Jackie Taylor (L) and Patsy Taylor (R) wearing the new SCBA’s funded by the IGA.
The St. Barbe Volunteer Fire Department serves four communities including St. Barbe, Forresters Point, Black Duck Cove, and Pigeon Cove on the Great Northern Peninsula. Beyond firefighting, the department responds to vehicle accidents, provides life-saving emergency services, and contributes to the community in various ways.
In addition to their emergency response duties, the department is involved in the overall well-being of the community. Firefighters volunteer their time to assist with traffic control for weddings, funerals and any other events that may occur in the area.
However, the dangers these dedicated volunteers face extend beyond fire hazards. Exposure to cancer-causing chemicals in smoke, and other harmful chemicals is a huge risk. To address this, the department requested funding from the IGA for two self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBAs) to protect its firefighters from inhaling harmful chemicals. These SCBAs will not only help keep volunteers safe but will allow them to perform lifesaving rescues in these hazardous environments.
With this funding, the fire department will be able to make significant strides in improving the safety of its volunteers, who are already risking their lives to protect the community. The International Grenfell Association is proud to have supported this dedicated team of volunteers, who continue to make lasting impacts on the residents of this region’s communities.
