New model proceeds

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: February 06, 2013 1:00 AM
The City of Vernon hasn’t wasted any time with its new firefighting structure. On the weekend, former Okanagan Landing volunteers were part of a training exercise  with Vernon Volunteer Firefighters Association members. “It’s been good for the guys to train with the VVFA guys,” said chief Keith Green. “It was well received by everyone.” On Feb. 1, the city shifted to a single command structure for the Vernon and Landing fire halls. Previously, the Landing hall operated independently under a contract with the Okanagan Landing Volunteer Firefighters Association. Last year, city council decided not to renew the contract and 13 of the 26 Landing volunteers have joined the VVFA.  The remainder of the firefighters have retired. Beyond training, schedules are being worked out, including for maintenance of equipment at the Landing hall. During an emergency, a mix of former Landing volunteers and existing VVFA members will respond out of that facility. “We are looking to the former Landing members to be leaders because they are familiar with the facility. We are embarking on a new model and everyone is happy.”