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Fire hall to be expanded

Jessica Gray
Northern News Services

Fort Simpson (Oct 27/06) - A major extension to the Fort Simpson fire hall is a go, said Fire Chief Pat Rowe.

The extension will effectively double the size of the hall, which currently has two double bays.

"It about being proactive," said Rowe.

NNSL Photo/graphic

The Fort Simpson volunteer fire department is set to get an extension to its building, effectively doubling the fire hall. - Jessica Gray/NNSL photo

By doubling the size of the hall now, the department won't have to worry about space in the near future, said Rowe.

Tom Matus, senior administrative officer for the village council, said he expects the report for the hall expansion project to be submitted next month.

"We'll get the geo-technical report in by the first week of November," said Matus.

The extension to the hall is to be built on the property the department owns behind the building.

The volunteer fire department's need for more space has been a contentious issue - dividing the department and the village council.

The troubles between the two resulted in the territorial government disbanding the council earlier in the year.

But Rowe said those days are behind them as the new council - almost all of whom are returning to serve again along with two new councillors - have shown they are ready to work with the department.

Rowe said the department is also looking to get some new equipment.

The firefighters are requesting a new pump truck, replacing an outdated model, and a new equipment truck, also to replace the one the department currently uses.

Rowe said other equipment the department might look into getting includes a highway rescue unit - a vehicle designated to carry the heavy hydraulics needed to respond to car or truck crashes.

Also of interest would be snow machines - to get to remote areas or be used on ice and a new ambulance and boats to assist with water rescues. This equipment will help the department respond to any problem that may come up as the village and Deh Cho region grows.

"This place is going to need protective services in place. It's what Fort Simpson deserves," said the fire chief.

The department responds to around 250 calls a year, mainly in Fort Simpson and is looking for volunteers.

Rowe said the department provides all necessary training.