The Lake Okareka Fire Force members have been busy over the winter period attending a number of training courses covering the fire environment, fire behaviour, crew leader skills and responsibilities, and fire safety.
Further training courses taking place over the next few months include First Aid, working with helicopters, refresher training for current members and induction for new recruits.
We are also planning to conduct training in the defensive control of structures and vehicles. It would be handy if there was anyone in the local area or someone you know who has a structure that could be used to assist us with this type of training.
We are currently seeking to increase our membership due to a number of members being away at university during the year and the departure of Thomas Kjaer who has returned to Denmark following completion of his internship in New Zealand.
Now that we have a reliable fire appliance, owned by the community, this will be made available to assist with local community events including pre-school fundraisers and certain private events.
On another note, please don’t forget to check your smoke detectors and change the batteries when Daylight Savings starts.
For anyone wanting to contact the Fire Force, please phone me on 362 8874 or go to our website: www.okarekaruralfire.com.
Phil Muldoon
Chief Fire Officer