The Responder - Alberta Fire Chiefs Association

Fall/Winter 2015 | 1

Fall/Winter 2015

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esponderA L B E R T A F I R E C H I E F S A S S O C I A T I O N

Fire House Family

A First For Alberta—CVFSA Lifetime

Achievement Award

Southwestern Alberta’s Historical

Marvel

2 | The Responder

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Can you identify where these fire halls are located?Fort Saskatchewan, AB _____Valemount, BC ____La Glace, AB ____Beaver Mines, AB ____Bonnyville, AB ____Beaverlodge, AB ____Ponoka, AB ____

Bamfield, BC ____Lundbreck, AB ____Hythe, AB ____Valleyview, AB ____Jasper, AB ____Grande Prairie, AB ____Vauxhall, AB ____

Fox Creek, AB ____Deline, NWT ____Parkland County, AB ____Elk Point, AB ____Wembley, AB ____Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, AB ____

Picture Butte, AB ____DeBolt, AB ____Taber, AB ____St. Walburg, Sask. ____

Sexsmith, AB ____

Answers on page 33.


CONTENTS 5 From The Publisher

■ AFCA AND PROVINCIAL NEWS

6 Volunteer To AFCA President

8 A Wild Time For The Wildland

10 Calgary Here We Come

■ FIRE FIGHTERS IN ACTION

12 Fire House Family

17 A First For Alberta—CVFSA Lifetime Achievement Award

22 A Well Organized And Effective Fire Department

■ FIRE INDUSTRY NEWS

24 AFRRCS Radio Basics Alberta Meets The CHALLENGE

28 Cooler Temperatures Bring Increased Emphasis On Carbon Monoxide Awareness

30 The Road To Leadership

■ HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

34 A Fishing Trip To Remember!

36 Southwestern Alberta’s Historical Marvel

The Responder is the official publication of the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association. The magazine is published twice a year.

The publication is distributed free of charge to emergency services personnel throughout Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and British Columbia. In addition, The Responder is distributed to urban and rural municipalities, Members of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta and other organizations with an interest in fire and related emergency services.

Publication Mail Agreement: 40065432 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to:

Rose Country Advertising & Public Relations 11904 -113 Avenue Edmonton, Alberta Canada T5G 3C2

Phone: 1.780.451.5670 Email: [email protected]

Publisher/Editor Brian Stecyk Email: [email protected]

Advertising Sales Kelley Johnston Email: [email protected]

Creative Director Margaret Horton Email: [email protected]

Copyright 2015, RC and AFCA. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means in whole or in part without the expressed written consent of the publisher or the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association.

Cover Photo: Lieutenant Lynn Brasnett, Pincher Creek Emergency Services (see page 12-16).

ResponderesponderTHE

A L B E R T A F I R E C H I E F S A S S O C I A T I O N

4 | The Responder

By now most of you know that I will be resigning my position as executive director of the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association, June 30, 2016. It has been a wonderful 10 years. I have worked with some amazing people and together we have achieved a great deal.

I first started with the AFCA in 1984 as a member-at-large. I stayed on the board until 2006 when I became executive director. Although I will be leaving just after the next conference, the AFCA has advertised the position and submitted applications are being reviewed. Selection of a new executive director will be made before the end of this year.

During my tenure we have accomplished a great deal. The AFCA is much stronger as we have built up a strong sponsorship base. We have our own magazine, The Responder, that reflects the fire fighting industry in Western Canada. Our recruitment and retention program is exceptional and is being developed as a national initiative. I think our greatest successes are the relationships we have built with the provincial government. It is now more a partnership than anything

else as we work together to accomplish common goals. With the new leadership, I am sure much more is to come. The AFCA also has a strong working partnership with the two municipal associations, AAM&C and AUMA.

I can’t remember when the last AFCA conference was held in Calgary but the next one will be. Thanks to the great effort of the conference committee with Olds Fire Chief Lorne Thompson as Chair and Ken Hubbard Deputy Fire Chief of Airdrie as Co-chair. Most of the program and events have already been organized. I hope to see you there during the meetings, at hospitality events or at the trade show.

I wish to thank all those people who I have had the privilege to work with over the past 10 years. They have freely shared their ideas and we have worked together as a team. Thank you!

Bill Purdy Executive Director, AFCA Deputy Chief Wabamun Fire DepartmentDear Friends,

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From The Publisher

One of the greatest joys I have as publisher of this magazine is the opportunity to travel and meet people. I am constantly amazed at how willing people in the fire fighting profession are to talk and discuss their activities.

Not one person has ever expressed regrets at being a volunteer fire fighter and most would not trade it for anything. They really are committed to what they do. Most often they also talk about the people they work with rather than the incidents they respond to. If during an interview I want information about incidents, I usually have to ask.

It is the people that make the fire departments. Also, the gender mix has changed with some departments having more women than men especially those that are also engaged in ambulance and medical response. It is a profession that few big-city residents would even consider.

Over the past few years I have often discussed volunteer fire fighting with people living in areas with full-time fire services. Not one person I talked to would ever become a volunteer fire fighter. They all say they would be unwilling to make the personal and family sacrifices that volunteer fire fighters make every day. They are usually amazed that anyone is willing to do so.

It is the way of life in rural areas of Canada. I live in Parkland County and I am grateful for every volunteer we have. I have never needed them but I often see them at motor vehicle collisions and occasionally at fires. I certainly do not take them for granted and I say a thank you every time I pass them.

Saying thanks is something we need to do more of. The selfless contribution that volunteer fire fighters make needs to be recognized.

Thank you!

Brian Stecyk Publisher/Editor

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6 | The Responder

AFCA AND PROVINCIAL NEWS

Volunteer To AFCA PresidentBy Brian Stecyk

Thirty-five years ago a young cabinet maker moved from Calgary to Camrose to pursue his career. He found work in a local cabinet shop. Shortly after arriving a friend invited him to visit the fire hall and to try being a volunteer fire fighter.

Not a person afraid to try new things, Peter Krich accepted the challenge as an adjunct to his cabinet making career. Becoming a fire fighter meant lots of training something that Peter really believed in. Peter says, “I had lots of time to train at the Alberta Fire School, now Lakeland College, and I took full advantage of it.”

Fire services in Camrose were evolving and new visions for the service were bringing about lots of change. One of them was a decision in 1991 to create a full-time training officer position. “It was a time for soul searching—I had a senior position in a cabinet shop and applying for and getting the training officer position would mean a major career change,” adds Peter. “I liked the new fire department vision and the prospects of a new career opportunity so I applied. Based upon my dedication as a volunteer fire fighter and my commitment to training and learning everything I could, I was hired to work with the

Fire Chief and Deputy Chief in the new training capacity.”

Peter was a natural—he loved every moment of his job as he developed a full-time training program. He continued to have a close connection with the Alberta Fire School and even taught a few courses for them. Soon training became part of life for new and experienced fire fighters in Camrose.

“The City of Camrose has always had a philosophy of promoting and hiring from within so when the Fire Chief retired in 1996, I had the opportunity to become Deputy Chief. Training moved with me so instead of having three full time management positions, I had two. I was also responsible for inspections, so I was quite busy,” states Peter.

In 2000 the Fire Chief retired and Peter became the new Fire Chief. “It doesn’t seem like 15 years.” says Peter, “It went by quickly.” Like every other thing Peter undertook he enjoys every moment of it—especially when he sees someone move through the ranks from the floor to management positions.”

“We have been fortunate to have a visionary City Council,” boasts Peter. “We needed a new fire hall and they agreed that we should have one that would accommodate growth and although it is much larger than we need at the moment it was designed and built on the basis of a 30-year time horizon. It was a big decision for the Council and they have to be congratulated for it.”

One of the philosophies that has guided Peter’s life is: “you can’t live inside a box and grow—the world is much bigger than your own backyard—you need to meet people and share ideas if you are going to grow.

As Deputy Chief in 1996, Peter got involved with the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association. “It is important to learn from others and the only way to do that is to meet with them and talk. That’s one of the main purposes of the



AFCA. I have learned so much as other fire fighters have always shared their knowledge and expertise. What I have learned has certainly made me better at the things that I do,” says Peter.

Peter started as a regional director and later served as second vice-president and then first vice-president of the AFCA. He was elected president at the Annual Conference and Trade Show in June 2015. He is now filling the big shoes that Brian Cornforth left.

“I look at the AFCA as an organization that is respected and highly regarded. We have built a great relationship with government and over the past years they have consulted with us and have made significant changes to programs and legislation based upon our recommendations and input. Two initiatives we spearheaded include changes to Workers’ Compensation Board policy related to presumptive cancers and secondly PTSD. The AFCA will be meeting with the Minister of Municipal Affairs in December to initiate building relationships with the newly elected officials. We also have to maintain and build a higher profile through the Office of the Fire Commissioner because the Commissioner is our real access to government. We will pursue our mandate of bringing issues to the Fire Commissioner so he can take them through government,” promises Peter.

One of the first projects that Peter undertook when he became member of the AFCA board was that of “recruitment and retention” of volunteer fire fighters. The program has been an overwhelming success and has recently been adopted by Canadian Firefighters Association as a national initiative.“It is something that we in Alberta produced and it is so gratifying to see people in other provinces want to follow our lead,” says Peter. He will be Alberta’s voice for the national program. He is member of the National Advisory Council that reports to the Canadian Association.

The AFCA has to be an advocate for all fire services in Alberta. “We can do that by creating “out-of-the-box relationships. We are all in the same business and building relationships with First Nations, municipalities, industry and communities is essential. It is so gratifying to see

that cooperative agreements between First Nations’ fire departments and other departments are working well,” adds Peter.

One of the main goals for the AFCA over the coming years is public communication. Too few people really understand that they are protected by volunteers. Volunteers must be recognized and thanked for what they do.

Another initiative that Peter is pursuing is movement of the AFCA Conference and Trade Show to various locations in the Province. “We were somewhat hesitant to have a conference in Grande Prairie. We worried about attendance but thanks to the great organizing efforts of Chief Dan Lemieux of Grande Prairie and Chief Everett Cooke of the County of Grande Prairie we had the largest attendance ever,” says Peter.

The 2016 conference will mark the first time in memory that the event will be held in Calgary. It will take place at the Grey Eagle Resort and Casino from May 29 to June 1, 2016. The facility is located on Tsuu T’ina Nation lands. It is anticipated that the southern Alberta location will attract delegates from First Nations and fire departments that traditionally do not attend conferences held in more northerly locations.

“I am looking forward to my term as president of the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association. I will do my best to foster an exchange of ideas and I will be a strong advocate for every fire service in Alberta—and that is a promise,” concludes Peter.

8 | The Responder

A Wild Time For The WildlandBy Brian Stecyk

We are committed to the safety of Albertans by

protecting their communities and their livelihoods from the danger of wildfire. That’s why

we deeply appreciate and thank our dedicated team of wildland fire fighters as they worked to help reduce the impact of a severe wildfire

season that challenged all of Western Canada.

““




Fire fighters from Jalisco, Mexico prepare to leave their homes to fight fires in Alberta.

Alberta’s natural areas took a real hit in 2015, with 1,786 wildfires, the third highest in the past 25 years. Fires destroyed more than 492,000 hectares—twice the 25-year average. Air tankers dropped almost 11,235,000 litres of retardant in their control efforts. It was a costly exercise with budgeted and emergency funding totalling over $500 million for the 2015 fire season.

Premier Notley said, “We are committed to the safety of Albertans by protecting their communities and their livelihoods from the danger of wildfire. That’s why we deeply appreciate and thank our dedicated team of wildland fire fighters as they worked to help reduce the impact of a severe wildfire season that challenged all of Western Canada.”

Two thousand nine hundred and four Albertans were hired as emergency fire fighters. They weren’t alone as 1,128 others from Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, the United Stated, New Zealand, Australia and Mexico arrived

with their aircraft to help.

Sixty-two brigadistas from Jalisco, Mexico arrived to assist with wildfire containment. It wasn’t a chance happening. Alberta’s ties with Jalisco began with agricultural trade in the 1990s and then a twinning agreement was signed 15 years ago. Alberta Agriculture made an emergency request as part of the Alberta and Jalisco Emergency Deployment Agreement. Since 2008, 220 fire fighters from Jalisco have worked, trained and fought fires through the Emergency Deployment program.

Interestingly, Albertans report one-third of wildfires in the province. They know to call 310-FIRE. At the same time however over one-half of wildfires this year were human caused.

It wasn’t a one-way street as after Alberta’s fires were under control 236 fire fighters, equipment and aircraft were loaned to other parts of Canada and the United States to fight late season wildfires.

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10 | The Responder

Calgary Here We ComeBy Brian Stecyk

No one can remember when the last AFCA conference and Trade Show was held in Calgary but it will be in 2016. Planning for the conference is well underway led by Fire Chief Lorne Thompson of Olds and Deputy Chief Ken Hubbard of Airdrie.

Delegates from throughout Alberta will be arriving in Calgary for the conference that runs from Sunday May 29 to Wednesday June 1. Those that like golf will arrive a day earlier to participate in the annual AFCA Golf Tournament which will be held at the River Spirit Golf Club on Saturday May 28.

A trade show will begin be held May 29 and May 30. Trade show details are currently being worked on so those interested should visit the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association

website often (www.afca.ab.ca).

If you like golf, you will love the River Spirit Golf Course. It is nestled along the Elbow River and Millburn Creek and as their website says, “River Spirit Golf Club actually boasts three different nine-hole layouts for a total of 27 holes that can be combined into many interesting layouts. All courses at River Spirit feature four different sets of tees to ensure an enjoyable round for every calibre of golfer. However, no matter how you choose to play River Spirit, you will still find yourself among some of the most picturesque scenery in all of golf.” Don’t miss the golf. Registration starts Saturday, at 11:30 am with a shotgun start at 1:00 pm. As in past years it will be a Texas scramble format and it will be followed by a great steak dinner. Register early on the AFCA website.


View from the T-box on Hole #3 at River Spirit Golf Club.

The Conference and Trade Show is being held at Grey Eagle Resort and Casino May 29 to

June 1, 2016. It is an amazing location with a great hotel and convention facility.


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The convention is about talking to friends, sharing ideas and having a good time..

These golfers were laughing so hard and having so much fun at

last year’s tournament, I wonder if they could hit the ball.

12 | The Responder

FIRE FIGHTERS IN ACTION

Fire House FamilyBy Brian Stecyk

Like most other fire departments, Pincher Creek Emergency Services provides unique services that enable them to respond to situations in their community. Unlike most other departments, however, Pincher Creek operates the ambulance service and provides a full-range of paramedic services. The department is one of the earliest in Alberta, having first being established in 1898 and then formally created when the Village of Pincher Creek was incorporated in 1906.

“Most of our members are cross-trained in both the fire and health side,” says Deputy Chief Pat Neuman. “It gives us special response capabilities that other departments can’t provide. Over a typical year we respond to about 1,200 ambulance calls, 200-300 fire and rescue situations and four to five structural fires. In 2014, we responded to a major commercial fire.”

Pincher Creek Emergency Services has a large response

(l to r) Deb Branden, Kathryn Feist, Deputy Chief Pat Neumann, Alyssa Scherer, Sariah Brasnett.



area which includes the Town of Pincher Creek, MD of Pincher Creek and the communities of Beaver Mines and Lundbreck. The rural area is rolling ranch lands with a huge back country. There are few trees and it seems the wind is always blowing—the area is the heart of the wind-power generation in Alberta with hundreds of wind turbines standing tall on the hilltops. To the east is the Piikani Nation (formerly the Peigan Nation). The Piikani Nation has its own fire department but through a mutual aid agreement works closely with Pincher Creek


Emergency Services. Pincher Creek Emergency Services also has a mutual aid agreement with the Cardston County Emergency Services and provides back up to response in Waterton National Park. Pincher Creek also has mutual aid agreements with MD of Foothills; MD of Willow Creek, Town of Fort Macleod and the City of Lethbridge. Fire response is a community effort as often with wildland fires a neighbouring Hutterite Colony will just show up with their water truck.

“Another of our significant partners is Alberta Environment and Parks in the forest protection zone,” says Neuman. “We are usually the first on scene and handle response until AEP arrives. AEP has an operational branch at the Pincher Creek Airport with the biggest tanker base south of Calgary.”

Providing emergency response along Highway 3 is a major activity of Pincher Creek Emergency Services. They provide technical rescue and respond to many motor vehicle collisions. Because of the constant wind and continually changing weather conditions during the winter the highway can be quite treacherous with drifting snow and ice.

The department must also be well-trained in search and rescue. People love enjoying the back country but can get into trouble. That’s when Pincher Creek Emergency Services is called to action. They may use quads or even

Most of our members are cross-trained in

both the fire and health side,” says Deputy Chief Pat Neuman. “It gives us special response

capabilities that other departments can’t

provide.

““

14 | The Responder


helicopters to rescue people in the mountainous country west of Pincher Creek.

“Two of our main focuses are training and caring for our members. Regular fire fighter training occurs on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month. Ambulance training is the first Thursday and technical rescue the third Thursday. We offer the full NFPA 1001 program and thanks to regional alliances share training with other departments,” says Neuman. “We want to ensure our members can respond to any situation whether it is a paramedic response, vehicle extrication, a wildland fire or a structural emergency response that is required.”

“As important or more important is the human side of Pincher Creek Emergency Services. We take care of each other. If we have problems we talk through them. After every call we hold a debriefing and people watch each other to see how the event affected others. If someone notices something we talk about it or get people the help they need. Fortunately we have tremendously supportive families and that helps a lot,” says Neuman.

That sentiment is echoed by Sariah Brasnett, paramedic and fire fighter. “The thing I like best is how the team works together to get the job done. I originally wanted to work as an EMT. Eleven years ago I started with the fire department but fortunately this department does both and now I am a full-time EMT.”

One of Alberta’s earliest fire departments as this 1905 photo shows.

A two-story outhouse was attached to the Windsor Hotel in Lundbreck. An ingenious design diverted sewage around the lower cubicles to accommodate second floor guests. The original structure is on display at Heritage Park in Calgary.

An ironic sign “Hot-N-Ready” next to a commercial fire being extinguished by the Pincher Creek fire fighters.



Sariah was responsible for her mother joining the service. “When Sariah joined she said they needed an ambulance driver and she recruited me,” says Lieutenant Lynn Brasnett. “Automatically I became a fire fighter and an EMT. Even though I have five children, 15 grandchildren and four great grandchildren, I still work with the fire department. Fortunately I own a real estate brokerage and can take the time. For families it is quite a sacrifice. You especially notice it on festive occasions, birthdays, anniversaries, and kids’ events. I wouldn’t change it but the public doesn’t really recognize or appreciate the sacrifices volunteer fire fighters make.”

This display of early coal cars greets visitors to the historic community of Beaver Mines.

16 | The Responder


“I wanted to make a difference. When my kids were young I couldn’t volunteer, but when they were old enough to be on their own there was time. A highlight for me was delivering fire trucks to Mexico through Rotary. We did EMS and fire training for 21 people at Sinola University. All the course materials had to be translated to Spanish and although we taught in English everything we said was quickly translated to the students. It was quite an experience to see people becoming first responders,” adds Lynn.

Pincher Creek Emergency Services puts a great deal of effort towards fire prevention. They engage in school programs, fire house tours, Fire Prevention Week, fire extinguisher training and fire drills. Deputy Chief Neuman recalls a fire drill at a seniors’ complex. A senior asked: “Can’t I just stay in my room and pretend I evacuated?”

The department conducts annual inspections of public facilities and engages with both the public and business community to provide inspections and fire safety advice.

“Our fire house family is the best recruiting tool we have. Because our department is such a positive place to be, word spreads and people want to be part of it. Our ratio of men to women is about 50/50 with 25 members in Pincher Creek, 10 to15 in Lunbreck, and eight to 10 in Beaver Mines,” says Neuman.

Like most fire departments Pincher Creek has a collection of historical fire fighting items.

The wind seems to always blow at Pincher Creek—home to hundreds of wind turbines generating electricity.



A First For Alberta — CVFSA Lifetime Achievement AwardBy Brian Stecyk

Visionary, committed, goal driven, leader, innovator, volunteer, successful and many other adjectives describe Jerrold Lemko, this year’s winner of the Canadian Volunteer Fire Services Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

The award announcement said, “For a sixth year the Canadian Volunteer Fire Services Association conducted a national search to name one of Canada’s best volunteer fire fighters based upon prescribed criteria. The award is known as the, “CVFSA Lifetime Achievement Award”©. The program is administered and managed by the CVFSA and the nomination process was open for a six month period. A committee of five volunteers from five different

regions of Canada reviewed the nominations and selected Fire Chief Jerrold J. Lemko, EMR from Vegreville, Alberta. This marks the first time this award has gone to an Alberta fire officer. It was noted that Chief Lemko has been in a leadership role his whole life in various roles such as coaching, sitting on community associations or his role in a management position as a fire chief or director with the regional fire training group.”

Raised in Holden, Alberta, Jerrold left to attend NAIT where he gained his Power Systems Electrician certification. He was hired by ATCO Electric to work on the power transmission system and following that he obtained his Occupational Health and Safety designation

Chief Jerrold Lemko is presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Canadian Volunteer Fire Services Association. (l to r) Eli El-Chantiry, Councillor for West Carleton-March, City of Ottawa, Anita and Jerrold Lemko, Melissa Arnold- Duracell Canada, Graham Pawlett- President Canadian Volunteer Fire Services Association.

18 | The Responder


through the U of A. He then provided Health, Safety and Environmental services for ATCO until his retirement on January 1, 2014 after a 40-year career. He has resided in Vegreville since 1975.

“Jerrold wanted to make his community better. Over the years he has volunteered and served on almost every community board or committee I can think of and most often he was chairperson,” says Captain Philip Rowe of the Vegreville Fire Department. “While working for ATCO he joined the volunteer fire department. That was 25 years ago this year and he shows no signs of slowing down.”

Hockey has always been one of Jerrold’s passions. He held every position from a coach to the president of Vegreville Minor Hockey. He then became involved with Hockey Alberta in their development programs. Soon he was vice-chair of hockey development where he has been volunteering for 20 years (1995 to present). At the same time he serves as liaison as Alberta’s representative on the Hockey Development Council of Hockey Canada (2002 to 2013). He is now a director-at-large on Hockey Alberta’s board of directors. He is also Liaison with

Alberta Sports Connection for Sports and for the Canada Summer and Winter Games.

“No matter what I undertook, I always strived to reach the

No matter what I undertook, I always strived

to reach the top —I wanted to excel and I wanted others around me to excel, says Jerrold. “I am not saying this to brag—I just believed in

doing the best and being the best I could be.

“

“The Vegreville Fire Department conducts annual landfill wood pile burns as part of training. This group photograph includes every member in their bunker gear.



top—I wanted to excel and I wanted others around me to excel,” says Jerrold. “I am not saying this to brag—I just believed in doing the best and being the best I could be.”

The Vegreville Fire Department has 44 current members. There is a chief, two deputies, four captains and three lieutenants. Their service area includes the Town of Vegreville and through a contractual agreement with the County of Minburn, the western half of the County. They also respond to a portion of Yellowhead Highway 16 and other highways in the area where motor vehicle collisions are a regular occurrence.

We have seen a significant decrease in fire activity,” says Captain Rowe. “We have fewer structure fires and a lot fewer rural calls. We attribute the change to two things. First, public education and emphasis on fire prevention has helped. Second, the County of Minburn has focused on landowner responsibility so that landowners are being held accountable for irresponsible burning.”

“Within town we have a lot of false alarm calls from in-home alarm systems. In our experience sales people often

encourage people to install alarm systems but they don’t ensure they know how to properly operate them. It’s a particular problem among seniors and in homes with young children.”

Chief Lemko spearheaded the Junior Fire Fighter Program in 2000. It has mushroomed into one of the most popular programs in the high school. Students can earn credits for work experience—each year they can participate for 125 hours and earn five credits. Every year five to 10 students participate and over 40 have completed the program since its inception. Students gain 15 credits for work experience by getting involved with the fire department each year from grade 10 to grade 12. Last year four former junior fire fighters completed NFPA 1001.

“We want them to feel like fire fighters. They get a uniform and bunker gear and attend calls, although, they are never involved in hazardous situations. Some of the students who come to the junior program are lost souls,” says Jerrold.“ By reaching out and making them part of the department they are transformed into proud participating adults. It is so rewarding to see the change.”

“Probably my most memorable time in the fire department was when I got to work with my son, Shawn (Sparky). One of his roles as a junior was to put on the Sparky costume and represent the department at local events. With that came the moniker. After being a junior fire fighter, he then decided to join as a volunteer. Although he is no longer with the department, I call him Sparky and he still calls me chief,” says Jerrold.

Congratulations Chief Jerrold Lemko

The Town of Vegreville congratulates Fire Chief Jerrold Lemko on being the first Albertan to win the Lifetime Achievement Award from the

Canadian Volunteer Fire Services Association.

Town of Vegreville4829 - 50 Street, Box 640Vegreville, Alberta T9C 1R7www.vegreville.com

Clara Hughes poses with the Vegreville Fire Department mascot, Sparky when she did her Clara’s Big Ride for Mental Health Awareness last year.

20 | The Responder

FIRE INDUSTRY NEWSFIRE FIGHTERS IN ACTION

Chief Lemko is credited with introducing a full training program, a recognition program, a way to handle equipment and apparatus replacement, the junior program, and putting an emphasis on public education. Today the department provides training in NFPA 1001, 1002, 1006, and 1021. They also provide confined space, vehicle extrication and hazardous material training. They are creating a committee to investigate building a training centre.

Chief Lemko was also given responsibility for ambulance services in 2008. This added 13 full-time staff and a very busy aspect of management. The ambulance service responds to about 2,200 calls per year.

Another memorable event for Chief Lemko was the call he received from the President of ATCO Electric during the floods in southern Alberta. “They called me because they knew how involved I was involved with fire fighting. I was asked to put together a team of eight ATCO employees who are volunteer fire fighters from across

our service area and deploy them to the disaster area. We supported other volunteer fire fighters by taking their places so they could get some rest and for many of them, attend to their own flooded basements.”

The Lifetime Achievement Award isn’t the only award Jerrold has received. In 2013 he was named Volunteer Fire Chief of the Year by the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs.

What’s next for Chief Lemko? “I was thinking of retiring but I am really attached to the fire department,” states Jerrold. “I think with my broad experience I have still got a lot to offer. I recently contacted the Recruitment and Retention Committee of the AFCA to see if I could help.

On the local front, I will be working towards a new strategic plan to identify where our emergency services need to go over the next 10 years.”

As for the Lifetime Achievement Award, Jerrold says it was nice but the most memorable part of the trip to Ottawa wasn’t the award. “It was the chance to march with 300 other fire fighters to the Fallen Firefighters Memorial—I will never forget it!” exclaims Chief Lemko.

Probably my most memorable time in the

fire department was when I got to work with my

son, Shawn (Sparky). One of his roles as a junior

was to put on the Sparky costume and represent the department at local

events.

“

“

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22 | The Responder

FIRE INDUSTRY NEWSFIRE FIGHTERS IN ACTION

A Well Organized And Effective Fire Department By Brian Stecyk

“About ten years ago, I saw a structure fire on our Piikani Reserve (formerly Peigan), and I wanted to know how I could get involved and help. I asked Fire Chief Floyd Provost what I could do and soon I was getting training and becoming a fire fighter,” says Adam Crowshoe.

For the first few years Adam was living in Calgary and he served on the fire department on weekends when he returned home. In 2009 he moved back to his home community and became a full member.

Adam recall the first day he signed on. “I wasn’t sure what to expect. I sure wasn’t expecting a call the first day but that’s what happened. A woman driving a

car on Highway 3 hit a horse and her car left the road and went down a steep hill. Fortunately we were able to provide aid and she survived. It was quite a learning experience.”

The Peigan Fire Department provides services throughout the Pikkani Reserve area and has mutual aid agreements with Pincher Creek, Fort Macleod and Cardston. The department has 21 members, two of them female.

Floyd Provost was named Fire Chief on April 1, 1988. “At the time, we didn’t have much of a fire department,” he says. “Prior to that time, public works was the responder. The Band Council of the day decided that all public works employees would be trained and be volunteer fire fighters. That has worked well and we now have employees from other departments involved. A real benefit is the group insurance program that is available to fire department members and we have great member retention.”

Fire Chief Provost is a Level II fire fighter and is dedicated to good training for every member of the department. All

Peigan fire fighter Adam Crowshoe.

Responding to a structure fire.


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members are qualified at Level 1. Training is handled in-house and is complemented by members taking courses with other area departments when they are offered.

The Peigan Fire Department is very committed to prevention. During Fire Prevention Week fire fighters spent time with several age groups of Piikani School students. The event included demonstrations of their pumper truck, firefighting gear and techniques, and a talk about the importance of having adequate up-to-date smoke alarms at home, including one in every bedroom.

“The biggest challenge we have,” says Fire Chief Provost,

“is Highway 3 and motor vehicle collisions. The road can be treacherous in winter with lots of ice and blowing snow. We used to have a lot of grass fires—in one year we responded to 75 but fortunately that is dropping with only 10 in the past year.”

The real testament to cooperation was the response to the huge grass fire that spread from Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump all the way to Fort Macleod. Fire departments from Claresholm, Granum, Fort Macleod, Peigan, Pincher Creek and Lethbridge responded. They were aided by many farmers and two Hutterite Colonies.

“It was a team effort,” says Adam Crowshoe. “Our team saved two homes. For one, a lady came running up to us as we filled a water tanker and said her house was going to burn. We immediately headed to her home and sprayed the water around her home. The fire diverted around her home. I’ll never forget the card of thanks she sent to us. She was so grateful for our assistance and it made us feel so proud and happy that we were able to help.”

That is the feeling that makes Fire Chief Provost proud and it is what keeps him and his team going. As he states, “every time we go out we made a difference to someone.”

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24 | The Responder

FIRE INDUSTRY NEWS

AFRRCS Radio Basics ALBERTA Meets The CHALLENGE

© 2015 Harris Corporation. All rights reserved.

WARNING:THIS RADIO SOUNDS BIGGER THAN IT APPEARS

Learn more at HarrisRadio.com

harris.com

What is AFRRCS?• A province wide 2-way voice radio network purchased

by the Government of Alberta, Ministry of Justice and Solicitor General (JSG) office

• Provides provincial roaming and common coverage

• It is a P25 trunked radio system

• Intended to remove technical barriers to interoperability

• The contract to build AFRRCS awarded to Harris Canada Systems Inc.

• It is a replacement for the PACS (Province of Alberta Radio Communication system) and the MDMRS (Multi-Departmental Mobile Radio System)

Who can use AFRRCS?• Available to all First Responders in the province with no

access fees

• Upon approval from the GoA, AFRRCS will be available to for some non-first responder groups such as Municipality Public Service for a negotiated fee

• Signing up to AFRRCS is voluntary

What is the P25 standard?• North American standard adopted by first responders

across the continent

• This standard allows multiple vendors to provide radios on other vendor P25 systems. This means competitive procurement of radio equipment

• User-friendly and common operation across all frequency bands, system configurations, services, and manufacturers

What is the AFRRCS Permitted radio list?• All radios used on AFRRCS must be on the Permitted List.

There are no exceptions

• All radios on Permitted List have successfully completed testing on Harris infrastructure

• This list is available by subscribing to the government s AFRRCS newsletter at:

http://www.mailoutinteractive.com/Industry/View.aspx?id=672769&q=857048790&qz=2056e3


FIRE INDUSTRY NEWS

© 2015 Harris Corporation. All rights reserved.

WARNING:THIS RADIO SOUNDS BIGGER THAN IT APPEARS

Learn more at HarrisRadio.com

harris.com

26 | The Responder26 | The Responder

FIRE INDUSTRY NEWS

What Frequency bands does AFRRCS use?• 700 Mhz

• VHF in national parks and along the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains

AFRRCS uses trunked radios. What does that mean?• In a trunked system, repeater channels are pooled into a

common group and repeaters are dynamically assigned when keyed by a radio. Radio users are not restricted to using specific channels because the system assigns the channels automatically. The radio can key any repeater in the province and the system will connect that radio to its assigned talk groups

• Conversely a conventional radio system permanently assigns the repeater to the radios. If the radio roams outside the repeater coverage area, it can no longer communicate

Will your current radio system work with AFRRCS?• Chances are your county or agency is using a legacy

radio system which uses conventional channel access in the VHF frequency band

• It is important that you contact the JSG when you are planning a migration to AFRRCS. To ensure the integrity of the AFRRCS architecture, legacy systems are not allowed to connect to the system permanently. With proper planning/project documentation gateways can be used to connect a legacy system for migration purposes. The government refers to this as “System of Systems”

Will your current radios work on AFRRCS?• Any radios on AFRRCS must be P25 standard and on

the Permitted radio list

• Legacy radios will not work on the P25 standard system

What if I have an End of Life Radio? Should I consider migrating to AFRRCS?• Yes, this is the perfect time to consider AFRRCS. It is

another option for you to consider.

What is a single band radio?• The AFRRCS system predominantly uses the 700 MHz

frequency band, which has been assigned to Public Safety agencies. In mountain parks the AFRRCS system also uses the VHF band for improved coverage (150 MHz)

• A single band radio is capable of transmitting and receiving on only one of the frequency bands. You purchase it for specific bands, VHF, UHF or 700/800 MHz

• This type of radio makes sense when the system it is connected to utilizes only one band or in the case of AFRRCS, if the radio is used only in the areas served by the 700 MHz system

What is a multiband radio? Is it for you?• Multiband band radios are capable of transmitting

on more than one band. So a Harris Unity® XG-100 multiband, for example, can transmit on VHF, UHF and 700/800 MHz in one radio. This type of radio should be considered when:

• You have a requirement to talk on AFRRCS or on a legacy system, such as public works

• You are on AFFRCS and want to talk with Mutual Aid Partners on their VHF or legacy system.

• You are looking at a cost effective entry into AFRRCS. This type of radio can be used to talk with AFRRCS and with your current legacy system.

• You want your command level to have access to AFRRCS

What should you beware of?• The P25 standard still has some non tested features

• Not all features were tested for AFRRCS

Radio features...what do they mean?• Encryption – Predominantly used by law enforcement, is

available in DES (Data Encryption standard) using 56-bit keys, or AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) that uses 128-bit keys.

• OTAR – (Over the Air Rekeying). Provides the ability to send ne encryption key to radios over the air.


FIRE INDUSTRY NEWS

• GPS – Built into many radios or available through accessories. The AFRRCS system has not yet finalized how GPS will be used on the system.

• OTAP – (Over the Air reprogramming) provided the ability to send new features or software to radios over the air.

• Text message

Are there any P-25 Cellular based options?• Yes, Harris sellls a product called BeOn®. It essentially

turns your IOS and Android cell phone into a P25 capable 2 way radio. BeOn provides many traditional radio features, some of which are; multiple talk groups, Emergency call, encryption, security and Push To Talk (PTT) capability.

• BeOn will give you access to your P25 system wherever cell coverage is provided.

• A great option for low cost access or increased geographical access.

• More information found at BeOnapp.com

What is a vehicular Repeater (VR)?• A Vehicular Repeater is specialized P25 high power

mobile radio that converts into a local repeater. In addition to performing all of Harris mobile radio functions, the VR provides network extension to

portable radios that cannot directly connect to the P25 network. This can extend the portable service area and provide added user safety. A portable that has moved out of range of the network can be connected to the Vehicular Repeater and normal call traffic can be established across the repeater to the network via the mobile radio. The VR can be used for:

• Scene of Incident communications

• Communications in poor coverage areas

Who can you talk to for more information?

• For questions about AFRRCS or just to learn more, reach out to one of your Harris representatives:

• Brain Phillips [email protected]

• Doug Cantera [email protected]

• Huntley Quinn [email protected]

• Bob Henley [email protected]

SEE MORE HARRIS RADIOS AT: WWW.HARRISRADIO.COM

28 | The Responder

FIRE INDUSTRY NEWS

As partners in carbon monoxide safety, we all know that in an enclosed

space, even a small amount of CO can lead to serious illness or death. It’s

up to us to educate the public on CO safety.

SIMPLE STEPS ALBERTANS CAN TAKE TO PREVENT CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING:

• Install and maintain a CO detector

• Have fuel-burning appliances inspected regularly by a qualified technician

• Keep vents and chimneys clear of snow, ice and debris

• Never idle a vehicle in the garage, even with the overhead door open

• Always open a window near wood-burning fireplaces

WHAT DO THESE THINGS HAVE IN COMMON?

They all can produce carbon monoxide in your home.

Keeping communities safefrom CARBON MONOXIDE

We value our partnership with the AFCA to keep Alberta families safe. For more information, and to download our CO safety checklist, visit ATCOGas.com

Cooler Temperatures Bring Increased Emphasis On Carbon Monoxide Awareness By ATCO Gas

With the temperature dropping and winter right around the corner, it’s the perfect time of year to renew efforts to educate the public on the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO). CO is a toxic gas that is both colourless and odourless, making it extremely hard to detect. Fuel -burning appliances can all produce CO and in an enclosed space, such as a home or garage, even a small amount can be lethal.

Thankfully, CO poisoning is 100 per cent preventable and there are a number of steps homeowners can take to make sure their families are protected.

“The first and most important step is to get a CO detector” said Alberta’s Acting Fire Commissioner Spence Sample. “They are inexpensive, easy to install and are the first line of defense when there’s CO in the home.”

Sample also says that it’s vital to maintain CO detectors in order to keep them working properly. Simply vacuum monthly, replace the batteries annually and write the detector’s expiry date on the outside of the device as a reminder of when to replace.

“Homeowners should also have their natural gas appliances – like furnaces, cooktops and fireplaces –inspected regularly by a qualified technician” said Bill Stephens, President of ATCO Gas. “Not only will this provide peace of mind in ensuring appliances are in good working order, but it will also make sure any issues that could lead to a CO leak are promptly detected and repaired.”

Another common source of CO in the home is vehicle exhaust, which is why a vehicle should never be left to idle in the garage – even with the overhead door open.

Lethal levels of CO can accumulate in minutes and linger for hours. It’s always best to pull vehicles out of the garage and close the door if it is necessary to leave it them running.

Other tips for preventing CO in the home are to keep the area around fuel-burning appliances clutter-free, ensure both indoor and outdoor vents are clear of snow, ice and debris, make sure the flame in natural-gas appliances burns blue and not yellow, and to always open a window when using a wood-burning fireplace.

ATCO Gas has developed a handy checklist to help keep Albertans safe from carbon monoxide (CO) this heating season. The free downloadable checklist, available at ATCOGas.com, was created to provide Albertans with an easy tool they can use in their homes to prevent and detect CO. As trusted members of the public safety community, first responders have a unique and important role to play in increasing CO awareness.

Armed with these simple tips, you can help make sure homeowners in your community are not only aware of CO’s dangers, but also able to protect themselves and their families from its harmful effects.


FIRE INDUSTRY NEWS

As partners in carbon monoxide safety, we all know that in an enclosed

space, even a small amount of CO can lead to serious illness or death. It’s

up to us to educate the public on CO safety.

SIMPLE STEPS ALBERTANS CAN TAKE TO PREVENT CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING:

• Install and maintain a CO detector

• Have fuel-burning appliances inspected regularly by a qualified technician

• Keep vents and chimneys clear of snow, ice and debris

• Never idle a vehicle in the garage, even with the overhead door open

• Always open a window near wood-burning fireplaces

WHAT DO THESE THINGS HAVE IN COMMON?

They all can produce carbon monoxide in your home.

Keeping communities safefrom CARBON MONOXIDE

We value our partnership with the AFCA to keep Alberta families safe. For more information, and to download our CO safety checklist, visit ATCOGas.com

30 | The Responder

FIRE INDUSTRY NEWS

The Road To LeadershipWith fire fighters and officers taking charge of their own career, the culture around leadership and business education in this industry is transforming.By Sonia Dhaliwal

As the demands of the fire service continue to evolve, fire fighters and officers are recognizing the need to diversify and enrich their portfolio to become effective future leaders. They are increasingly becoming progressive in seeking out business and leadership training opportunities on their own or with the guidance of their management team.

When it comes to learning, Captain Brian Hutchinson of Vancouver Fire & Rescue Services (VFRS) expresses he’s always had the desire to keep going and realizes lifelong learning is crucial in this industry. Hutchinson started his career with the BC Forest Service in his mid 20s, subsequently becoming part of the VFRS team in his early 30s. After five years of service, he began seeking out other avenues to further his education in the fire service so that he could stay sharp, learn more and take on other roles to become the best professional fire fighter possible. He continued education by completing a bachelor’s degree at the Justice Institute of British Columbia and a master’s degree at Royal Roads University. Coming out motivated and engaged, he continued with business training through the British Columbia Institute of Technology’s (BCIT) Fire Executive Management program. At the moment, Hutchinson is taking a breather from education while he ponders what to pursue next.

Changes in Job Requirements: Reflective of Today’s Responsibilities

In Canada and around the world, the fire service has done exceptionally well in reducing the number

of fires using various tactics such as education on prevention and building safety. With today’s emergency calls shifting towards the realm of first responder and technical rescue, fire fighters are required to have a broader knowledge base. As one moves up the ranks to company officer, the knowledge and skill requirements become even more diverse with the job changing to becoming more of a leadership role.

Along with thinking about operations on the ground, VFRS Fire Chief John McKearney expresses that company officers need to be thinking more strategically about

To be competitive for those positions nowadays and even

more so in the future, you’re going to have to demonstrate you have

been preparing yourself for that position outside of doing the standard fire officer program.

““


FIRE INDUSTRY NEWS

tomorrow in all aspects. This includes affordability, efficiency and performance management. Expectations of competency levels are increasing to commensurate to salary levels. VFRS has partnered with BCIT in developing a post-secondary education program that equips those aspiring to be promoted to battalion chief positions with leadership and critical thinking skills. “We keep raising the bar and as long as the bar is met, the most successful senior qualified applicant would get the position,” says McKearney.

With fire fighters and officers taking charge of their own career, the culture around leadership and business education in this industry is transforming. Members are recognizing the need to expand their knowledge base to stay competitive. Hutchinson says, “To be competitive for those positions nowadays and even more so in the future, you’re going to have to demonstrate you have been preparing yourself for that position outside of doingthe standard fire officer program.”

Moreover, an expectation of post-secondary courses or programs for exempt as well as unionized leadership positions will eventually become ingrained in the

culture. Some unions are already becoming proactive in encouraging members to seek higher education. They realize the importance of enhanced requirements and that education is essential if they want their management team to be promoted from within the local fire department.

Professional Development: Pathways for Fire fighters

Training and education in the fire service is a lifelong journey and training expectations should be clearly communicated to members throughout their careers. When asked about transparency, most departments believe they can do a better job when it comes to clearly laying out the education and work experience preferred for various non-suppression positions. Whether it is exposure to work in various units within the fire department; a program in fire sciences or leadership; or BCIT’s Fire Executive Management program, providing a general roadmap would encourage emerging leaders to seek out these opportunities for professional development. “This allows for greater effectiveness in our officers,” adds Glen Maddess, retired VFRS fire

32 | The Responder

FIRE INDUSTRY NEWS

chief. The organization benefits in the long run, having a larger pool of qualified candidates to select from when hiring for key administrative positions.

City of Surrey Fire Chief Len Garis, who is the former president of the Fire Chiefs’ Association of BC, believes in preparing fire fighters to be future leaders as soon as they walk through the door and to continue development throughout their career. “We, as an employer, need to make sure we provide an environment where they can nurture and grow. And it should be fairly rich,” he adds.

Several departments in BC are seeing the benefit in development of soft skills at the pre-officer level and are utilizing BCIT’s leadership programs and courses to fill this gap. Although BCIT offers in-house delivery of courses, many departments opt out of this option as they see value in having employees attend classes with others from various backgrounds.

Fire Chief Dan Copeland of Delta Fire & Emergency Services explains, “Fire fighters know how to be fire fighters. By taking courses with students outside the fire departments, they are able to broaden their horizons and see what is going on around them outside the fire service.” It also teaches them strategic planning, interpersonal skills and how to deal with individuals, which is important for working with different disciplines in the city, as well as with outside organizations. And lastly, it is important if they want to change the fire service and shape it to be aligned with today’s world.”

Succession planning and leadership development is continuing to be a hot topic in the fire service. When it comes to education providers, the most important factors in deciding between all the programs and organizations available tends to be quality and relevance of education as well as flexibility in delivery. A responsive and progressive approach is also highly valued. Fire department managers are not just looking for that piece of paper stating candidates have a degree. They want relevant courses and staff with strategic and critical thinking skills.

“In the past, they were trying to stick round pegs into

Fire fighters know how to be fire fighters. By taking courses with

students outside the fire departments, they are able to broaden their

horizons and see what is going on around them outside the fire service.

“

“

June 2009 FIREFightingInCanada.com 37

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square holes – we were expected to fit to the program, instead of the program fitting to us. But we’ve found that BCIT seems to customize and make it more relevant to what we are actually doing, but still within the confines of the same type of degree structures and programs” says Fire Chief Nick Delmonico of Port Coquitlam Fire & Emergency Services.

In the development of the Fire Executive Management program, BCIT worked closely with local fire departments to understand their exact needs. The program offers the option for students to complete a practicum, which allows them to determine if they fit well with the administrative work environment.

While a large number of fire fighters are pursuing this program to enhance their skills and stay competitive, many of B.C.’s fire departments are using BCIT’s fire management and leadership programs, in addition to fire officer training, to equip their staff with the tools necessary for tomorrow.

Answers to inside front cover page.

1. Valemount, BC 2. Jasper, AB 3. Beaver Mines, AB 4. Grande Prairie, AB 5. Ponoka, AB 6. Lundbreck, AB 7. Wembley, AB 8. Bamfield, BC 9. Beaverlodge, AB10. Hythe, AB11. La Glace, AB12. St. Walburg, Sask.13. Picture Butte, AB14. Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, AB15. Elk Point, AB16. Bonnyville, AB17. Sexsmith, AB18. Fort Saskatchewan, AB19. Parkland County, AB20. Deline, NWT21. Fox Creek, AB22. Valleyview, AB23. DeBolt, AB24. Vauxhall, AB25. Taber, AB

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34 | The Responder

By Brian Stecyk

Thanks to the generosity of the Hawkeye Marine Group, Fire Chief Dan Lemieux of Grande Prairie and his wife Cheryl McCarty, had a wonderful ocean fishing trip at Bamfield, B.C.

“The fishing was spectacular,” says Dan. “On the first day of fishing we caught a good size spring salmon along with a number of black bass. On the second day we filled our quota for both salmon and bass.”

“We also came home with a number of crabs. Our guide Bruce Pow and host Ron McDowell made sure all our needs were me. Accommodations were very clean and comfortable,” adds Dan.

It all began at the AFCA golf tournament in 2014, when Dan entered a draw for the all-expense paid trip

to Bamfield on Vancouver Island. His entry was selected from approximately 1,000 entries from over a dozen golf tournaments.

Jack Purdy, owner of Hawkeye Marine Group says, “We owe a lot to first responders. Providing this kind of trip is a small way of recognizing the contribution that all fire fighters make for all of us.”

Remember!A Fishing Trip To

The fishing was spectacular. On the first day of fishing we

caught a good size spring salmon along with a number of black bass. On the second day we filled our quota for

both salmon and bass.

“

“

Dan with his first catch—a beautiful Spring Salmon.

HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE



Dan with his wife, Cheryl McCarty enjoying the fishing experience.

Dan’s exceptional guide—Bruce Pow.

Day 2—Two salmon, three black bass and three crab.

It wasn’t just fishing. Dan and

Cheryl enjoyed the wildlife—sea lions, countless whales, and even a black

bear on the beach.

36 | The Responder


Southwestern Alberta’s Historical MarvelBy Brian Stecyk

A visit to southwestern Alberta, it would not be complete without a trip to the Kootenai Brown Pioneer Village in Pincher Creek. The village is a collection of amazing buildings and artifacts that will enthrall you as you relive life from the 1800 to the mid 1900s.

There are over two dozen heritage buildings and two museum buildings. There are thousands of artifacts and great displays that will amaze you. Recent visitors, Dave and Noreen Stecyk, of Stony Plain commented, “We thought we would spend an hour at the Kootenai Brown Pioneer Village but there was so much to see we just had to stay longer. We could have stayed a whole day. It was one of the most interesting museums we have ever been to.”

“Irish born John George “Kootenai” Brown was a colourful character closely connected with the development of nearby Waterton Lakes National Park. Commissioned into the British Army where he saw action during the Indian Mutiny of 1857, Brown sought his fortune in the new world by participating in the Caribou and Wild Horse Creek gold rushes of the British Columbia interior. Later south in American territory, this adventurer served both as a Pony Express Rider and a U.S. Army Dispatcher Rider. Conflicts with the First Nations were commonplace: attacked and injured with a flying arrow by the Blackfoot, Brown was captured by Chief Sitting Bull only a few years before the infamous Battle of Little Bighorn. Fate first brought Brown to his beloved Waterton Lakes in 1865 when he crossed the South Kootenay Pass and rode down Pass Creek to



Southwestern Alberta’s Historical MarvelBy Brian Stecyk

those picturesque lakes. Ever impressed with the beauty of the area, he vowed to return, a promise to himself which he kept a dozen years later. Settling in a series of rustic mountain cabins, of which one now is a flagship of the Kootenai Brown Pioneer Village, Brown and his first wife, the Métis Olivia, homesteaded and ranched in addition to hunting, trapping and trading with the natives in the backcountry. This tradition continued when Kootenai married Isabella, a member of the Cree First Nations, following Olivia’s passing.

Ever concerned with preserving the natural beauty of these local mountains, Kootenai Brown was appointed Warden when the Kootenay Forest Reserve was created in 1895 by the Dominion Government, a position he

38 | The Responder


The Walrond Ranch house, compete with its round kitchen table (seated 14) shows how ranch life really was. There is the Fishburn School, the Northwest Mounted Police office and living quarters and the Father Lacombe Hermitage (1885). Enjoy the general store, doctor’s office, barber

The fishing was spectacular. On the first day of fishing we

caught a good size spring salmon along with a number of black bass. On the second day we filled our quota for

both salmon and bass.

“

“

retained some 16 years later when the area was elevated to Park status. Even as a senior citizen, the active Brown patrolled the mountain valleys and passes both summer and winter, conducting wildlife and fisheries counts, being an early promoter of Oil City and establishing the physical foundations of the Park.

The historical legacy of Kootenai Brown was that his eager frontier spirit became embodied in many of his pioneer peers who came early to the Pincher Creek area. Thus, the naming of the Kootenai Brown Pioneer Village continues that legacy.” (Excerpt from Kootenai Brown Pioneer Village brochure)

Remarkably the people in the Pincher Creek area donated artifacts and many of the buildings in the Village came from neighbouring ranches and farms. The actual Kootenai Brown cabin (1883) has been preserved and is a focal point of the Village.



shop, blacksmith shop, and the public bath house. Stroll down main street and enter every door to be delighted by displays and countless antiques and memorabilia of the past. There is the Verigin Barn which reflects the Doukhobor culture of the areas. The Mennonite tradition of the 1920s comes to live in the rustic Gietz house.

For the fire fighter there is the hose and ladder truck which was pulled by six men. It must have been quite a struggle to pull it up the steep hills within Pincher Creek. If you like old cars there are a few—a fully restored 1929 Whippet and several others.

Don’t miss it next time you are near Pincher Creek. Located right in town, the Kootenai Brown Pioneer Village is worth the trip.

Clockwise from left: The Walrond’s kitchen table seated 14. What do you think was in the jug? Many older visitors will recall the gravity gasoline pumps like this one. The Cyr House is full or antiques. The well-appointed Ward cabin was a comfortable home. From carriages to old automobiles, you can see it all at the Kootenai Brown Village.

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40 | The Responder

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The Responder - Alberta Fire Chiefs Association

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Transcript of The Responder - Alberta Fire Chiefs Association