Volunteer firefighters integral part of rural communities
Many of our Cape Breton communities are well known for their spirit of volunteerism among the residents. Volunteers sell bingo cards, serve at the local breakfast programs in our schools, make flannel pillowcases for palliative care patients, bake cookies for various community events — the list goes on and on.
I have done my fair share of volunteerism in Port Morien but never once has anyone ever expected me to run into a burning building to save trapped occupants. Nor am I ever called to a car accident crash to possibly witness unimaginable horrors that could be etched in my mind forever.
Just who do we expect to do these heroic tasks without it being their full-time job? These men and women are volunteer firefighters not only in our seaside village of Port Morien but in 69 fire stations all across Cape Breton. There are 32 volunteer departments in CBRM, 11 in Victoria County, 10 in Richmond County and 16 in Inverness County. That adds up to a lot of volunteers who are risking their lives to make our communities better. These men and women are the ultimate volunteers.
LOTS OF TRAINING
What does it take to become a volunteer firefighter? First of all, they are required to take many hours of specialized training in the field. Fighting a structure fire is no easy task. Fire can be a formidable enemy!
They maintain the equipment in top-notch shape so they are ready to spring into action at a moment’s notice as well as looking after the firehall. Add to that, they must have the stamina and strength to do what they do. It takes a lot of sheer guts to be a firefighter.
On a personal note, I am well aware of the fact that many of them are trained as “first responders." That means that they usually arrive before the paramedics when you call 911. On two occasions, these local first responders quickly arrived at our house when there was a medical emergency. It was such a comfort to see familiar faces walk through the door. The firehall is closer than the ambulance base in rural communities.
HELP DURING MAJOR STORMS
During Fiona, Port Morien and surrounding communities were cut off from the rest of the world. Downed power lines were blocking the roads and all communication lines were down. The village was isolated.
What a lesson that was! Afnd terwards, the villagers knew that we needed to mobilize to get ready for the “next time” because we know that the weather patterns are changing. The arrival of six feet of snow in February was a stark reminder of the power of Mother Nature.
Fire Chief James Bates and his crew worked with the provincial government to acquire a massive generator so that there would be a comfort station in the village. Bruce MacDonald, EMO manager, met with the community on various occasions to discuss ways that we can be better prepared for the next catastrophe. Kim Ferguson is the team leader for these community meetings. She moved to Homeville a few years ago. She is a wonderful volunteer and for that, we are more than grateful.
WAYS TO SUPPORT
What can we do to support our local fire departments all across the island? Every fire department has its own fundraising events.
Last month in Port Morien, “coin cards” arrived at our doors. In days gone by, residents would actually insert coins in the card slots. Now, we receive a card with a message requesting a monetary donation.
In May, our fire department hosts the annual takeout lobster dinner with homemade pies. This is an annual tradition and people look forward to this event every spring.
A fairly new fundraiser for volunteer fire departments across the province is the 50/ 50 weekly raffle draw where you designate which fire station you are supporting. The draw is on Thursday with an early bird draw on Tuesday. The money prize is usually big enough to buy a new home or a few really fancy cars. Give your luck a try!
Volunteer fire departments are an integral part of our rural communities. Kudos to these brave men and women.