The Howe Sound East Fire Protection Service (HSEFPS) has a history of saving lives and structures spanning back to 1904, and on Canada Day, the group and the town of Britannia Beach finally got its due.
More than 100 Howe Sound residents gathered in Britannia Beach on Canada Day to celebrate the opening of its own fire hall - but it's not just any old facility, according to 40-year resident George McLaren.
"The builders have gone over backwards to make sure this is one of the best built fire halls in the entire corridor. We've got new equipment, new training, new members and it's a great plus for us," he said.
The new fire hall captain, whose in the firefighting service for 35 years, said the new facility is a tremendous achievement for the community.
"It's unbelievable. It's almost like it's a dream and I don't want to wake up because this is the best thing that's ever happened in this community."
A campaign showing overwhelming support for the HSEFPS need for a fire hall convinced the Squamish Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) to make it a priority.
The fire hall and a brand new HUB fire engine in 2008 have been the only unused firefighting equipment the HSEFPS has received since 1912.
The first Britannia Beach fire crew formed in 1904 when the mine started up, and the fire brigade had to use buckets of water and sand. In 1912 they were given their first brand new fire apparatus - the hose wheel - that still exists today.
Since the hose wheel's acquisition, the HSEFPS has been given 20-year-old fire trucks on three occasions before the new HUB engine.
On Thursday July 1, HSEFPS president David Hildreth commended the hard work and perseverance that made the structure possible.
"It's a phenomenal accomplishment," said Hildreth, "something that has been a long time needed and it provides added safety and continued fire insurance policies for both communities."
During the ribbon cutting (or hacking) ceremony, Furry Creek Association president Mike Tatchell presented Hildreth with a cheque for $1,000 on behalf of Furry Creek residents.
"It's my privilege on behalf of all of the residents of Furry Creek who are all proud to be here today to open up this fabulous facility, which is so important and critical to our protection and our fire safety," said Tatchell.
Fire chief Lance Iverson said the benefits will span not only to improved safety, but to household finances.
"This should result in much shorter response times and all residents should be able to look forward to reduced fire insurance rates as a result," he said.
Two volunteer firefighters were recognized for their service during the ceremony. Iverson presented a 10-year service certificate to Jeramy Boyd and Ron Fulber received the Exemplary Service medal for 20-years service.
Fire chief Iverson finished the presentation by asking anyone living in Britannia Beach or Furry Creek interested in volunteer firefighting to contact him.
