The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) says its new recruitment program for volunteer firefighters has proven to be a major success.
The inaugural group of 50 recruits has now completed the volunteer firefighter training program which included regionalized recruitment and a Regional Fire Academy.
“Our new volunteer recruits have demonstrated exceptional resilience and teamwork,” said Tristan Fehst, Acting RDCK Regional Fire Chief. “They have successfully met the high standards set forth and we are excited to welcome them to our ranks.”
“The dedication from the new recruits was impressive,” added Dan Zayac, RDCK Regional Training Officer. “I deeply appreciate the time and commitment they put in for preparing to serve our communities.”
This new approach to recruitment and training was implemented at the beginning of 2024.
During the accelerated training process, recruits undergo an intensive training regiment designed to prepare them for the diverse challenges they will face in the line of duty. The program included rigorous physical conditioning, classroom instruction, and hands-on experience with firefighting equipment and techniques. Recruits also received specialized training in emergency medical response, hazardous materials handling, and community outreach.
Each recruit successfully met the stringent training standards set by the service and the BC Structure Fire Minimum Training Standards, ensuring they are fully prepared to serve their communities effectively, says the RDCK.
“The success of the Regional Fire Academy was made possible by the hard work of our Fire Service Trainers which include full-time Regional Training Officer Dan Zayac, Fire Service Trainer’s Veronica Kinch and Philippe Beaudet, as well as our As and When Trainers comprised of volunteer firefighters,” said Fehst.
The RDCK is now gearing up for its next volunteer firefighter recruitment drive to be followed by Class 2 of the Regional Fire Academy this fall. Applications are being accepted now through Aug. 26 with the next training program starting on Sept. 25.
"We are looking for individuals who are committed to excellence and have a strong desire to serve," said Fehst. "This is a challenging yet rewarding role, and we invite anyone interested in joining our volunteer team to apply and take the first step towards making a positive impact in our community."
The RDCK Fire Service is comprised of 16 volunteer fire departments -- Balfour-Harrop, Beasley, Blewett, Crescent Valley, Kaslo, North Shore, Ootischenia, Passmore, Pass Creek, Riondel, Robson, Slocan, Tarrys, Winlaw, Yahk, Ymir.
For more information about the recruitment process and to apply, visit www.rdck.ca/volunteer, email fireadmin@rdck.bc.ca, or contact Leanne at 250-352-1570.
