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100 Mile Fire Rescue recruiting new members

100 Mile Fire Rescue is recruiting new volunteer firefighters this month

100 Mile Fire Rescue is on the hunt for new volunteers to join their ranks. 

Every October the fire department holds a recruitment drive where they welcome those interested in becoming a firefighter to sign up for the hall. 100 Mile Fire Rescue chief Dave Bissat said he already has three new recruits starting this month, but he is aiming to bring in an additional five to the hall. 

"If anyone is interested they can come see us in person, they can check out the hall or they can apply online at 100milefire.com," Bissat remarked. "We're looking to bring in three to five people, if possible. We do have three starting this (month) and that's just from applications we've accepted throughout the year." 

Right now Bissat said his team numbers around 24 paid-on-call volunteer firefighters, with only himself and deputy chief Cole Sparreboom being full-time professionals. This means whenever a call comes in there's always a chance none of the volunteers will be able to attend, which makes recruitment and retention so important. 

To become a member of the fire hall Bissat said applicants must live within 100 Mile House's fire protection area, be able to pass a basic physical test and be willing to put in the time at the hall. In addition to calls, Bissat said that firefighters practise at least once a week on Wednesdays and frequently have additional weekend training. 

"We use up everyone's spare time. The priorities that we follow for firefighters is your family comes first, then you have your normal job and paid on-call firefighting comes in four or fifth on your list in your spare time," Bissat said. "If you have spare time and you want to give it back to the community we do community events and training is a big one. Anyone can walk through the door and we'll train them." 

Bissat noted that everyone can do a different role in the fire service and he and his officers do their best to select the right people for the right jobs. 

"I find everyone has different strengths and you put them where they belong and in the end we all get the job done," Bissat remarked. 

100 Mile House's fire protection area includes the town of 100 Mile House, up to 103 Mile House and Highway 24 on Highway 97 and out to the Imperial Ranchettes near Horse Lake. Bissat said if someone lives outside this area but works in 100 Mile House throughout the week, they could also be eligible to join the hall. 

"Give it a try. You meet new people, you learn new skills and I find it fun. I was sceptical many years ago in joining and I joined and ended up liking it," Bissat remarked. 

Anyone looking for additional information can contact Bissat at 250-395-2152 or DBissat@100milehouse.com.



Patrick Davies

About the Author: Patrick Davies

An avid lover of theatre, media, and the arts in all its forms, I've enjoyed building my professional reputation in 100 Mile House.
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