The RDEK Seeks Firefighter Recruits with a recruitment drive that is underway for the Columbia Valley and Elk Valley & South Country Rural Fire and Rescue Services. The RDEK is appealing to residents to consider stepping forward to become part of the team.

“Now is the time to step up and join our team. We provide the training, and we support new recruits through the learning process. The only requirement is an interest in helping your community and a commitment to training,” says Columbia Valley Rural Fire Rescue Service Deputy Chief Jon Tames. “We see regular evidence of the critical role our fire departments play in our communities, and without the dedicated firefighters we have on our team we simply would not be able to provide that service.”

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

Application forms are available on the RDEK’s website and at the Fire Halls.

“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,” says Elk Valley & South Country Fire Chief Michael Hockley. “There are many benefits to joining a department, including invaluable personal and leadership development, lifesaving first aid skills, and the pride that comes with serving your community. In addition, our firefighters receive on-call pay and are eligible for extended benefits.”

Anyone 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 Columbia Valley and Elk Valley & South Country Rural Fire and Rescue Services firefighter recruitment drive urges those interested to apply now, as training starts in November. For more information, visit www.rdek.bc.ca.