Heroes in the Community Celebrated

Heroes in communities across Nova Scotia are being honored today, Oct. 8, by Premier Darrell Dexter as he declares it Volunteer Fire Service Recognition Day.

"All Nova Scotians owe a debt of gratitude to these brave men and women who voluntarily put themselves at risk to keep residents and communities safe every day," said Premier Dexter. "On behalf of the province, I would like to thank our volunteer members for their hard work and dedication, and I encourage all Nova Scotians to show their appreciation for their fire service on this day, and all year long."

There are nearly 7,000 volunteer firefighters working in 320 fire stations across the province.

"The service that these men and women are providing is invaluable," said Marilyn More, Minister of Labour and Workforce Development and Volunteerism. "We will continue to work with our partners to support them as they set a shining example we should all celebrate."

Recently, the province worked with fire service providers to develop a recruitment and retention resource. This tool will help fire departments continue to protect their communities.

"The fire service in Canada would not exist today without our volunteers," said Andy Yarrow, Pugwash fire chief and president of the Fire Service Association of Nova Scotia Volunteers.

"They devote a tremendous number of hours every year in training and responding to emergency situations, regardless of the time of day or night."

Fire Prevention Week runs until Sunday, Oct. 10.