Calgary Fire Department welcomes new firefighters
Today, 36 new probationary firefighters were presented with hat badges alongside two of the department’s canine members – Honey and Gibbs to officially join the ranks of the Calgary Fire Department (CFD).
“You are joining a department with a long and proud history as a fire service leader,” said Calgary Fire Chief Bruce Burrell at this afternoon’s graduation ceremony. “For the past 128 years, the Calgary Fire Department has skillfully and passionately served our citizens, providing them with a sense of safety, security and protection which they value and appreciate.”
Recruit training includes vehicle extrication, hose and ladder exercises, class room lectures and medical assist practice at CFD’s Fire Training Academy in the city’s southeast. Honey and Gibbs, two black Labrador retrievers, completed their accelerant detection canine training in Maine, USA, in May 2012 and September 2013, respectively. By completing advanced scent discrimination training and scenario practice they have earned an honoured place as members of the fire investigations team.
“In addition to our new recruits, we are also proud to acknowledge the skills and successful training of our canine members,” said Chief Burrell. “I am very proud of all of our new members who are welcomed into the CFD family.”
Deputy Mayor Sean Chu was on hand to welcome the probationary firefighters to the City of Calgary. This class of graduates will be probationary for nine more months, as they complete training as active firefighters. The Calgary Fire Department now has more than 1,400 firefighters and two accelerant detection canines serving the fire safety needs of Calgarians.
CFD will be opening up its intake for new recruits starting December 10, 2013. Please visit www.calgary.ca/fire to learn more about a firefighting career.
The Calgary Fire Department is committed to creating a sustainable fire service through the ongoing development of programs, people and places to meet the fire safety needs of Calgarians.