Firefighter proud to serve community, help others

By Rob Vogt

Eric Chatterton has always wanted to help people and serve his community.
He found the right position to fulfill both those goals five years ago on a snowy night when he attended an open house held by the Claresholm Fire Department at the fire hall.
Chatterton joined the fire department soon after and, five years later, is a captain.
He emphasized every member of the department is able to handle every duty, be it running the truck, being on the hose line or anything else.
“We’re all flexible and support each other,” Chatterton said. “We share the load – whatever is needed.”
Because the department is made up of volunteers, each member brings a unique set of skills to the job.
“We’ve got people from every avenue of background,” Chatteron said.
There are farmers, mechanics, medical professionals, physiotherapists, cooks, and so much more.
“The variety of experiences adds to the ability to meet needs,” he said.
For Chatterton, his motivation is simple.
“I’ve always loved being involved and helping others,” he said. “I love the pride and the honour of public service.”
Chatterton also enjoys the technology, training, and fire practice.
Another important component is the social environment and camaraderie that exists among the members of the department.
“There are people I would never normally meet,” Chatterton said. “You develop relationships.
“You always have people to call on.”
That included senior members of the department such as Danny Egger, Gerald McNair and Grant Ling, who Chatterton said he learned from, and his captain Kris Benna.
One of the things he really appreciated when he was talking about joining was the honesty about the role. The department was also very respectful of Chatterton’s priorities that family is first.
Being a firefighter and first responder has meant giving up family and personal time.
“But I don’t regret it,” he said.
It has also come with some challenges, and sad times for people involved in the calls the department responds to.
“I’m glad I can be one of the people there for people (in those times),” Chatterton said.
Different calls always have the potential to trigger different people.
Chatterton said someone is going through a lot in those moments, so firefighters do their work and are respectful.
“We strive to do everything right in the first place,” he said.
“We let the public know we’re there because we care,” he added.
Chatterton noted all the first responders are united by a common goal.
“To serve the community in every way we can,” he said.
After one of those sad or challenging calls, firefighters do spend time together.
“I think that helps us get through tough times,” he said.
Chatterton stressed spouses are an important support as well.
Looking forward, he said the department is looking for new members and encourages everyone to do as he did – seek more information about the fire department.
“I recommend it to anyone who wants to help the community and serve,” Chatterton said, adding there are some hard things to do.
He noted the fire department may not be for everybody though.
“It’s one of many ways to serve the community,” Chatterton said, adding people are needed throughout the community for various roles.
“Our community only succeeds because of the cumulative efforts of what people do,” he said.
“Kindness and service make the community.
“Everybody can do their part.”