Potton First Responders and Firemen serving the community for over 26 years
For over 26 years now (since 1992), the Potton (Mansonville) First Responders and Firefighters have been providing a variety of fire safety techniques as well as displaying great pride, not only in themselves, but in their community through their emergency response efforts. Anyone who has had to call upon the Potton Firefighters and First Responders will likely tell you that, over the past 26 years, some wonderful and dedicated individuals have served Potton’s people.
Through time, the Mansonville Fire Department and First Responders have evolved into a multi-faceted emergency response service in diversified rescue in all seasons. Fire prevention and public education are also two vital aspects of the job in keeping the community safe.
“The fact is that 95% of the calls we receive, do not relate to fire,” explained Ronney Korman, Director of Fire Prevention and Safety for the Municipality of Potton. “We receive calls regarding car accidents, electrical issues, flooding, fallen trees, search and rescue in cases where people are lost or missing and more.”
The Potton Fire Department has 24 Firefighters and there are 16 First Responders, 12 of whom are also Firefighters. Some 300 hours of basic training is required to become a firefighter and additional hours are essential for the added training for, First Responder certification, the Jaws of Life, Pump use or to become an Officer… Recertification is also required when due. There are 1 to 2 practices per month and Korman says that on average, the unit receives around 130 calls per year.
Dedicated to making a commitment to the community, the rewards in becoming a firefighter or first responder are many. Each new service or life saving measure added in responding to emergencies for the Potton community and surrounding areas instills a sense of gratification and accomplishment for the group.
“We are lucky to have a very active and implicated fundraising committee,” said Korman. “The group, through their efforts and the support of the community has made many improvements in equipment over the years possible.”
These equipment improvements include an upgraded Jaws of Life service, the installation of 6 defibrillators in Potton(three purchased by the fundraising committee and three by the Municipality) and are maintained by the Fire Department. Located at Jewett’s Store in Vale Perkins, the Caisse Populaire on Principal Street, Parc Andre Gagnon (Rte 243 North), the Rocket in South Bolton, Carrefours des Campeurs on the way to Dunkin and at the Wharf in Knowlton’s landing, these life saving devices have already been used.
The most recent purchase was a side by side all rescue vehicle which cost in the area of $47,000 and can be used to save lives in all seasons. The side by side was used last year on Owl’s Head Mountain where rescuers were able to go up the mountain and directly to the person suffering from a cardiac issue to offer help.
“In 2017 our unit celebrated its 25th Anniversary,” Korman shared. “We have a dynamic and motivated team that is focused on keeping the community safe.”
If you would like more information about the Potton (Mansonville) Firefighters or First Responders visit: www.potton.ca or contact Ronney Korman at 450-292-3313 poste 225 korman.r@potton.ca