Stories & Articles
The Blog
Articles, behind-the-scenes features, video write-ups and community posts from the UK fire service world.

Behind the Scenes with Manchester Airport Fire & Rescue Service
We spent the day with Manchester Airport Fire & Rescue Service, joining Green Watch under the command of Station Manager Sam Marshall to see what goes on behind the scenes at one of the UK's busiest airports.

London Fire Brigade to Return to Historic Lambeth Headquarters
After nearly two decades away, London Fire Brigade has been given the green light to move back to its iconic Albert Embankment home, with a major refurbishment set to breathe new life into the 1930s landmark.

UK Fire Magazine Photography Competition: Winners Announced
We reveal the winning entries from our joint photography competition with UK Fire Magazine, with the top images set to feature in the November issue.

Firefighter Health Monitoring: What Should a National Standard Deliver?
Work has begun on the Firefighters Concordat on Health and Wellbeing. The FBU reports the first meeting of the government working group has taken place, but the content, delivery and timing of a national health monitoring offer are still being developed.
Applying to Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service? Here's What to Check Before You Apply
Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service has opened applications for 16 full-time Wholetime Firefighter roles. Here's a practical guide to eligibility, preparation and key dates before applications close on Sunday 11 October 2026.

Doncaster Sheffield Airport Is Hiring Trainee Firefighters
Doncaster Sheffield Airport is reopening, and its Airport Fire & Rescue Service is looking for Trainee Firefighters to help build a modern, professional emergency response team from day one. Earn while you learn on the Level 3 Operational Firefighter Apprenticeship.

Built for the Job — But Is It Built for the Firefighter?
As UK summers become hotter and fire appliances continue to evolve, should air conditioning, seating ergonomics and crew welfare become core requirements when new frontline appliances are purchased?

The Call I’ll Never Forget
A routine shift took an unexpected turn when we were called to Borås Zoo to help a five-tonne elephant that could no longer stand. This is the story of one of the strangest calls of my career.

How Do Firefighters Across Europe Actually Want to Work?
Sweden’s biggest change to firefighter working time in more than 40 years removed much of the flexibility that firefighters and fire services had relied on. Four years later, that dispute has led to a 17-language survey asking how firefighters across Europe actually work, and how they would prefer to work.

Just Days Left to Shape Avon's Future Fire Plans
Avon Fire & Rescue Service is urging communities across the West Country to have their say on the risks that matter most — with the CRMP consultation closing on 29 September.