Gone now are the farms and rural settings Colwood was once known for.
In its place are more homes, businesses and much denser neighbourhoods, but one thing that hasn’t changed, said Lt. Bryan Erwin, is the commitment of the Colwood Fire Department to the community. That he said, is something to celebrate.
“Seventy years of service by our department indicates the dedication of the men and women that have devoted their time, energy, and enthusiasm to the service of their neighbours,” Erwin said. “It is the members of the department, both past and present, that we proudly acknowledge to have made this achievement possible.”
To celebrate seven decades, Colwood Fire Rescue hosts an open house this Sunday (June 12). The entire family can meet local firefighters and Sparky the fire dog, ride in a fire truck, and try their hand at using a fire hose or fire extinguisher, among other interactive equipment displays and demonstrations.
The firefighters’ museum nearby will also be open to the public. For hungry visitors, hot dogs will be on sale by donation, in support of the Colwood Volunteer Firefighters’ Scholarship Fund.
“We encourage all who can attend to come out and join us at our open house. This is the time that we can proudly display our equipment, the services that we provide to the community and meet (the public),” Erwin said.
The department, much like those in other communities around British Columbia, relies heavily on volunteerism to provide the quick, efficient and effective service to Colwood. Despite the passage of time, he said, that is still something in which the entire team takes pride.
“Our members have (been) proud to stand in and help their neighbours or strangers when they are needed. Our walls are scattered with pictures that span several generations of families that have given their time and energy to keep the community safe,” Erwin said. “It is this kind of dedication and commitment that makes our organization proud to say that even though some things may have changed … such as once being an Air Raid Protection Unit, then a Fire Protection District, and finally the Colwood Fire Department … our members have been here to help when called on by our community.”
The open house happens from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and all ages are welcome.
alim@goldstreamgazette.com