Should you’re on the lookout for a profession that actually makes a difference, look no further…
From providing medical care and apprehending criminals, to managing disasters and conducting rescue missions, emergency services roles are essential to public safety and well-being. But what job options can be found, and what do it’s good to get hired?
To make your prospects clearer, listed below are a couple of of the most well-liked emergency services careers, what they involve, and our advice on how one can start:
Firefighter
What does the role involve? Firefighters reply to fires, traffic accidents, chemical spills, and other emergencies. Their duties include rescuing people and animals, administering first aid, educating the general public about fire safety, and maintaining fire fighting equipment.
What qualifications do I want to develop into a Firefighter? You’ll must be at the least 18 years old to begin a profession as a Firefighter, with a great level of physical fitness. You’ll also need to finish (and pass) the firefighter selection process, followed by a 12 week firefighter training programme. GCSEs in English and Maths are helpful but not all the time essential.
Perfect for: People who find themselves good at putting out fires (the literal kind).
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Paramedic/EMT (Emergency Medical Technician)
What does the role involve? Paramedics provide critical pre-hospital care, including emergency medical treatment and transportation. They reply to 999 calls, assess patients’ conditions, and administer essential treatments on the scene or en path to hospitals.
What qualifications do I want to develop into a Paramedic/EMT? To develop into a Paramedic or EMT, you’ll first need a full UK driving licence (with Category C1 for larger vehicles). Aspiring EMTs will then need to achieve a diploma in Emergency Care Assistance (or an apprenticeship). To qualify as a Paramedic, a paramedic science degree alongside registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) is important.
Perfect for: Individuals who know exactly how one can react in a ‘Code Red’ situation.
develop into a Paramedic
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Police Officer
What does the role involve? Police Officers implement laws, reply to emergencies, conduct investigations, and ensure public safety. Their duties include patrolling neighbourhoods, arresting suspects, gathering evidence, and providing support to victims of crime.
What qualifications do I want to develop into a Police Officer? Firstly, you’ll must be 18 or over to develop into a Police Officer, with GCSEs in English and Maths. You’ll then must pass the police selection process, which incorporates assessments, interviews, fitness tests, and background checks. When you’ve passed this stage, you’ll undertake initial police training, which may be done through the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA), a level in skilled policing, or the Degree Holder Entry Programme (DHEP).
Perfect for: Individuals who wish to lay down the law.
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999 Dispatcher (Emergency Call Handler)
What does it involve? 999 Dispatchers, also often called Emergency Call Handlers, answer emergency calls and coordinate response units. They supply critical information to each responders and the general public, ensuring that assistance is dispatched quickly and efficiently.
What qualifications do I want to develop into a 999 Dispatcher? You’ll must be at the least 18 years old to develop into a 999 Dispatcher, with GCSEs in English and Maths, alongside strong communication and IT skills. You’ll also need to finish a dispatcher training programme, but this can be provided by the employer.
Perfect for: Individuals who never panic. Ever.
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Lifeguard
What does it involve? Lifeguards monitor a spread of swimming areas equivalent to indoor pools, oceans and inland waterways to make sure the security of swimmers. They perform rescues, administer first aid, and implement safety rules.
What qualifications do I want to develop into a Lifeguard? To develop into a Lifeguard, you’ll need to finish the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ), which incorporates training in pool safety, rescue techniques, first aid, and CPR. Moreover, it’s good to have first aid certification, training in the usage of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), and an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Unsurprisingly, strong swimming skills are also a prerequisite.
Perfect for: Individuals who don’t mind being thrown in on the deep end.
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Honourable mentions: Search and Rescue (SAR) Technician, Coast Guard Officer, Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) Technician, Disaster Response Coordinator, Prison Officer, Mountain Rescue Team Member, Bomb Disposal Expert (EOD Technician).
Ready to begin a profession in emergency services? View all vacancies now, or develop your skills with a course.
