Saskatoon Fire Department welcomes 15 new recruits

Fire Chief Morgan Hackl and other fire officials will welcome the newest group of firefighter-paramedics to the Saskatoon Fire Department (SFD) at a private graduation ceremony this afternoon. The ceremony will recognize the successful completion of comprehensive training programs where 15 recruits will be presented with their badges and battalion assignments.

All 15 firefighter-paramedics have completed basic training in firefighting, technical rescue, hazardous material mitigation and fire inspections. They are also certified to the level of Primary Care Paramedic (PCP) and are licensed through the Saskatchewan College of Paramedics. Their training and experience have prepared them for operating effectively on high-hazard emergency scenes.    

"We hold a high standard of training at SFD. Our team of Fire Service Instructors has worked with these recruits over the past four weeks to review their firefighter and paramedic skills, and educate them on how they will apply these in their new role at the SFD,” says Anthony Tataryn, Assistant Chief of Staff Development and Safety. “Our fire department strives to be a leader in training as we recognize the vital importance that it plays in the safety of both our staff and residents.”

EMS incidents make up over 40 percent of SFD's response, making the recruits’ PCP certification a valuable asset to the fire service.

"When we seek new recruits, we look for individuals who will contribute to the overall success of our team," says Chief Hackl. "With the growing number of EMS calls in our city, it's important for our crews to be equipped with paramedic training. Having the added PCP certification means our firefighters can effectively respond to EMS incidents that occur in high-hazard situations.”

These firefighter-paramedics demonstrate the Saskatoon Fire Department’s commitment towards enhanced front-line emergency care and the investment that City Council continues to make in emergency services.

Chief Hackl adds, “We commend the hard work each recruit has put forward to reach this milestone and we’re thrilled to welcome these 15 individuals to the Saskatoon Fire Department.”

The new firefighter-paramedics will start their first shifts beginning Monday, July 25.