The Saskatchewan Volunteer Fire Fighters鈥� Association holds two fire schools a year to help train new volunteers and paid on-call firefighters to be prepared for handling all aspects of the job, but due to COVID-19, the spring classes were cancelled.聽
Fortunately, the fall classes are a go and the Redvers Volunteer Fire Department has decided to host the fall training from Oct. 16-18.
鈥淭he biggest reason we decided to host was, I really see a need for more training and continuous involvement in the departments to keep not only firemen but also anyone in an emergency situation safe,鈥� said Fire Chief Brad Hutton of the Redvers department.
The training involved in the three-day schooling teaches everything from Level 1 all the way through to specialty courses such as vehicle fires to heavy rescue. The fire school used to get quite a turnout with approximately 250 members but due to COVID-19 regulations this fall鈥檚 course had only about 160 people who signed up as the restrictions eliminated the banquet social and affected classroom sizes.
Redvers has utilized various halls and the rink to be able to go through with the classes. Meals, classes and other factors have been adjusted to meet COVID regulation.
The entire Redvers department has been busy getting vehicles and training equipment ready. They have also found old buildings and houses to utilize for the specialty part of the courses.
There will be online raffles during the weekend of Oct. 16-18 and possible auctions as well. Keep your eyes on the Redvers Fire Department Facebook page and the SVFFA page for more details.
