Staff story
A Life on Call: Celebrating 20 Years of Service at Slaithwaite Fire Station
Slaithwaite Fire Station - 16th May 2025
Today, 16th May 2025, marks 20 years of service for on-call Crew Manager Stewart Warman - a huge milestone in a career built on commitment, consistency, and community spirit.
Stewart joined West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service in 2005 when Slaithwaite Fire Station transitioned from wholetime to on-call. Stewart became part of the newly formed on-call crew at Slaithwaite - starting a commitment that’s lasted 20 years. For two decades, he’s balanced life as a self-employed farrier with the unpredictable nature of the pager - always answering the call!
“Stewart’s a brilliant example of what the on-call system is all about,” said Assistant District Commander Matt Wolski.
“He’s dependable, quietly influential, and always there when it counts. He’s supported so many incidents with a calm head and steady hands. His presence on the moors during wildfire season has been a constant over the years - and within the team, he’s someone everyone looks up to. People like Stewart are the heartbeat of on-call stations!”
Whether tackling wildfires on the moors or supporting major incidents like the Grosvenor Chemical fire in Linthwaite, Stewart’s presence has brought calm in chaos. Back at station, he’s mentored countless firefighters - helping shape the next generation with patience, encouragement, and leadership.
Quickfire Q&A with Stewart
Personal Journey
Q. What inspired you to join?
When the station changed to on-call, I wanted to help keep it open for the benefit of the community.
Q. What was it like stepping into the role?
Daunting but exciting! I’ve always been self-employed, so it was a totally different experience joining #TeamWYFRS.
Q. What’s kept you motivated?
Knowing I’m protecting the place I live - and the support I’ve had from my wife and family.
Community Impact
Q. What does serving your own community mean to you?
I’ve got to know so many more people in the village since joining. That connection really matters.
Q. Any memorable incidents?
Countless - but the moorland fires really stand out.
Then and Now
Q. How has the role changed since 2005?
The equipment has come on massively - it’s made a real difference to how we work.
Team and Culture
Q. What’s the crew culture like?
It’s like an extended family. Although I do feel like the Grandad!
Q. Have you mentored others?
Yes, it’s really rewarding to see new firefighters grow into confident, capable crew members.
Q. What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
Patience!
Reflection and Future
Q. What are you most proud of?
Too many moments to count, but the Grosvenor Chemical fire stands out as one I’ll never forget.
Q. How will you mark the milestone?
Probably just a few drinks locally with friends and colleagues.
Q. And you’re not done just yet?
Nope, I’ll be staying on the run until October 2025, when I turn 65-year-old!
Q. What would you say to someone thinking of joining WYFRS as an on-call firefighter?
Definitely go for it. Just make sure your family are behind you - their support is everything.
Could you - or someone you know - answer the call as an On-Call Firefighter?
On-call firefighters are ordinary people doing an extraordinary role – serving around their day jobs, families, and local lives. You don’t need firefighting experience. You just need the willingness to learn and the dedication to respond when your community needs you most.
Sound like something you could do?
Find out more and apply: On-call Firefighter | West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service
