The Vavenby Volunteer Fire Department held an open house on Saturday, April 30, inviting the community to check out the new addition and firefighting tools, as well as take part in firefighting and highway rescue demonstrations.
Both the VFD and Blackpool Fire Rescue halls received grant funding for bay upgrades to support the addition of wildfire equipment, such as a bush truck and structural protection trailer. Total project costs for the renovations were about $445,000 for the Vavenby hall, which is now complete.
At the open house, visitors could check out the various types of firefighting equipment available in Vavenby, such as standard engines, but also a new side-by-side to help fight wildfires. The firefighters also provided extinguisher training, setting up empty cans and bottles as targets, as well as demonstrations on highway rescue equipment, including the Jaws of Life cutter and spreader, and glass-cutting tools.
A cheque presentation was made by Banister employees to VFD fire chief Philip Weber for $4,000. The funds are earmarked for new equipment, including a second rescue clutch and ropes, as well as turbo flares to assist the air ambulance at night.
newsroom@clearwatertimes.com
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