Mesachie Lake Volunteer Fire Department to Resume Operations

Duncan, BC – Effective Friday, February 2 the Mesachie Lake Volunteer Fire Department will resume operations.

“Safety remains our top priority for our firefighters and our community,” explains Chair Jon Lefebure. “Following discussions with the firefighters regarding moving forward and resuming operations, we have been able to bring in new leadership to restart fire department operations while a third-party review is conducted. This review will include an assessment of the department’s equipment, building, and operations to ensure the safety of Mesachie Lake residents, now and into the future.”

“Kevin Smith, a former captain with the Mesachie Lake Volunteer Fire Department, has stepped forward to lead the department as fire chief in the interim. Kevin is a long-time resident of Mesachie Lake, living and working in the community, and has extensive professional experience in emergency response.”

Since 1981, Smith’s emergency management experience has included varied instructing, planning and para-medicine (EMT paramedic) with the Justice Institute of British Columbia, as an Auto Industry Safety Supervisor as well as serving for over 24 years as Captain/Safety Officer with the Mesachie Lake Volunteer Fire Department.

“The CVRD Board appreciates the concerns expressed by area residents, the suggestions raised by Mesachie Lake firefighters, and the support of both the Honeymoon Bay Volunteer Fire Department and the Lake Cowichan Volunteer Fire Department,” says Chair Lefebure.

The third-party review is expected to be completed in the spring with a report being provided to the Board for its consideration.