Fort Smith (May 02/05) - The Fort Smith Volunteer Fire Department has a new member - the fire chief's son.

Tom Linaker, an 18-year-old, Grade 12 student, joined about three months ago.

His father, Darren Linaker, has been a member of the department for 15 years.

Tom says he always thought about becoming a firefighter.

"I joined because it's a good group of people and something to do," he adds.

Tom noted he is still a firefighter in training.

"I'm still learning the ropes," he said.

Darren, 44, recalls his son grew up around the Fort Smith Fire Hall.

"I think it's great for young people to be involved in volunteer firefighting," the fire chief says. "I'm really proud that Tom joined."

Tom is also carrying on a family tradition, Darren notes. "His grandpa is still on the Millett (Alta.) fire department, and he's 70. So Tom's a third-generation volunteer firefighter."

Darren's father has been a volunteer firefighter since the late 1950s and now drives a fire department water truck.

The fire chief says it was all Tom's decision to join the Fort Smith department. "It's a big decision a person has to make."

Darren recognizes there are hazards involved in the job, but adds, "It's a good way to learn skills and to give back to your community."