Nine new part-time firefighters have joined the ranks of North Battleford Fire and Emergency Services (NBFES).
The new firefighters are nearing the completion of in-house and field training.
"It has been several years since our fire department has been at this staffing level," said NBFES Deputy Chief of Operations Robin Tomaz. "There are five new recruits that have just completed training in safety/orientation and are able to respond to emergencies. The other four are going through a six-week training program and will be able to respond to emergencies after successful completion of that course."
Part-time firefighters are paid whenever they are called to assist full-time firefighters in a wide variety of fire and rescue operations. Six of the new recruits live in the community and three are taking up posts at NBFES headquarters. There is a waiting list for the live-in program.
"I am very proud to be part of the team at NBFES. This is an opportunity to meet personal challenges while, at the same time, giving back to our community," said Ryan Bater, part-time firefighter.
Tomaz said he congratulates the new part-time recruits and welcomes them to NBFES.
NBFES employs one chief, two deputy chiefs, 12 full-time firefighters, one administrative staff member and 19 part-time firefighters.
