Elk Valley and South Country Rural Fire Service seeks new recruits

The Elk Valley and South Country Rural Fire and Rescue Service is kicking off a firefighter recruitment drive.

“Our fire departments play a critical role in our rural communities,” said Elk Valley and South Country fire chief, Michael Hockley.

“To keep these departments running and able to answer calls, we need to have a dedicated core of firefighters.

“We are the ones who come to help in times of emergency. We are now on the other side, asking the community for it’s help to keep our departments operating.”

The Elk Valley and South Country Rural Fire Service encompasses departments in Jaffray, Baynes Lake, Elko and Hosmer, and according to Hockley they were seeking new firefighters for each department, but particularly Jaffray.

“We often hear people say they are hesitant to join the department because they have no experience,” said Hockley. “We provide the training and we support new recruits through the learning process. The only requirement is an interest in helping their community and a commitment to training.”

If you’re thinking of signing up, or want to know more, you can find application forms on the RDEK website and at the Fire Halls themselves, and you are free to contact chief Hockley at 250-429-3133.

“There are many benefits to becoming a part of a department,” he said.

“Aside from the incredible training and leadership development, lifesaving first aid skills, and the reward of knowing you are helping your community, our firefighters all receive on-call pay and are eligible for extended benefits.”

READ MORE: RDEK confirms new fire chief for rural Elk Valley and South Country