Forty Mile Fire Service: Training hard and engaged in the community

Posted on October 10, 2024 by Ryan Dahlman

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers

Mark Myra, Regional Fire Chief, Forty Mile Fire Service, has a “chilling” revelation to share, “This year 28 of our members participated in a technical ice rescue course.”

This team battles hot fires, cold waters, and every situation in between to help keep people, residences, and businesses safe. With Fire Prevention Week underway, let’s take a look at what else the service has been up to during 2024.

During this season, Forty Mile Fire Service has received some new, and some repurposed, vehicles. They participated in parades in Burdett, Foremost, and Milk River, as well as in a casino fundraiser. On October 15 (in Burdett) and October 16 (Foremost) they will present Mary Lamberts Production, Sing Out About Fire Safety.

Aimed at children in grades K-7, Sing Out About Fire Safety is an engaging educational initiative designed to teach children about fire prevention and safety through interactive music, dance, and drama. Touring across Canada, Lambert’s performances incorporate colourful costumes, humour, and audience participation to convey crucial safety messages. The program encourages children to share their newfound knowledge with their families, enhancing community awareness. Supported by fire departments and featuring a CD with songs in both English and French, the initiative aims to instill lasting fire safety habits in young audiences, making learning both fun and memorable.

Forty Mile Fire Service is largely staffed by volunteers, and therefore applications remain open. Myra details the informal interview process.

“Those looking to join can meet with their local fire station’s district chief to fill out an application. Those are forwarded to me, and then I will meet with applicable applicants. There is a probationary period to see if it is a good fit.”

He concludes with his top fire safety tip, “Smoke alarms are vital. Ensuring you have new, fresh batteries in your alarm every six months to a year is very important. Smoke alarms are your family’s first line of defense.”

Learn more about Forty Mile Fire Service at http://www.40mile.ca/protective-services.