Meet Robert

Name:  Robert

Occupation: retired

Can you tell us about your background?

“I’m ex RAF Fire and Rescue Service and ex-military. I spent 12 years in the Air force, 10 years in the army and was an NHS Fire Safety advisor for 35 years.”

What is your role as a HIWFRS volunteer and how long have you been volunteering with us?

“I’ve been volunteering for about 4 years with the Service. I started out as a Fire Cadet Instructor and then became a Community Volunteer.

As a Community volunteer I help to promote Safe and Well visits, support with community events and station open days.

Since last year, I’ve also been taking part in joint patrols with Forestry England Park Rangers, advising members of the public on the risks of barbecues and campfires in the New Forest.”

What inspired you to volunteer for the fire service?

“I wanted to carry on helping people. I feel I have lots of skills, knowledge and experience to offer. I’m passionate about helping members of our community and supporting the service.”

What do you get out of volunteering?

“Being part of a team gives me a sense of community – it’s good for sharing ideas, meeting new people and building relationships with fire service colleagues as well as other volunteers.”

What difference do you feel volunteering makes?

“There is a public need for fire safety advice and with my experience (and resources from HWFRS), I feel able to support the Service by educating the community through promoting Safe and Well visits, at events and during the forest patrols. Fire Service personnel are so busy that they can’t be everywhere, so volunteers help to give the fire service a presence in the community – we act as representatives.”

Are there any particular highlights that have stood out during your time volunteering with the fire service?

“This year alone, I’ve taken part in 5 patrols in the New Forest so far. On a recent patrol with the Head Ranger, unfortunately we found a large piece of grassland that had been scorched. This was a great reminder to me of why the patrols we do in partnership with Forestry England Park Rangers are so important.

I’ve enjoyed chatting to members of the public during the patrols and making them aware of the dangers and potential risks of forest fires and the damage this can do to wildlife and the landscape.”

What would you say to other people who might be considering applying to become a fire service volunteer?

“Volunteering in any role or organisation would be a great benefit to our country.
I would really encourage anyone to volunteer with the Fire Service as the role is so varied and it’s a chance to meet some great people. It’s a chance to help others and learn new skills at the same time.”