Columbia Valley Pioneer staff
An active recruitment drive for firefighters is underway in the East Kootenays.
The regional district is calling for a few good men and women to join its dedicated teams in the Columbia Valley, Elk Valley and South Country Rural Fire and Rescue Service.
“The only requirement is an interest in helping your community and a commitment to training,” says Columbia Valley Rural Fire Rescue Service Deputy Chief Jon Tames. “We see regular evidence of the critical role our fire departments play in our communities, and without the dedicated firefighters we have on our team we simply would not be able to provide that service.”
Tames notes that all training is provided, and new recruits are keenly supported through the learning process.
The regional district has fire departments in Jaffray, Baynes Lake, Elko, and Hosmer, Fairmont, Windermere, Edgewater, and Panorama. Application forms are available on the RDEK’s website and at each fire hall.
Elk Valley & South Country Fire Chief Michael Hockley says they need new members to help ensure their fire services remain strong.
“There are many benefits to joining a department, including invaluable personal and leadership development, lifesaving first aid skills, and the pride that comes with serving your community. In addition, our firefighters receive on-call pay and are eligible for extended benefits,” Hockley points out.
Interested candidates can contact the Elk Valley and South Country Rural Fire and Rescue Service at 250-429-3133, or the Columbia Valley Rural Fire Rescue Service at 250-342-6214. Training starts in November.
For more information, visit www.rdek.bc.ca.
