Invaluable to everyone

Why is it that fire departments are not being provided with what they need to do their job? It may sound like a bit of a naive question, but wouldn't you consider fire protection to be as important in your daily life as heath care, police forces, transportation, social programs, etc? Not to say government doesn't commit anything to fire departments, but when you have ones where bunker suits are not passing inspection and they have to fundraise to replace them, there's something wrong with that picture.

Why is it that volunteer fire departments in this province have to struggle to have the necessary equipment to respond to emergency situations? It's been said before and may sound like a broken record, but our volunteer firefighters put their lives on the line without asking for anything in return. It is a fact that we need to be reminded of, not just when there is a fire or emergency situation and we automatically expect for these men and women to be on the scene to help us in what may be one of the greatest times of need in our lives or in the life of a loved one.

Communities where there are volunteer fire departments are to be applauded for their commitment to their fire protection services by offering support for fundraisers. Every little bit counts and it is through the efforts of the volunteer firefighters or the community organizing fundraisers that there is money for vital equipment. It shouldn't have to be such a struggle for them. Fire departments are essential lifelines in our communities and need to be treated as such.

The Kinsmen Club of Notre Dame and Lewisporte Area Consumers Co-op recently showed their support for a couple of local fire departments through contributions from the 50/50 initiative (see related article on page 3A). Their contributions are an example of how volunteer fire departments are able to survive.

But the needs are still great for many fire departments in our communities. Whether it be equipment or recruitment, these departments always seem to be facing an uphill battle. They deserve our support and we need to find a way for them to be able to focus all their efforts on what really matters, not worrying about whether or not their bunker suit is going to protect them if they have to enter a burning building.

- Karen Wells