Do you have what it takes to be a firefighter?
Wetaskiwin Fire Services has issued its annual call for paid on-call firefighters to join their team of approximately 36 members; including a Fire Chief, Deputy Fire Chief, paid-on-call Captains, Lieutenants, Firefighters, as well as Administrative Support.
“We’re one big family here, we help each other and we work together to support the community,” says Deputy Fire Chief Alex Plant.
Firefighters get a lot back from the time they put in, from the reward of giving back to an organization with a 100+-year history, to the invaluable skills gained from first aid, emergency rescue, and leadership.
“Our firefighters learn so many skills that they can take with them throughout their lives, whether they want to grow their career as a firefighter or paramedic, or add to their skill set in virtually any career where teamwork and leadership are valued,” Plant says.
What does the job entail?
Emergency response: These responses include a variety of emergencies such as structure fires, motor vehicle incidents, vehicle fires, hazardous material spills, brush fires, investigations, alarm responses, medical/RCMP assists, ice rescues and more. Wetaskiwin Firefighters responded to close to 700 calls last year within the city limits, and in the County of Wetaskiwin’s Zone Two.
When firefighters are paged, they will rally to their assigned fire station, gear up and get into the trucks, responding to the incident they’ve just been requested to assist with.
Fire prevention: The fire department also participates in fire prevention activities, including school presentations, school tours at the fire station, annual inspections, company inspections, and safety code inspections.
Training: There are many training opportunities within Wetaskiwin Fire Services. Training is conducted through online courses, practical skills sessions, or during training sessions held every Thursday night. These all contribute to maintaining and enhancing firefighter skills and safety.
To join the Fire Services family, simply fill out the application form and email it — along with your resumé — to hr@wetaskiwin.ca by July 5.
“As long as you’re over age 18 and have a strong desire to succeed, we’d love to hear from you!” Plant says.
