Short-statured individuals may now get the chance to be hired by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) provided they possess unique qualifications or skill sets following the lifting in the processing of height and age waivers.

However, the BFP said  the application for height waivers shall only be considered with a minimum height of 1.52 meters (4 feet 11 inches) for male and 1.47 meters (4 feet 9 inches) for female applicants.

“All height waiver applications are subject to final review and approval by the BFP Height Waiver Committee. Meeting the minimum height does not guarantee acceptance,’’ the BFP clarified.

Further, the BFP stressed that these applications may be considered if the concerned parties carry outstanding scholastic accomplishments “such as honor graduates, consistent academic scholars, or board/bar topnotchers.’’

The applicants must also have “special skills’’ in fire suppression, fire prevention, or in operating heavy equipment like aerial ladder, rescue tender and emergency medical services and should have a professional driver's license with restriction codes two and three.

Likewise, applicants with Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) mechanic trade test certificate with expertise in pump operation, auto diesel engine and auto electrical troubleshooting and others equipped with “other skills that will assist with the tradition and need of uniformed service’’ may also be considered for acceptance in the BFP.

“Prepare your documents and contact the nearest Regional PRAISE Committee or BFP Office in your locality for wide acceptance of your applications,’’ the BFP told the interested parties.

BFP Chief Directorial staff Chief Supt. Andrew Mendova directed the regional directors to accept applications for height and age waivers in accordance with the bureau’s provisions and ensure wide dissemination in their area of responsibility.

Likewise, the BFP said that the 40-hour “Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) training, which began on July 20, will equip the firefighters with the capability to spot hazards that enhance their emergency rescue operation expertise especially during distressful and precarious circumstances.

Mendova issued the declaration, citing that the upgraded skills also ensure the firefighters safety.

“We need our personnel to be safe so they can save and protect the public,” Mendova, speaking on behalf of BFP officer-in-charge (OIC) Wilberto Rico Neil Kwan Tiu.

In the course of the five-day training sessions, the BFP personnel will learn basic knowledge and skills in identifying safety, health, and environmental hazards; determine appropriate control measures; respond to workplace emergencies; and participate in conduct of emergency drills.

“Personnel from Special Rescue Force National Headquarters and National Capital Region were selected as participants,’’ Mendova lamented.