Volunteers firefighters will get to work out front and be part of the action (CHFVD)

By Chelsea Cavanagh

BUILDING THE TEAM

Recruitment drive underway for local volunteer fire department

Feb 19, 2023 | 6:10 AM

QUALICUM BEACH — Coombs-Hillers Volunteer Fire Department (CHVFD) is looking for anyone who’s ready to put their firefighting skills to the test.

They are recruiting volunteers of any background who like a challenge and are willing to work together to provide fire and emergency response support to the community.

Fire chief Ron Schildroth said they are looking for at least ten volunteers but are “willing to take more”.

“We’re looking for anyone ages 16 and above. So 16 to 19 would be a junior firefighter and anyone 19 and above would be a regular firefighter, and we’re looking for both.”

Shildroth added that they have no specific skill requirements.

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“We’re pretty flexible, we supply all the training here. But if they’ve got any skills they can bring to the table that’s always good, like a trade of some kind like construction, mechanical, anything like that is always good. Previous firefighting experience and medical training is good as well.”

Along with basic training, the department will also provide recruits with professional firefighter certification and the opportunity to make a positive contribution to their community.

The volunteer position requires regular training and on-call commitment, but allows flexibility for those with full-time careers.

Volunteers can expect to be fighting fires, responding to motor vehicle accidents, attending medical emergencies and more.

Shildroth said they do a recruitment every year, as they rely on volunteers to ensure the community receives the help they need, when they need it.

“We respond to upwards of 300 calls a year. I encourage area residents who are interested in learning more about the commitment and the rewards of volunteering to contact us. Some may be surprised to discover that they can achieve their goal of being a volunteer firefighter while still fulfilling the needs of their personal and professional lives.”

Any area residents who are looking for more information can visit their website, or speak to firefighters in person at the CHVFD booth at the Annual Coombs Family Day Celebration on Monday, Feb. 20.

Applications must be submitted by Apr. 30.

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