Open communication is vital for the Kersley Volunteer Fire Department, which is committed to keeping the community safe, said fire chief Eric Smith.
“We have very open lines of communication with the public,” who message the fire department via text messages, Facebook and phone calls with things happening in the community.
Some messages include reports of people burning things. The fire department can head out to chat with property owners, educating them on size regulations and helping them understand what they can and can’t burn.
At the moment, open burning is at a Category 1 Campfire level. Campfires can not exceed 0.5 metres high by 0.5 metres wide. Anything wider is considered a Category 2 fire, which is currently prohibited.
Smith reminds people to be prepared while they’re burning. The area around a campfire should be clear of fuel, and shovels and water should be ready in case the fire spreads. That way, you can help extinguish or suppress the fire until the fire department arrives at the scene to handle it.
Each month, a member from the fire department will also attend the Kersley Community Association meetings, allowing the community to have a better idea of what’s happening within the fire hall.
The fire department also participates in school assemblies, including this week at Kersley Elementary School, where firefighters will discuss fire safety with kids. They will also provide around 60 smoke alarms for the teachers to give to their students to take home, ensuring every household has a working smoke detector.
The Kersley Volunteer Fire Department always accepts new recruits, even junior firefighters ages 16-18. Those interested can visit the Kersley Volunteer Fire Department on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. or visit cariboord.ca to find a department in your area.
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