County Fire Departments were in full swing during Fire Prevention Week 2024, which took place from October 6 to October 12. With a focus on educating the public about fire safety, local fire departments held demonstrations, presentations, and community events aimed at raising awareness about fire prevention.
The week kicked off on October 6, with Mrs. Bergquist’s Grade 6/7 class from St. Mary’s Elementary School visiting the Paradise Valley Fire Department. Students were treated to a tour of the fire station, a demonstration by firefighters, and a fire hall lunch. The event not only engaged the students but also provided them with valuable information about the role of firefighters and the importance of fire safety.
On October 8, County Firefighters headed to Marwayne, where they hosted school tours and demonstrations, educating local residents about fire safety. Marwayne Fire Chief Ron Miske and his dedicated crew worked hard to spread the message of the week: “Smoke alarms save lives.” The Marwayne School community expressed their gratitude, with a heartfelt thank-you to Protective Services Operations Officer Austin Armitage and the Marwayne Fire Department for their K-6 presentation and fire truck tours.
In Innisfree, the County of Minburn Fire Department provided hands-on lessons at the local ECS. Children in kindergarten and preschool classes were able to explore firefighting gear and equipment while learning important fire safety tips. This hands-on approach proved to be a hit with the young learners, sparking curiosity and understanding about fire safety from an early age.
On October 10, the Islay Fire Department took to the streets, promoting FireSmart Alberta programs throughout the Hamlet of Islay. The walk-through aimed to encourage residents to take proactive steps in protecting their homes from fire hazards.
One of the major highlights of the week took place on October 10, when the Paradise Valley Fire Department hosted its 20th Annual 5 Alarm Chili Cook-Off at the E.H. Walter School gymnasium. Thirteen competitors battled it out for the coveted title of 2024 Chili Cook-Off Champion, with all proceeds from the event going toward supporting the Paradise Valley Fire Department. The winner not only earned a trophy to display proudly but also had their name engraved on the prestigious trophy of legends.
County Fire Chief Kirk Hughes reiterated the importance of some simple precautions folks can do at home, “When the clocks move forward and backward, that is a good reminder to take a moment and test your smoke alarms to make sure they are fully functioning. Also, take a moment and check your fire extinguishers, make sure they are in the ‘green’ on the dial and ready to work for you when you need them.”
Meanwhile, the Vermilion Fire Department conducted fire prevention inspections and drills at senior housing and manors in the area. Vermilion Fire Chief Anton Krys reinforces the message that fire prevention is a year-round responsibility. “Even though Fire Prevention Week is this week, we work throughout the year to educate the public on the importance of fire safety,” said Vermilion Fire Chief Anton Krys. “It should always be a priority—it can happen any season, at any time.”
Wrapping up the week of events, the Dewberry Fire Department held an open house on October 10, offering free hot dogs, donuts, coffee, and juice. “We also had Dewberry School Kindergarten to grade 9, and Lakeland Country School grade 1 to 9 attend our fire hall for fire safety education. We had a fire safety presentation with each group, and did a vehicle extrication demonstration which included us removing doors and a windshield from a car. The students also participated in a mini-obstacle course and used the reel hose on Pump 8-2 to take down pilon targets,” said Lt. Tyler Haney from the Dewberry Fire Department.
While Fire Prevention Week has come to a close, fire safety remains a top priority for the county’s fire departments. Residents are reminded to mark their calendars for the Kitscoty Fire Rescue’s Steak Fry at the Kitscoty Community Hall on October 18, featuring cocktails, supper, and live entertainment from the Jones Boys. Tickets can be purchased from any firefighter or contact FM Entertainment at 306-307-9227.
For more information on joining local fire departments, residents can reach out to the fire teams in their areas. Fire safety is a community effort, and everyone is encouraged to get involved in making our homes and neighbourhoods safer year-round.
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