The latest recruitment numbers for men and women into Lac La Biche County's fire services continues to heat up.
FIRE PREVENTION WEEK FEATURE — "We have had huge success with our semi-annual recruit program with – 37 members thus far in the program," said John Kokotilo, the municipality's Manager of Protective Services and Regional Fire Chief. "If the program continues to have the success it has – we will be able to ensure adequate staffing for our Department for years to come."
Firefighters who have already experienced some of those years of service were recognized at a special awards night last week in the Bold Center's Community Hall — the former Devon Room.
Firefighter Mark Wiebe was awarded with his 25 year service pin and Shane Bair received his 20 year pin, along with a national medal for Exemplary Service. Veteran firefighter Dave Moseley was awarded the 2020 Firefighter Peer Recognition Award.
15 Year Fire Services Pin — Kristen Forsberg
12 Year Alberta Emergency Services Medal — Peter Lewis
12 Year Alberta Emergency Services Medal — Philip Arnett
10 Year Fire Services Pin — Draper Dempsey
10 Year Fire Services Pin — Jarrett Austin
10 Year Fire Services Pin — Brad Semeniuk
5 Year Fire Services Pin — Jeff Bleach
The mix of veteran firefighters, active members and a "bumper crop" of new recruits provides a large skill-set of experience, says Kokotilo.
"We have some long term members with a vast amount of experience and are incredible mentors to our up and comers," he said, explaining that recruitment drives take place twice a year — but anyone wishing to join can apply at any time. "We are always accepting applications from those that are dedicated in being a part of a team that want to give back to our Citizens no matter the age."
There are three groups that make up the fire services roster, cadets, firefighters and a support group. There are currently eight Cadets under the age of 18.
Training for cadets involves an introductory three month course taking up 60 hours over nights and some weekends. After passing the course and being accepted into one of the municipality's six fire stations, weekly training sessions and specialty courses follow. Kokotilo says residents are protected very well within the municipality by a well-staffed and well-equipped fire service.
"At this time we have well trained personnel, very good equipment, and sufficient numbers to respond," he said, adding that over-lapping service also helps to maintain adequate response whenever calls come in. "We have provisions and procedures for multiple call-outs — more than one Station) — whenever required – this ensures back-up for emergency response at any time, in any District."