The Lloydminster Fire Department is on the move on two fronts.
With soil having been turned for the new fire hall and a move-in targeted for 2022, they’re wanting to onboard seven Class No. 4 paid-on-call firefighters.
Assistant Fire Chief Bill Heesing says they have 12 full-time staffers and when they fill the roster they will have a team of 52. He says given the challenges of COVID-19 they want to increase their staff complement and they are willing to pay for recruits to be trained.
“So we will provide that training to you and we will pay you to attend the training that we’re providing to you. You get a worldwide recognized certificate through the National Fire Protection Service for NFPA10 Level 1, Level 2 which is a professional firefighter’s certification worldwide.”
The recruitment drive comes as the Midwest region is experiencing very dry conditions. Heesing wants people to be aware and exercise due attention especially as there have been a number of grass fires that fire crews have had to attend to.
“It’s very dry out there. The residents of the community need to be aware of that and take precautions. If you’re having a backyard fire or out for a walk, please don’t flick that butt into the dry grass or the dry leaves and [make] sure you’re disposing of those correctly.”
Heesing is appreciative of the community support and says for people to continue to call 911 if they see anything.
Prior to 2019, the Lloydminster Fire Department was a volunteer operation. Since then it has progressed into a composite model having paid officers. When the new fire hall comes on stream it will be the headquarters even as they retain a two-station structure.
“It’s a good model. The composite model is definitely a great model to work with and [we have] a great team to work with. It makes it a lot of fun and we address challenges as we see them.”
Heesing says the closing date for prospective recruits to apply is May 9. More details are available on the City’s website.