Never a firefighter, but we have had loads come in and passed out as drivers, also quite a few ex police. The other week, we had 5 ex police and 2 firefighters in the mess room, which was quite amusing with the banter. All have said, its the best thing they have done. They also have mentioned you receive a much better pension on the railway, and you get all the benefits of reduced travel and free travel for your family.
With out getting into all the nitty gritty.... your job sounds horrific sometimes. On the railway you will have a better life balance, a better future and also a better salary. (apologies if i sound I'm putting the fire service down)
A firefighters job is so under valued. I hear that you guys also do first response for the ambulance services.
If your choosing between your job and the railway, I would choose the railway all the way. You have your odd days, but I have been on the footplate for around 34 years, and it's done me no harm, well hopefully not !!!
Best of luck with your drivers assessment.
