Clearwater, Blackpool, Vavenby and Blue River fire departments all are looking for more volunteer firefighters.
Firefighting is hard, strenuous work and although being in good physical condition is preferable, there are jobs that are not so physically demanding, representatives say.
Other requirements (for the Clearwater Fire Department, as an example) include being 19 years of age or older, have a valid Class 5 driver’s license, be available for training sessions (Thursdays, 7 – 9 p.m.), and be willing to undergo a criminal record check.
Clearwater Fire Department provides fire protection within the boundaries of District of Clearwater. The department can also go outside the boundaries to provide mutual aid to the Blackpool and Vavenby fire departments.
Equipment at Clearwater Fire Department includes five fire trucks – two pumpers, two tankers (water tenders) and one speciality wildfire truck.
Equipment includes a variety of diameter of hoses, 12 units of self-contained breathing apparatus, portable, land and floating pumps, several types of ladders, and various other firefighting equipment.
All new recruits receive a basic orientation that includes firehall, equipment and apparatus familiarization, and well as personnel introductions during the first two practices.
At their third practice they will be given their turnout gear.
They then will have to complete the basic firefighter course. After that a vote by the membership will take place and any recruit receiving a 2/3 favorable vote will be offered a full membership.
As members they will be issued a pager and allowed to attend callouts. They still will be considered recruits, however, and will not be asked to do anything they are not trained to do.
Clearwater’s firefighters are covered by Worksafe BC as well as disability and accidental death insurance. Small stipends are paid for attending practices and callouts.
