Metchosin Fire Department is using an online platform to fund sending three firefighters to Peru.
“We are open to suggestions, we realize everyone is asking for money,” said Capt. Jason Humphries. “It’s a feel-good thing to help make a change in the world.”
The department is seeking $3,500 to cover the airfare for the Firefighters Without Borders project.
The program is in April and with short notice, after the approval and paperwork was complete, the department is asking for help from the community.
Some accommodation and food is provided and the firefighters will cover additional transportation costs and expenses.
Fire Chief Stephanie Dunlop went to Peru last year and explained the rules and regulations from groups including Work Safe B.C. are set in place to keep firefighters safe in Canada.
“(In Peru) it’s chaos with no rules or regulations. Our thing is safety and we want to teach them a safer way to get the job done,” she said.
They travelled to 25 departments and helped train about 1,000 people.
“Last year we all paid 100 per cent of our way,” said Dunlop adding if the fire department can raise the funds for airfare, other firefighters could afford the experience.
While helping others in the developing country, Humphries said any firefighter who volunteers on the trip will return with more confidence and knowledge that can be used back at home serving the community.
For more information on the program or to share ideas on fundraising email firechief@metchosinfire.ca.
To donate directly do to www.indiegogo.com and type “Metchosin” in the search box.
http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/metchosin-ff-s-to-peru