It’s apropos that the Athabasca and Colinton fire departments both held open houses recently, when the consequences of fire are at the forefront of most people’s thoughts.
In particular, the Athabasca Fire Department’s centennial celebration last weekend helps us all recognize the invaluable service the volunteer brigade has provided our community for the last 100 years.
From the early days of hand-wheeled fire carts and hoses to more recent innovations like the Jaws of Life, multiple generations of brave men and women have risked life and limb to help protect our community and its residents. And, as demonstrated recently, they also go above and beyond to help out those in neighbouring communities when the need arises.
Most impressively, local firefighters are all volunteers with lives, jobs and families, who willingly put those other roles on hold when a call comes in.
So when you see a local firefighter, thank them. Or better yet, consider signing up as a new recruit. As we’ve seen over the last few weeks, it’s a community service we can’t live without.
