Over the Christmas period, it is business as usual for us
here at Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service. However, for our newest batch
of firefighters, this year will be their first year on duty.
Chantelle Haywood started her firefighter training in June
this year, and is now an on-call firefighter at Collingham Fire station. This
year she is on duty from Christmas Eve until Boxing Day.
Chantelle said: “Being a firefighter is all about giving
back to the community and helping people, so I am looking forward to being on
duty over Christmas.
“I am nervous as I am expecting it to be busier than usual
due to the demand from the pandemic, but I joined the fire service as I wanted
to do something that would push me out of my comfort zone so I am ready for the
shouts if they come in.”
Charlotte Upcott became a wholetime firefighter on 30
September 2020 and is currently at Arnold Fire Station.
Charlotte and her watch will be on duty for four days between
Christmas and New Year.
Charlotte said: “I love that people come together over the
festive period. Being a firefighter on duty means we get to see the very best
people with their generous efforts and donations, including present drop offs
for children that might not get anything else.
“I wanted to become a firefighter for a few reasons. I was
very fortunate to have been an elite athlete for 13 years where I had an entire
support team around me, so it was key that in my new career I was able to help
people and make a positive difference.
“I wanted to feel proud of the work I do and have a strong
purpose in life, and working at Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service has
really given me that.”