Skip to content

RDEK seeking more firefighters with recruitment drive

Elk Valley and South Country and Columbia Valley fire services are recruiting
30703864_web1_220127-FFP-NEWCHIEF-chief_1
Michael Hockley is the fire chief for the rural Elk Valley and South Country fire services. (Image courtesy of RDEK)

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is seeking to boost the amount of firefighters in the region with a firefighter recruitment drive.

According to an RDEK release, the drive is underway for the Elk Valley and South Country Rural Fire and Rescue Services, as well as the Columbia Valley services.

“The RDEK is appealing to residents to consider stepping forward to become part of the team,” the release says.

The RDEK has fire departments in Jaffray, Baynes Lake, Elko, Hosmer, Fairmont, Windermere, Edgewater, and Panorama.

Michael Hockley, Elk Valley and South Country fire chief, said fire departments play a critical role in communities.

“We wouldn’t be able to provide the services we do without the dedicated firefighters we have on our team,” he said.

“Our annual recruitment drive is on now and we are looking for new members to join our team to help ensure our fire services remain strong.”

Application forms are available on the RDEK’s website and at the fire halls.

Drew Sinclair, Columbia Valley Rural Fire Rescue Service chief, said no experience is needed to join.

“We provide the training, and we support new recruits through the learning process,” he said.

“The only requirement is an interest in helping your community and a commitment to training.

“There are many benefits to joining a department, including incredible personal and leadership development, lifesaving first aid skills, and the reward of knowing you are helping your community.

“In addition, our firefighters receive on-call pay and are eligible for extended benefits,” Sinclair said.

Those who are looking for more information can contact the Elk Valley and South Country Rural Fire and Rescue Service at 250-429-3133, or the Columbia Valley Rural Fire Rescue Service at 250-342-6214.

The recruitment drive ends on Oct. 28. For more information visit www.rdek.bc.ca.

READ MORE: Elk Valley and South Country Rural Fire Service seeks new recruits

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


@fishynewswatch
josh.fischlin@thefreepress.ca

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.