JANUARY 29, 2020
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Vegreville Fire Department Hosts Open House Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
ther, who passed away about a year ago, had some great adventures and stories to tell from his time on the department, and he always loved to hear Brandon’s stories. Things aren’t always serious, and he enjoys the times when they play floor hockey games in full gear or participate in hose coupling exercises. Paul Scherba also
Brandon Bay was one of several firefighters on hand to welcome visitors during the Vegreville Fire Department’s open house on Jan. 25. Bay described his own personal experience with the fire department as “amazing” and would recommend it to anyone. “Joining the fire department was probably one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” said the 19-year-old Vegreville resident. Bay said he hadn’t heard about the junior firefighting program before, but hopped on board once he learned of its existence. It has been three years since he joined the department, and he said he’s gained a lot of confidence, acquired many new life skills, received lots of encouragement and ventured outside his comfort zone to grow personally and professionally. “It’s a very rewarding career.” Lt. Brayden Ferguson participated in the jaws of life demonstration during the While some of the training Vegreville Fire Department’s Open House on Jan. 25. (Michelle Pinon/Photo) has been tough, Bay said you are never forced to do something you’re not ready for, and there is always help and enjoys those fun-filled times. Scherba also went support from fellow members at all times and in any through the junior firefighter program, and said given situation. “They have your back and will pick you it brought structure and discipline to his life. He up when you fall.” Whether it’s during practice or out on loves the camaraderie with the firefighters, serva call, Bay said members are always “checking in” to see ing the community and participating in special how you are doing mentally and physically. “You always events throughout the year. train like your life depends on it, because it does.” He Fire Chief Phil Rowe said the junior firefighttries is to be one step ahead, and finds strength and ing program was first introduced into the departcomfort in knowing he can trust and rely on his brothers ment by former Fire Chief Jerrold Lemko in and sisters in the department. 2001. The program is open to students 16 years Bay is the third generation in his family to carry on the of age and serves as work experience under the firefighting tradition, behind his father Wayne Bay and Alberta school curriculum. Students can receive a his grandfather Wesley Shewchuk. Bay said his grandfa- maximum of five credits per school year which
equals 125 hours of service. . In fact, Rowe’s daughter also went through the program. To date, five former junior firefighters have gone onto full-time careers in
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