ItB次元官网网址檚 that time of year again, time for Langford Fire RescueB次元官网网址檚 annual recruitment drive for volunteer firefighters. But this year theyB次元官网网址檙e doing something a little different.
Fire Chief Bob Beckett said the goal is to make the process as inclusive as possible in an attempt to make sure the department is finding the best possible candidates throughout the community.
B次元官网网址淲eB次元官网网址檙e trying to take the veil down,B次元官网网址� he said. B次元官网网址淲e want to reach out to the communityB次元官网网址� ItB次元官网网址檚 open to everyone.B次元官网网址�
In an effort to show the city what the department is really like, theyB次元官网网址檙e hosting an open house for potential applicants on Saturday, Dec. 12, from 9 a.m. until noon at the Number 1 Hall, 2625 Peatt Rd.
This drop-in event will allow anyone interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter the ability to learn more about the organization, ask any questions and try components of the fitness test, all before going through the recruitment process.
Beckett said the process can be quite intimidating and they wanted to make sure no one was discouraged from applying.
B次元官网网址淲eB次元官网网址檙e going to try to take the mystique away,B次元官网网址� he said, adding the department has B次元官网网址渘ever not been inclusive.B次元官网网址�
He worries that because firefighters are often stereotyped, some potential applicants donB次元官网网址檛 bother applying.
B次元官网网址淵ou donB次元官网网址檛 have to bench press 300 pounds,B次元官网网址� he said, noting that if the physical aspects are a concern, members of the public can come try portions of the fitness test at the open house, without having to worry about being judged.
B次元官网网址淲e believe that diversity will enrich our department,B次元官网网址� he said.
A number of volunteers will be on hand at the open house, including two of the departmentB次元官网网址檚 female firefighters, to answer questions, show guests around and help with a number of hands-on activities.
This year, between the three halls, there are eight firefighter openings.
Usually, the department averages between five to eight openings a year and receives roughly 40 to 50 applications.
Being a volunteer firefighter requires a significant time commitment, especially for the first year, and it takes up to two years before firefighters are fully trained. B次元官网网址淚tB次元官网网址檚 not the right fit for everyone,B次元官网网址� Beckett said. Although, he did add it was an incredibly rewarding experience with lots of fun events at the department.
Applications will be available at the halls or online as of Dec. 15 and are due at (or before) a mandatory information session for all applicants on Jan. 13.
katie@goldstreamgazette.com
Did you know?
The minimum qualifications for becoming a firefighter in Langford are:
