Not the way you want to land.
I have been a member of Orcas Fire and Rescue for 22 years, serving as a volunteer EMT. It has been a very rewarding experience for the most part. Being able to assist colleagues, neighbors, and friends during their times of crisis is a remarkable experience. Working with a team of responders during a big call, such as last nights plane crash, makes all the training worthwhile.
It is painful to see the organization struggling right now. The union vote of no confidence in the Chief is a blow. We have some work to do on organizational culture. But, rest assured, the conflict is not impacting our responses. If you need us, we will be there.
I am hopeful that we can attract new volunteers for both Fire and EMS. The intention is to run academies this Fall and Winter. We could really use some new recruits, especially on the Eastside and in Deer Harbor. If you want to learn more about the opportunity, please feel free to call me or contact Jim McCorison at OIFR directly. Having fully functional emergency response is essential for our community health and wellbeing. Many of my comrades have served for 20+ years. It is time to welcome the next generation of volunteers.
I hope your weekend is cozy.
Hilary