Welcome to the Shawville-Clarendon Fire Department. Our department is a cornerstone of public safety, providing indispensable services to the community with unwavering dedication and professionalism. With a team of highly trained volunteer firefighters, we are committed to safeguarding the lives, property, and well-being of approximately 4,000 residents across an expansive area. This page is designed to offer a comprehensive overview of our department’s operations, the extensive training of our personnel, and our multifaceted role within the community.
The Shawville-Clarendon Fire Department exemplifies excellence in emergency response and proactive community engagement. Our operational framework integrates advanced training, state-of-the-art equipment, and strategic planning, ensuring an effective response to a diverse range of emergency scenarios. Additionally, we place a strong emphasis on community involvement and public education, reinforcing our commitment to not only respond to emergencies but also to prevent them. Through these efforts, we strive to uphold the highest standards of safety and service for our community.
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About the Department
The Shawville-Clarendon Fire Department, staffed by a committed team of 28 volunteer firefighters, is a cornerstone of public safety for the community. These volunteers are dedicated to protecting the lives and properties of approximately 4,000 residents spread over a vast area of 140 square miles. The department, known for its efficiency and readiness, handles a diverse range of emergencies, ensuring the safety of a primarily rural populace.
Emergency Response Capabilities: Trained to respond to a multitude of emergency scenarios, the department is dispatched by the 9-1-1 emergency call center. Their range of response includes managing grass, bush, barn, and house fires. In addition, they are equipped to handle vehicular accidents, expertly utilizing tools like the Jaws of Life for extrication purposes. The firefighters also collaborate closely with paramedics, providing essential support during medical emergencies, and work alongside the Sûreté du Québec in various situations to ensure comprehensive emergency coverage.
Training of Volunteer Firefighters
Rigorous Training Program: Each firefighter undergoes an intensive training program mandated by the Province of Quebec. This program involves 300 hours of training, encompassing both theoretical and practical aspects of firefighting. The curriculum includes fire behaviour understanding, use of firefighting equipment, emergency medical response, and specialized rescue techniques. This thorough training ensures that each volunteer is fully prepared to face different types of emergencies, prioritizing the safety and well-being of Shawville’s residents.
Ongoing Education and Development: Beyond the initial training, our firefighters engage in continuous learning and skill development. This includes regular drills, attending workshops, and staying updated with the latest firefighting techniques and safety protocols. The department’s commitment to ongoing education ensures that our team is always ready to respond effectively to any emergency.
Fire Station and Community Engagement
Fire Station: Our fire station, located on Center Street, is a modern facility that was rebuilt and officially reopened on March 25, 2000. The construction of the station was a community effort, with many hours of work contributed by the volunteers and the volunteer firefighters. It also serves as a memorial to the late Fire Chief Bill Black, honouring his dedication and service. The station is equipped with the necessary apparatus and equipment to protect a primarily rural area, and serves as the hub for our firefighting operations.
Community Involvement: The Shawville-Clarendon Fire Department is deeply involved in the community, with a strong focus on fire safety education and community events. We conduct Fire Safety for Schools programs, teaching children about fire prevention and safety. Our team also plays a significant role in the organization and execution of Canada Day celebrations, including the parade and fireworks display, demonstrating our commitment to community engagement and spirit.
Contact Information and Participation
Fire Chief: The department is led by Fire Chief Lee Laframboise, a seasoned professional committed to the safety and training of the volunteer team. For inquiries about the fire department, fire safety, or information on becoming a volunteer firefighter, please contact Chief Laframboise at 819-647-3837 or 819-744-1961, or email at scfd@shawville.ca
Becoming a Volunteer Firefighter and Regulations: If you are interested in serving your community as a volunteer firefighter or need information on fire safety regulations, such as burning permits, please contact the Town Hall at info@shawville.ca or call 819-647-2979. We offer comprehensive guidance on the requirements and training process for new volunteers, emphasizing the importance of community service and public safety.
