Consider the life changing act of becoming a volunteer firefighter

St. Marys Fire Department is holding a Firefighter Recruit Open House on June 13

The St. Marys Fire Department (SMFD) is currently recruiting new volunteer firefighters. Anyone interested in learning more is invited to an open house on June 13 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

“Our volunteers consist of everyday people, they could be carpenters, cement plant workers, factory workers, farmers, electricians, mechanics, or work at the local car dealership,” said Fire Chief and Director of Emergency Management, Richard “Andy” Anderson. “They are from all different age groups, backgrounds, and cultures. We pride ourselves on being a very diverse group coming together to help our neighbours and community members in times of great need.”

The SMFD currently consists of one full time Fire Chief, one part time Chief Fire Prevention Officer and 24 volunteer firefighters.

“Our team is an extremely dedicated group of members who spend time away from their normal day-to-day tasks performing activities such as responding to fire calls, rescue calls, fire training, attending fire courses, attending community events, and maintaining apparatus and equipment,” said Fire Chief Anderson.

Anderson states that all the members have served for different lengths of time. “Our probationary firefighters have been with the department for one year while the long-term members, like Captains Ryan Taylor and Phil West, have served 28 years. I am proud to say all members show great dedication to the Fire Service and to the citizens of St. Marys and Perth South.”

Those who are interested in volunteering with the fire department are invited to attend the Firefighter Recruit Open House on June 13, 2023, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the St. Marys Fire Hall at 172 James Street South. There they will have the opportunity to meet and interact with the firefighters, take a tour of the fire hall, view displays of fire apparatus and equipment and enjoy a briefing presented by Fire Chief Anderson to explain the application process of becoming a volunteer firefighter.  

“We are truly blessed and so proud of the volunteers that risk and sacrifice so much in the service of others,” Anderson says. “We want to thank each one of them from the bottom of our hearts. Thank you for all that you do, and we look forward to seeing some new members join our team.”

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For media inquiries:
Richard “Andy” Anderson, Director of Emergency Services/Fire Chief
519-284-2340, ext. 201 | randerson@town.stmarys.on.ca