The interest in the Junior Firefighter program is extending beyond the borders of Bonnechere Valley.
Eganville – The interest in the Junior Firefighter program is extending beyond the borders of Bonnechere Valley, Fire Chief Darryl Wagner told council last Tuesday afternoon.
“I have been receiving calls from outside the township,” he said. “Youth have been expressing interest.”
He said one of the calls was from Petawawa.
“Don’t put up silos,” Mayor Jennifer Murphy said. “If people want to come, come ahead.”
The chief said he agreed although he was trying to focus on the township.
“It is not costing us anything and if we help out our neighbours, we help out our neighbours,” he said.
“If they are willing to come in and work with you…” said Councillor Brent Patrick.
Having junior firefighters from beyond the township borders makes sense, he said.
“Maybe you will be recruiting to the area when they want to buy a house,” he suggested.
The chief said he would accept anyone reaching out. He said there would be a number which could be done safely and when this is reached he will have to stop accepting new applicants for the current year.
Mayor Murphy said having a vibrant program could encourage more youth to participate.
“If there are youth in our township that see it going well it is proof of concept and maybe they will want to join in the Class of 2025,” he said.
The chief said he is excited about seeing how the program will grow. He has been trying to promote it widely.
Chief Wagner said no one is doing a program like this in the county. He said he tried something similar in Greater Madawaska but did not push it as much, so he is hoping this program will be successful.
Application forms are available at the township office or Opeongo High School.
The department is always recruiting for new firefighters.