South Frontenac Bolsters Its Fire Service - Welcomes 24 new Fire Fighters

Dec 04, 2019

South Frontenac Fire & Rescue Station 6 welcomed a full house last Wednesday night at the 2019 Volunteer Fire Fighter Recruit Graduation Ceremony. Dozens of fire personnel, Councillors, staff, and family members gathered to celebrate the achievements of 24 new firefighters that can now respond to fires and emergencies in South Frontenac after having completed 6 months of extensive training.

Mayor Ron Vandewal addressed the graduating class with his well wishes for their future careers and thanked their families for their continuous support at home.

“I also want to thank Council for their ongoing support of the fire service and the steps that have been taken to position South Frontenac Fire & Rescue to continue providing exemplary service to our growing municipality. I am grateful for each and every member of SFFR for dedicating their lives to protection of life and property in South Frontenac,” said Mayor Vandewal.

The recruitment of a significant number of new volunteer fire fighters is part of Fire Chief Darcy Knott’s multi-year plan to bolster and modernize SFFR to ensure it can continue to provide excellent service to a region that is experiencing significant growth pressure.

“The men and women sitting before you are the cream of the crop, “noted Director of Fire & Emergency Services Darcy Knott. “They have received the same level of training as a fulltime fire fighter in any city across North America, and now hold certifications that are internationally recognized.”

Chief Knott explained that this year’s recruitment campaign was one of the most involved and most successful in South Frontenac’s history, ensuring that our eight stations spread out across the township remain equipped for any emergency that faces the residents of South Frontenac.

“I am continually amazed by the dedication, commitment, and professionalism of the volunteer firefighters of South Frontenac Fire and Rescue,” added Chief Knott.

“This graduating group of new firefighters share those same qualities and have already exhibited great comradery throughout this process. I congratulate them on this achievement and welcome them to the SFFR family!”

About South Frontenac Fire & Rescue: SFFR is a hybrid force with 110 volunteer fire fighters. With 8 fire stations located throughout the township, and 36 apparatus, SFFR volunteer fire fighters help to protect 18,646 residents and over 941 sq. km. of beautiful landscape. These individuals spend their time responding to calls relating to fires, medical emergencies, and various other situations that require their assistance.