Meet Severn's Volunteer Firefighters

What inspired you to join Severn Fire and Emergency Services, and what has kept you involved?

I joined Severn Fire because I always had an interest in the fire service. Growing up I knew I wanted to be a firefighter. Moving to the area it gave me a great opportunity to meet new people and get involved in the community. The adrenaline rush you get from each call is what keeps me involved. As well as the people I’ve met along the way, both former and present, forming bonds that will last a lifetime. 

What would surprise people most about being a Volunteer Firefighter in Severn? 

I’m surprised with how many courses the Township of Severn has offered me for continuing my growth, both personally and as a firefighter. I came into the position with no certifications, just a positive attitude and being willing to learn. I have achieved my Fire 1 and 2, Hazmat operations, pump ops, and now working on leadership courses with the Fire Officer 1 course. 

What would you say to someone who is thinking about applying, but is not sure they are ready?

If you have interest in the fire service, want to get involved in the community, and have the time to commit, this job may be for you. This position will push you both mentally and physically, but is the most rewarding thing I have done. There is no shame in realizing this isn’t for you, its better than never trying at all, and having regrets. 

What inspired you to join Severn Fire and Emergency Services, and what has kept you involved?

I have always had a strong desire to help out my community, to be able to make the worst day of someone's life a little bit easier. The possibility to help save a life, a home, or a families' prized possessions has been a calling for me to serve with Severn Fire. I would have to say that the selflessness and camaraderie of my Severn Fire family is one the main reason I have stayed involved. Our Chief, R. Lowell, is continuously updating our equipment, procedures, and looking out for the safety of "US" the firefighters.

What would surprise people most about being a Volunteer Firefighter in Severn?

I think the vast amount of professional training and knowledge that you acquire from becoming a Volunteer Firefighter in Severn is what would surprise people the most. Today, Volunteer Firefighters must meet the same qualifications as full-time career Firefighters. Every time we go on a call, the circumstances are different. We must remind vigilant and be able adapt to situation as it presents itself. I would also have to say that the large amount of support and appreciation that we receive from the community is also a pleasant surprise. There is a sense of pride that comes with job!

What would you say to someone who is thinking about applying, but is not sure they are ready?

I would encourage them to reach out to other firefighters and discuss the opportunity. Make an arrangement to stop by a firehall, take a tour, and get a chance to see and feel the tools/equipment we work with. Definitely, I would motivate them to attended the information sessions, which will provide them with more information, the ability to meet some of the firefighters, and to ask any questions which they might have. 

What inspired you to join Severn Fire and Emergency Services, and what has kept you involved?

The initial inspiration for joining the fire service in general had to have come from my Dad being a member of Toronto Fire for 32 years. Growing up hearing the stories, and spending time with the guys at the station left a positive and lasting impact on me. I found the atmosphere of bravery, comradery, and service to others to be very alluring, and something I’d like to be a part of myself. Much of what brought me to volunteer with Severn in the first place was the desire to gain valuable experience that would translate to getting hired onto a full time department later-on. Though that has definitely been the case, I have found that the friendships formed with my fellow firefighters, and the satisfaction of making a difference in the community is overwhelmingly what has kept me involved.

What would surprise people most about being a Volunteer Firefighter in Severn?

I think that what would surprise people the most about being a Volunteer in Severn is the sense of teamwork and unity that is built together. Everyone has their own unique skillsets and abilities that they can bring to the table, and it's a special thing to see them all come together to accomplish a common goal.

What would you say to someone who is thinking about applying, but is not sure they are ready?

It's perfectly normal to have some reservations about whether or not you are ready to join. I had many myself when I was going through the process. From my experience, the feeling of readiness is something that will grow over time. As long as you are enthusiastic to learn, and receptive to feedback, people will be more than happy to work with you on the areas you’d like to build confidence in. You'll never know until you give it a try!