Kawartha Lakes’ deputy fire chief hopes community members will respond to the call of duty and consider joining the fire department in 2024.
Kawartha Lakes is actively recruiting people to join the Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue Service (KLFRS).
“Volunteer firefighters are needed for a majority of our fire stations, especially in the rural areas of Kawartha Lakes, to ensure that we have proper staffing when an emergency occurs,” Mike Matthews, KLFRS deputy chief, told kawarthaNOW.
KLFRS is soliciting for firefighters for the spring 2024 recruitment class. By joining the department, residents help protect the community from fires and other hazards, the fire rescue service noted.
Appropriate candidates for the task need to be dedicated, have excellent teamwork skills, be in good health, and be physically fit, KLRS noted.
“You’ll join a team of like-minded individuals, learn transferable life skills, and help promote a safe community by upholding the three lines of defence against fire.”
Firefighters acquire knowledge and participate in a wide range of specialized training. They help promote safety by “upholding the three lines of defence against fire — public fire safety education, fire safety standards, and enforcement and emergency response.”
To be eligible to join the fire rescue service, residents must have a Grade 12 diploma or an equivalent.
Candidates must have, and maintain, the physical strength and agility necessary to perform arduous work, KLFRS noted. They must also be able to competently operate firefighting and rescue equipment and safety equipment in all types of adverse conditions, for prolonged periods, and be able to lift up to 30 kilograms or more. A positive attitude and the ability to maintain a high degree of confidentiality are also required.
The recruitment process consists of a formal application, aptitude and physical testing, an interview, and submitting required documentation. The fire service’s administration team will review the applicants.
“Offers will be made to successful applicants and a minimum of one recruitment class of up to 30 individuals will be selected.”
New volunteer recruits will complete 40 hours of online training exercises and 60 hours of in-person training sessions.
Matthews said becoming part of the fire service is a great way to contribute to life in Kawartha Lakes.
“By joining the fire service, you will have the opportunity to give back to the community that you live in and provide help to someone that may be experiencing an emergency and needs help right away,” Matthews noted.
Applications are due by Tuesday, January 2nd.
Volunteer firefighters are being recruited for the following stations: Station 4 (Ops), Station 5 (Dunsford), Station 7 (Bethany), Station 8 (Pontypool), Station 9 (Janetville), Station 14 (Woodville), Station 15 (Kirkfield), Station 16 (Carden), Station 17 (Norland), Station 18 (Kinmount), Station 19 (Coboconk), Station 20 (Burnt River), and Station 21 (Mariposa).
For the complete list of necessary skills and job requirements and to complete an application, visit www.kawarthalakes.ca/VFF.
