The dream of an updated training site continues to take shape for members of the Carman-Dufferin Fire Department (CDFD).
It all began about 6 years ago when the old and unsafe facility was demolished, explained Fire Chief Chris Lemky. A grant through the Office of the Fire Commissioner (OFC) also helped pay for the site to be levelled, graveled and fenced in. The department was also able to purchase and set up few sea containers, which are used to light fires and practice different firefighting, search and rescue, high-angle rescue and ladder techniques.
"Years ago, we would rely heavily on old houses that people would donate. They wanted them demolished from their yard if they were starting fresh or remove an old yard site to turn into farm land, so we liked to get our hands on those and practice burns in there but it's getting fewer and far between that we're able to get our hands on those," explained Lemky, noting the growing need for an updated training facility. "We were finding ourselves travelling a lot. We would have to go to Brandon and use the OFC site. Winkler has a training facility (and) we were travelling to use it."
The need was also great on a regional basis, added Lemky, noting the department often hosts Level 1 and Level 2 fire fighter training for the Boyne River Mutual Aid District.
And the work isn't done yet, added Lemky, noting it will be a work in progress for a few more years. Ultimately, the plan is to construct a building on the site, complete with hydro and washrooms, to hold classes.
"There's lot of things in works!"
Thank you
Meantime, the project continues to receive generous support from the community it serves.
Just last month, $5,500 was raised during the department's annual boot drive at the Carman Country Fair.
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"Fighting fires is only a portion of what happens around the CDFD. You’ll see our firefighters bartending socials, cooking at BBQs, providing first aid at special events, providing fire suppression for the demo derby, tractor pulls and fireworks," explained a CDFD social media post. "You’ll see them putting hours upon hours into training, maintaining equipment, and helping out wherever is needed. Even deploying to northern communities to assist with wildfires.
Each one of these members dedicates incredible time, effort and passion into the department and community and we are thankful for the support we receive back. This community never ceases to amaze us with generosity.
Thank you to everyone who has supported us in some way, and to those that continue to support us each year!"
Lemky added, the department was also fortunate to hire a local welder and builder to do a lot of the work at the site.
As for what the future holds, Lemky said it will be a work in progress over the next few years to complete the plans.