Owens Leaves Fire Rescue

Written by Peter McIntyre Wednesday, 28 July 2010 17:03107.5 KISSFM

Vernon Fire Rescue has lost one of its deputy fire chiefs. Rick Owens has called it a career after nine years in Vernon and 35 in fire fighting which started in Terrace BC. He is being congratulated for his long career and contributions by Mayor Wayne Lippert and fire chief Jeff Carlisle. His departure was announced a day after 39 year firefighter Paul Pshyk retired. Fire chief Carlisle (pictured) says he hopes to have a new deputy in place within two months, meaning some fill-in duties until then. "Between Deputy chief Skolrood and myself, we will try to balance the work from that position until we have the new deputy chief. It will be a busy time but I know we can get through it." Carlisle says the captain's position formerly held by Pshyk will be filled by promotion in September when his retirement is official. "There will be a promotion from within the ranks of the career firefighters. It's whoever senior on the list right now -- which I believe is Wayne Little--will be promoted to captain."