Image Credit: Columbia-Shuswap Regional District

By James Peters

Firefighting

Lack of North Shuswap firefighters could threaten insurance rates for property owners

Feb 11, 2020 | 10:51 AM

SCOTCH CREEK, B.C. — The Scotch Creek/Lee Creek Fire Department is putting out an urgent call for volunteers.

According to a news release from the Columbia-Shuswap Regional District (CSRD), the volunteer fire department is now below its mandatory level of firefighters to maintain Superior Tanker Shuttle Accreditation for local residents.

If that accreditation lapses, the CSRD says residents served by this fire department will see their property insurance rates skyrocket.

The CSRD notes the Scotch Creek/Lee Creek department can still respond in an “adequate” time to emergencies, it occasionally needs to call on the department in neighbouring Celista to supplement its response.

The department wants to increase its numbers to a sustainable level.

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Volunteer firefighters are paid on-call. They receive compensation for mileage and training, as well.

“Firefighters get to give back to their communities in rewarding ways. They provide community leadership and have the opportunity to build strong skills in firefighting, equipment operating, and administration while enjoying time with other dedicated community members,” notes Derek Sutherland, CSRD Team Leader of Protective Services.

Those interested in volunteers can get more information here.