A community champion has spoken about how one hour volunteering with the fire service could save lives.

Ryan Berridge, who has been a volunteer for Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service for two years, said he got involved after researching ways to give something back to the community, and make people and their homes safer.

The fire service is sharing Ryan’s story as part of National Volunteer Week which runs until June 12.

“I have always had a love for the fire service and to be a part of such a welcoming organisation makes doing what I do, all the more worth it,” Ryan said.

“No matter how many or hours you can give each month, just one could give lifesaving advice to someone and protect them, their family and home from the dangers of fire.

“I would recommend volunteering to anyone but especially with Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service.”

The fire service community champions are often found all over the county, from the smallest of villages to our major cities.

As well as giving general fire safety talks to small community groups such as the local Women’s Institute, they also teach children about fire safety in the home at local fire stations for our safety events called Safety Zone.

They also give advice on how to look after smoke detectors, escape plans, calling 999 and the dangers of hoax calls.

Ryan, of March, said: “Whether it’s during electric blanket exchanges at golden age fairs or to students at freshers week, we get to speak to people of all ages and to those from a varied background.

“We also educate people on water safety and road safety working alongside other organisations and emergency services.”