The firefighters in our municipality are skilled, strong and valiant. They are also all volunteers.
In every one of our municipality’s 24 fire departments, men and women volunteer their time to keep our communities safe. However, fire service volunteerism is in decline. Recruiting and retaining active volunteers has been a long-running issue across Nova Scotia and rural communities nationwide and, unfortunately, our municipality is no exception. Some of the problem stems from demographic trends affecting our region, including slow or no population growth in communities and an overall aging population. Another factor may be people simply do not know about the volunteer-run status of our local fire departments.
Through the creation and implementation of our Fire Services Recruitment and Retention Strategy, our staff has partnered with local fire service members to help bolster awareness about our region’s need for volunteer firefighters. Our goal is to send a call to action to all residents: volunteering with the fire service can be for you!
Of course, not everyone wants to answer calls, wear the gear or respond to emergency situations in the classic red truck. No matter your age, skill set, or availability, there is a role for you in your local fire department. Whether you’re exceptionally organized, handy with technology or even a talented cook, you can be a vital part of a fire department’s team. Besides the typical role of a volunteer firefighter, there is a constant, lesser known need in the fire service for administrative help, truck drivers and for community fundraisers. Countless opportunities exist outside the typical firefighter role. Without the collaboration of a multitude of people in different roles that are best suited to them, our fire departments would not be able to function safely or effectively.
Beyond helping your community stay safe and secure, joining your local fire department’s team can be a great step in personal development. You can learn about the history of firefighting in your region and develop physical and mental skills that can be used in many different areas of your life. From providing youth with invaluable lessons about leadership, safety and community involvement through becoming a junior member, to giving people of all ages and walks of life a feeling of purpose and the opportunity to give back to their community, volunteering with the fire service can be a mutually beneficial experience for all those involved.
It is our priority to foster a healthy and informed relationship between the public and our fire service and to encourage those eligible to volunteer whenever and however possible. Together, we will create a stronger and safer community for all. To find out more about volunteer opportunities in your local fire department, go to www.answerthecall.ca.
Carolyn Bolivar-Getson is the mayor of the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg. She writes a monthly column, which appears in the South Shore Breaker, and can be reached at [email protected].
