed at those who are strong, fit, enthusiastic, and passionate about protecting the local community.
A number of “Come and Try” days will be held ahead of a new recruitment drive(Image: Kelvin Boyes/PressEye)
The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service have launched a new bid to recruit female firefighters by offering women the chance to try their hands at the role.
Ahead of its Wholetime Firefighter recruitment campaign launching in June 2026, the NIFRS have invited women who are interested in a career as a Wholetime Firefighter to attend one of a number of “come and try” days.
These events are aimed at those who are strong, fit, enthusiastic and have a passion for protecting the local community and will offer women a hands-on introduction to the role of a Firefighter, provide the opportunity to learn more about the job, and hear directly from other female Firefighters about their experiences.
NIFRS is continuing to build a diverse and inclusive workforce, with the number of female Wholetime Firefighters increasing over the past 5 years from 4.97 per cent to 9.56 per cent.
The events will take place at Central Fire Station (Belfast) on Sunday 7 June and Saturday 13 June; Crescent Link Fire Station (Derry) on Saturday 6 June; Omagh Fire Station on Sunday 14 June; Antrim Fire Station on Saturday 6 June and Armagh Fire Station on Saturday 13 June.
Participants must be aged 17 and over and will have the option to attend either a morning session (10am – 12.30pm) or an afternoon session (2pm – 4.30pm) at each event.
Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service Station Commander Nicola McSherry said: “We’re delighted to offer women across Northern Ireland the opportunity to attend one of our Come and Try Days if they are considering Firefighting as a career.
“These events are about building confidence, breaking down misconceptions and giving women an opportunity to ask questions and find out what is actually involved, particularly in terms of strength and fitness. Modern firefighting is not only about responding to operational incidents; it’s about engaging with our community, providing safety advice and helping prevent emergencies.
“I would encourage anyone interested to come along, meet our crews and find out more about a career in Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service.”
Places are strictly limited, so to register your interest and reserve a place click here.
For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.
