Saskatchewan Volunteer Firefighters Association

GREETINGS FROM THE PRESIDENT’S DESK 

2009 is in the books and we say hello to not only a new year but a new decade. 2010 should bring a new look at the way the fire service does business in Saskatchewan starting with a new communication radio system as we bid farewell to Fleet net. We also look forward to a new Fire Prevention Act, which will be called the Fire Safety Act. We are anticipating with any luck, the Act will be accepted in the spring sitting of the legislature. 

Our next journey is to Nipawin in the spring of 2010 so watch for exact dates and training course to be offered in a future newsletter as well as our web site www.svffa.ca 

We have been getting many requests for regional training and this is great news to see the amalgamation of fire departments taking advantage of affordable training. This also helps in getting to know your neighbour and learning how to work together to enhance the fire service within your region. 

This is a friendly reminder to check out the available scholarships for your junior firefighters. We encourage all fire departments to take advantage of this chance to fill your rosters and the opportunities for junior fire fighters to not only have a chance at some bursary money but also an opportunity to become a fire fighter whether it is a volunteer or career. 

We also offer the Jack Croteau Memorial Scholarship that is worth $500.00 to the lucky recipient.  Check out our web site www.svffa.ca or call Ken Dobra at 697-2627 for the required criteria to applying for this scholarship and don’t miss out. 

Now for an important issue that I hope all fire departments check into with your municipalities. Ensure that municipalities carry adequate insurance for their volunteer fire fighters in the event of on the job injury. Ensure that it will sustain you during the period that you are unable to work. It has been brought to our attention that many fire fighters may not have insurance coverage or inadequate coverage in the event that they get injured while fighting a fire. Self employed fire fighters or those that are farmers likely are not eligible for Workers Compensation as they may not pay premiums for coverage. The municipal insurance in many cases is minimal and the minimum coverage only pays $50.00 per week for the 1st 4 weeks that you are off and $25.00 per week for every week after the 4 weeks. This coverage is not enough in the event that you will be off for extended periods of time. Most municipalities do have insurance coverage for their volunteer fire fighters but many do not know what the coverage covers or the amount of the payout. I hope that you check it out before it is too late. 

I hope you all have a great winter, check your smoke alarms, continue training and we will see you at Nipawin. 

Dale Wagner

President, Saskatchewan Volunteer Fire Fighters Association

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Last modified: 01/03/10