Pressure’s on

Every so often life presents an opportunity that can change your future course, and to the four new additions to Sun Peaks Fire Rescue (SPFR) that’s exactly what the Work Experience Program (WEP) is.
With only three WEPs offered in B.C., and hundreds of applicants, it’s no surprise that each of the four candidates are enthusiastic and eager to take advantage of everything this exclusive program has to offer.

This year’s candidates include Allen Lu, Rob Dhillon, Natasha Rostom and Gord McKay. Each of them are certified 1001 firefighters who are looking to get an edge on other applicants for career positions in fire halls.

Captain Colin Cannon of SPFR suggested I experience a small taste of what the program entails before writing about it, which meant suiting up and getting in the middle of the action.

As you can see from the picture above they didn’t leave me stranded to handle the hoses on my lonesome. Each WEP candidate took the time to coach me on how to properly handle the hose and each insisted on the importance of my being comfortable during the process. I’m sure they all had a little snicker as I amateurishly waved the hose around spraying myself and the others — including Captain Cannon, who wasn’t suited up or prepared to be sprayed.

Needless to say I had a great time experiencing something I had never before and never imagined I would. But to these candidates this is their life goal, and a priceless opportunity for them to keep current on the firefighting skills.