qathet Regional District (qRD) has announced the receipt of a grant award of $82,500 through the Fire Chiefs Association and BC Officer of the Fire Commissioner for live fire training props for the Northside Volunteer Fire Department.
According to a qRD media release, this grant funding will be used to purchase and install props at the live fire training facility at the Northside Volunteer Fire Department’s fire hall near Lund. This live fire training facility is for the region’s firefighters to practice propane fires, vehicle fires and dumpster fires, in a safe and controlled environment.
“Thanks to this vital funding support, the qRD and Northside Volunteer Fire Department will help provide localized situational live fire training for all first responders in our region,” stated Clay Brander, regional board chair. “This incredible opportunity will enhance the skills of our hard-working volunteers, enabling them to better serve and protect our community. With highly trained first responders, we can safeguard life and property while building resilience in our region.”
The live fire prop installation project will kick off immediately, with training props scheduled to be ready for use this spring, the release stated. The intent of the live fire training facility is to support qRD’s fire departments, as well as offer a local facility for fire training for all firefighters in the region, with opportunities to practice both interior and exterior fire suppression skills and tactics.
qRD operates four volunteer fire departments, including the Northside Volunteer Fire Department, Savary Island Fire Department, Lasqueti Island Volunteer Fire Department and Malaspina Volunteer Fire Department. These departments are made up of more than 120 committed volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to help protect qRD communities, the release stated.
For more information on qRD fire protection services, visit qathet.ca/fire-protection-services.
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