Letter to the Editor
Editor,
It is not really in my nature to write such a letter as this, but as a member of the Revelstoke Volunteer Fire Department for the last three years, I now feel compelled to share some of my opinions and feelings surrounding this great organization. I have recently given my resignation as I have decided to pursue a career of my own in the fire service, and feel that I am now in a position to fully voice my concern without any direct relationship to the RFD.
Having been a member of the volunteer department for the last three years, I have had the pleasure of being part of what I feel is one of the most rewarding and challenging volunteer opportunities in the City of Revelstoke. Being able to serve our community, and help those that are in need is one of the greatest rewards that comes with being part of the RFD, and I really believe it is time that more people took a chance to either join this great group, or at least open their eyes to how it functions, the work the career staff and volunteers do, and how important this organization is to our community. So many people I speak with around Revelstoke do not even know how much time and effort these individuals put in to making sure all of the citizens of Revelstoke are protected when and if the time comes.
Becoming a member of the Revelstoke Volunteer Fire Department was one of the best choices I have made since moving back to my home town of Revelstoke. Having been born here and growing up here I had always wanted to be a part of this great group and serve the community that I so much love. The training I received, the friends I have made, and the Leadership that has been provided to me both from the Fire Chief and the Career Fire Fighters has been instrumental in achieving my personal goals of becoming a Career Fire Fighter.
It is a chance to make great friends that you know will be there for you both in an emergency and not, and it is a great chance to learn the job that the Career Staff do and how effectively our town, and you the citizens are protected, when you probably have never even thought about it.
Turnover is at an all time high and adding new members to the roster has become a constant struggle for the members of this great organization. Chief Rob Girard has started a recruitment for new volunteer members and I want to urge those who have ever considered it to at least check it out. 1.5 hours a week of training; is that really much time to give to be a part of protecting the community we all love?
There are many new people moving to Revelstoke to take advantage of all the amazing things that this town provides, and I can understand why, this place is amazing, but I believe that being part of such a great community and taking advantage of all it has to offer should come at a price – it is time to give back! The Revelstoke Fire Department needs you!
Jeff Pont,
Kamloops Fire Department
