Department Contributes Funding to Firefighters School

The Labour Department has contributed $190,000 to the Nova Scotia Firefighters School to assist with the training of firefighters from across the province.

"Firefighters provide an essential service to all Nova Scotians and the training they receive at the school enhances the level of that service," said Labour Minister Russell MacKinnon. "The school has a fine reputation and has a positive impact on firefighters and fire safety throughout the province. We are pleased to support the schools in its efforts."

The Nova Scotia Firefighters School, in Waverley, Halifax Co., offers practical training and education to volunteer and paid firefighters in Nova Scotia. The school also provides some training in the field.

"The annual funding from the Department of Labour is crucial for our operations," said Carl Shaw, chairman of the school. "It helps us keep the cost of training affordable for volunteer firefighters, who spend a great deal of time raising money for operations and training. We thank the government for supporting us in our efforts to enhance fire safety and training in Nova Scotia."

The school has been in operation for 31 years. Since its records were computerized in 1977, more than 30,000 students have been trained. That was the year in which the school introduced live-fire training mockups so students can experience the effects of working in a smoke-and fire-filled environment. Its live-fire building is the only one of its kind east of Montreal.

In 1997, 2,669 firefighters benefited from the school and its outreach program. Another 348 students participated in industrial workshops.

The school promotes the standards of the National Fire Protection Association, teaching students how to handle hazardous materials, detect fires and operate equipment such as the Jaws of Life.

"Despite all efforts to prevent them, fires do happen and it's best to be prepared for them," said Mr. MacKinnon. "The practical training provided at the school will save lives, reduce fire losses and increase fire safety for firefighters and all Nova Scotians."

The Nova Scotia Firefighters School is owned and operated by the provincial volunteer fire service. Tuition fees and facility rentals provide half of the annual budget. Provincial government grants and donations of materials and equipment cover an additional 40 per cent, with the remainder made up through fund-raising, municipal grants and dues from association memberships.

The Office of the Fire Marshal, a division of the Department of Labour, is actively involved in the fire school. The office works with local fire departments to improve fire safety in the province by inspecting buildings, investigating fires, and promoting fire safety and prevention initiatives.