We need Paid On-Call Fire Fighters at all of our stations.
That’s the message from Kootenay-Boundary Regional Chief Dan Derby who says the near closure of the Genelle Fire Hall because of an acute staff shortage has brought the issue to the forefront.
“Those challenges aren’t unique to Genelle,” said Derby.
“We’ve got low numbers in our Fruitvale, in our Montrose and our Warfield stations, not obviously as dire a situation, but we need members across all of our stations,” the chief added.
The RDKB agreed to keep the Genelle hall open provided it has 15 fire fighters by Sept 1 and doesn’t fall below 10 or attendance doesn’t meet operating guidelines over a six-month period. It was slated for closure at the end of next month.
Derby stresses that they are looking for any adult who is fit and willing to devote their time, with all training provided.
“Their fire fighter training, their 10-0-1 level two it’s called, we provide them with first responder medical training, we provide them with wild land fire fighter training and a whole host of other, smaller courses,” explained Derby, who said previous recruits have come from all walks of life, which has paid dividends.
“When we are in response, that cross section of experience, often those individuals with specific skill sets will be of significant value to a certain event,” explained Derby.
“The team isn’t made up of all one type of person, the team is made up of a really diverse group of people that represents the community.” he said, and advised anyone interested but intimidated about firefighting should speak with current staff.
A recruitment meeting for Genelle candidates is set for 7 p.m. on Tues June 3 at the fire station.
The rate of pay for probationary fire fighters is $20.78/ hour and goes up to $25.98/hour once certified.
Derby calls it a great opportunity to start what could be a rewarding career.
“It’s something that’s been part of my life since I was a young man and I really think it’s just a great opportunity for women and men to give back to the communities that we live in.”
The deadline for applications is June 30 with training slated to begin in September.
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