ESBE PAYS TRIBUTE TO ITS PART-TIME FIREFIGHTERS
2021-09-07
In Sweden, 16,000 men and women work as firefighters. Of these, about 10,700 are part-time firefighters, which means that in addition to their professional role as firefighters, they also have a regular job. To draw attention to these everyday heroes, the “Firefighter-at-work-day” is organized annually by RRB (The Swedish Emergency Services Agency's Organization for Contingency Issues). This year, this day is on September 7th, 2021.
Among ESBE's talented colleagues in Sweden are three people who, in addition to their regular duties, also work as part-time firefighters.
At ESBE, safety is a priority. The fact that we have employees who work as part-time firefighters is an asset, not only for the society but also for us as a company. We are proud that we have not just one – but three, part-time firefighters who are ready to set off on call when needed.
We praise these colleagues a little extra here and now.
Thank you for being there!
Sabine Broy, assembler
How come you started out as a part-time firefighter?
“As a little girl, I came in contact with the voluntary fire brigade in my home country Germany. We often met friends who lived in the country side, and there it’s common to be part of a voluntary fire brigade. I grew up in the capital Berlin and would become anything but a firefighter.
After moving to Sweden, I came across representatives of Reftele's part-time firefighters in various contexts. The thought came back, but since I was had a newborn child and lived outside Reftele, it just remained a thought. Eventually we moved in to Reftele, I started exercising regularly and after a bit of encouragement I decided now was the time. I wanted to be a part-time firefighter!”
For how long have you been a part-time firefighter?
“For a year and a half. And there will be many more.”
What’s the best thing about being a part-time firefighter?
“The feeling you get when you have helped someone and / or society - is indescribable, and it is by far the best thing about being a part-time firefighter. Community is another important factor. Working in teams, laughing and crying together… it is balm for the soul.”
Is there anything an employer needs to think about when there are part-time firefighters among the employees?
“That you need to quickly let go of your employee no matter what he or she is doing. A meeting may be interrupted, a machine suddenly comes to a standstill, a repair is delayed, a call is interrupted ... but is it that big of a deal if you meanwhile saved a human life?”
How does ESBE respond to you being a part-time firefighter and have to set off on call at any time?
“Very positive! In the beginning, maybe there was a question that I’m a girl and the profession is tough. But if you exercise, you can do it.”
How come you started out as a part-time firefighter?
“I was persuaded to apply, mainly by a colleague at ESBE. When I then understood that there is a great shortage of part-time firefighters in Reftele, I thought it was important to contribute.”
For how long have you been a part-time firefighter?
“Since June 2020.”
What’s the best thing about being a part-time firefighter?
“it’s a good community, but it also gives a little excitement in your everyday life. When the alarm goes off, all focus is just on that, nothing else.”
Is there anything an employer needs to think about when there are part-time firefighters among the employees?
“An employer needs to keep in mind that a part-time firefighter must be able to rush off on alarm immediately. A part-time firefighter may therefore need someone to take over the tasks if there is something that can’t wait.”
How does ESBE respond to you being a part-time firefighter and have to set off on call at any time?
“I have only positive things to say. ESBE values our efforts.”
Robert Hållstedt, production technician
Dan Blomqvist, maintenance technician
How come you started out as a part-time firefighter?
“It’s an exciting profession that, if you want to make a difference for people, gives a lot in return. When you have done something that ended well, it considers the events that are less fun.”
For how long have you been a part-time firefighter?
“For 25 years, with a few months break.”
What’s the best thing about being a part-time firefighter?
“For the same reason I once started as a part-time firefighter. After 25 years, it still feels good to have the opportunity to help people in various difficult situations. To make a difference.”
Is there anything an employer needs to think about when there are part-time firefighters among the employees?
“They must understand that there can be an emergency call at any time and then I immediately leave my chores. An employer also gets an extra competency into the bargain when they hire a part-time firefighter. If something happens at work, I am there and can help immediately.”
How does ESBE respond to you being a part-time firefighter and have to set off on call at any time?
“ESBE has always been very positive and encouraging to my position as a part-time firefighter.”
The emergency service in Reftele in numbers, 2021
Number of inhabitants in Reftele: about 1,300
Number of firefighters: 10 (of which three women)
Staffing: 1 supervisor and 2 firefighters on call during the day
Desired number of firefighters: 13 (thus missing three)
Facts about the Emergency Service in Reftele
The unit in Reftele is a so-called cutting extinguisher unit. The team sets off on all types of emergency calls, but when there is a need for a cutting extinguisher unit, the special unit is available.
A cutting extinguisher is a fairly new technology and method in the emergency service. The method is used from the outside of the fire room, unlike previously used methods.
A cutting extinguisher works with high water pressure in a similar way as fixed extinguishing systems, e.g. high pressure sprinklers. These use small drops, so-called water mist, but the cutting extinguisher works with considerably higher pressure.
Water pressure cutting extinguisher: 200–300 bar with an output speed of 220 m / sec
Water pressure high pressure sprinkler: 70–120 bar with an output speed of 2–20 m / sec
Water pressure fire truck from pump to fire hoses: 10 bar