A pilot scheme which has successfully recruited Community Volunteers to support West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service's Home Fire Safety Check Campaign is now being extended into the Midhurst and Petworth area.
 
The pilot, launched last autumn in Littlehampton, recruited Community Volunteers to deliver fire safety leaflets to households and then arrange follow-up home fire safety checks by Fire & Rescue Service personnel.
 
The scheme has proved so successful it is now being extended into the Midhurst and Petworth area and in addition volunteers will now be trained to carry out the Home Fire Safety Checks themselves.
 
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service Volunteer Manager, Emma Francis, explained: "We're delighted the scheme has had such a successful start and it's been fantastic to see our volunteers out delivering such an invaluable service. The pilot has proved that there is both the desire and the skills within the local community to support our most important home fire safety campaign.
 
"We are now extending this scheme into the Midhurst and Petworth area and are looking for people who are interested in delivering our life-saving Home Fire Safety Checks in their spare time. We'd welcome applications from anyone over the age of 16 who is willing to commit to a minimum of 8 hours volunteering each month.
 
"Ideally, we are looking for people with good communication skills who are keen to help people within their own communities. In return you'll receive full training for the role, have the opportunity to learn new skills and be a valued part of a passionate and dedicated team that is committed to saving lives."
 
To find out more about becoming a Community Volunteer or for an application pack, please contact Emma Francis on 07703 886574
or email emma.francis@westsussex.gov.uk
 
 
Note:
A home fire safety check is a free service carried out by West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service. It involves a pre-arranged visit by a firefighter or Community Safety Advisor to a resident's home to offer advice on how to make it safer. They will also fit smoke alarms or other specialist protection or detection or equipment where appropriate.