Fort St. John Fire Department celebrating 75 years

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. – The City of Fort St. John Fire Department is celebrating 75 years in 2017.

The organization was founded in 1942 after two children lost their lives in a tragic fire. The residents of the area decided that help should be available.

“Bert Bowes and Bradan Herron owned a gas station/ repair shop on the main east-west road going through the village. A used vehicle was out-fitted with buckets, spades and other tools that may be used to extinguish a fire. This vehicle would be kept in the Bowes & Herron shop.

At the northwest corner of the main cross road, a cistern was installed and the town’s waterman would fill it as needed. At the same corner, a post with a bell was installed and they built a small building to store hose. Almost all the businesses had a person to answer the call when the bell was rang.”

Fire Chief Fred Burrows told Fort St. John Staff and Council that while doing some cleaning and looking at memorabilia in the Spring, it was brought to their attention that this year is the 75th anniversary.

The Fire Department is planning to host a celebration and Open House on September 9th and 10th.

On September 9th, the department would like to have an Anniversary celebration for current and past department staff including career and auxiliary members, senior city staff, local dignitaries, Council and Council invitees.

On September 10th, the fire department would like to host a Public Open House with a Pancake Breakfast in the morning and a Hot Dog BBQ in the afternoon.

The City said they will contribute $2,000 from their contingency fund. The Fire Department originally asked for $6,000 for the celebrations. The remaining $4,000 will come from other sources.