MIDALE — Midale's new fire hall has been making a big difference for the community and the members of the Midale/Cymri Fire and Rescue and First Responders since it opened in February.
Fire Chief Laverne Hockey said the building has easy access and they can enter and exit from any direction. A grand opening was held in June.
"We have had a few fire calls this fall. We've had two first responder calls. A couple of MVAs [motor vehicle accidents]," said Hockey.
The building has lots of room for their equipment, which is now under one roof.
"We have more space to walk around equipment and keep it in shape," he said.
The building will fill up more once winter arrives, he said, because a couple of pieces of equipment belonging to the RM of Cymri will be stored inside the building.
The building is home to a rescue unit for the first responders. It has some water in it and a fire-rated pump. The machine has been used for grass fires. A pumper truck is used for structure, tractor, grass and oilfield fires. They also have a command centre, while a Gator vehicle is deployed when they have to navigate around pastures.
"It's quite handy for getting around into the rocky area down here," said Hockey.
The fire department also has self-contained breathing apparatus in the new fire hall, along with some other equipment.
The new fire hall has also made a big difference for the fire department's training nights. Earlier this year, Premier Scott Moe stopped by to tour the building during a visit to Midale.
The fire department did some fundraising for the building, with a pancake breakfast and other activities.
Hockey said they have had some interest from people looking to join the fire department and the first responders. They currently have approximately 12 dedicated members, and they would like to get to 15, but Hockey said the new recruits have to be dedicated and willing to work as a team. Most of the first responders are also firefighters.
He thanked the public for their support, as all of the donations made a big difference to the project.
