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Parksville's fire department looking for new recruits

Volunteer firefighters are people who care about their communities and want to be actively involved

The Parksville Volunteer Fire Department is seeking enthusiastic men and women to become volunteer firefighters.

The department will begin a new recruit group this spring and is now accepting applications for volunteer on-call firefighters.

Volunteer firefighters are people who care about their communities and want to be actively involved and have more than just a desire to help people, according to a news release from the City of Parksville. "They also have courage and dedication, assertiveness and a willingness to learn new skills, face new challenges and work as part of a team," said the release.

Volunteer on-call firefighters respond to emergencies 365 days a year.

"You will be trained, you will be challenged and your life will change," said the city. The city said candidates for volunteer firefighters should be:

• Team oriented.

• 19 years of age or older (junior member, age 16).

• Healthy and physically fit (medical and fitness screening required).

• A good driver (valid B.C. driver's licence and a good driving record).

• Of good character (RCMP security check required).

• Able and willing to commit to the community.

• Live in the Parksville fire protection area (ideally within City of Parksville boundaries).

• Daytime availability preferred.

• Able to attend weekly training sessions.

• A non-smoker.

Firefighting offers challenges, both personal and professional In addition to the extensive training in all aspects of firefighting to meet these challenges, the benefits of being a volunteer firefighter include community recognition and personal satisfaction, the chance to make new friends and be involved in community activities — from firefighting and rescue to public education. The department also offers a junior program for those under the age of 19, providing an introduction to life as a PVFD member.

To learn more about being a firefighter, stop by the fire hall during business hours (Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.) to speak with one of our officers. Interested individuals may pick up an application form at the Parksville Fire Department (160 Jensen Avenue West) or online at www.pvfd.ca. Closing date for applications is Friday, March 4 at 4 p.m.

— City of Parksville news release