By Rob Vogt Starting in the 1880s, after fire department crews returned from a call on horse-drawn equipment, the animals were unable to back into the fire station.Consequently, fire department members were required to take the horses off the equipment, and push it into the bay themselves.Over time, with the development of motorized apparatus, the need to manually move the … Read more…
By Rob VogtThe role of firefighters has evolved over time.Once primarily concerned with answering fire calls and motor vehicle collisions, the role has expanded to involve so much more as first responders.“You’re expected to be a jack of all trades,” said Kelly Starling, emergency services manager for the Municipal District of Willow Creek.That includes fires, medical calls, motor vehicle collisions, … Read more…
By Rob VogtThe Claresholm General Hospital has received a new piece of valuable equipment that will benefit health care in the community.The LUCAS Chest Compression System arrived two weeks ago, and with staff trained last week, is already in use.Barry Arnestad, clinical nurse educator, said the new equipment is a Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR device that allows nurses and doctors to … Read more…
By Rob VogtThe newest member of the Claresholm detachment of the RCMP is settling in nicely.Constable Marcus Henningsson started his posting in Claresholm on April 12, just four days after graduating from training at Depot in Regina on April 8.His trainer is Constable Chris Vytek.“I’m really enjoying it,” he said. “The community is fantastic.“Everybody’s very receptive.”Henningsson, whose father is from Sweden … Read more…
By Jesse Boily, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter While out on life-saving training, the Grande Prairie Technical Search and Rescue (GPTSR) team was the victim of the theft of “multiple items essential for emergency response.” The theft occurred at the 17.5 KM Canfor Bridge Wednesday, July 10, between 7:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. “It is truly disheartening to have items stolen from … Read more…
By Rob VogtIt was a chance to shine a spotlight on the high school students who have been working hard all year long learning the skills of a firefighter.The Granum Fire Academy Class of 2024 held a celebration on June 19 at the Granum Fire Hall, where students were recognized for their achievements.The Class of 2024 is:• Quynlen Darragh;• Brooklyn … Read more…
By Rob VogtThe Stavely Fire Department has a new fire chief, who brings a wealth of knowledge to his new role.Ben Blakeley was officially appointed chief on March 19 by Stavely town council, but has been a member of the department for five years.Born in Montreal, Blakeley moved to Calgary where he earned experience in a variety of fields.He has … Read more…