Fire service offers child ‘golden ticket’ prize as it launches firefighter for a day competition

A lucky youngster in County Durham or Darlington has the chance to win a ‘golden ticket’ to become a firefighter for the day in a rare fire service competition.

County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) is offering the unique opportunity for a youngster aged five to 17 and their friend to spend time with a crew and experience what the job is really like.

Those who fill out the fire service’s new Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) consultation will have the chance to be entered into the draw to win the experience for their child.

There is also the chance to win a £100 Amazon voucher if they are over the age of 18.

Chief Fire Officer Steve Helps said: “We are offering a child in County Durham or Darlington the fire service equivalent of ‘Willy Wonka’s golden ticket’ - the chance for them to become a firefighter for a day.

“As part of the experience, the lucky winners will be able to meet our crews, explore the fire station, have a go with the hose, try on fire kit and sit on the engine.

“To be in with the chance of winning, we’re asking residents to complete our CRMP consultation survey which sets out how the service will use its resources to protect the public over the next four years, from 2026 to 2030.

“The document covers everything from how the Service prevents fires to how it responds to emergencies and we want the public to have their say on it.”

The consultation survey and competition are open from Wednesday, February 18 until midnight on Wednesday, May 13.

It can be found on the CDDFRS website and paper copies will also be available at a series of public engagement events planned over the next 12 weeks which include car washes and open days.

Details of the events will be shared on the Service’s social media pages.

To enter either or both competitions, participants must complete the CRMP consultation survey, either online or using a paper copy, and select which competition(s) they wish to enter.

To complete the consultation online, visit: Community Risk Management Plan Consultation 2026-30