A group of volunteers dismissed from the Silton Fire Department have found a way to bring fire protection services back to the area, by forming a new volunteer fire department based in a neighboring community. “The support that I’ve received from surrounding fire departments throughout the province has been really appreciated,” said Chief Corey Coons of the Last Mountain Fire Department. In August, Coons and his deputy were dismissed from their volunteer positions with the Silton Fire Department, following disagreements with the village council over funding and governance issues. Other dismissals and resignations followed, which led to the temporary closure of the Silton fire department. Since then, 13 of the volunteers have helped form a new fire department just two minutes away in Saskatchewan Beach. “The current setup was the best way to get something back in the community and working,” added Coons. The resort village of Saskatchewan Beach helped fund and relied on the Silton Fire Department, but was concerned about the ongoing suspension of service. It’s signed a one-year service agreement with Silton’s former chief and his volunteers, who will work with leased equipment. “Peace of mind for our residents,” says Corey Livingstone, mayor of Saskatchewan Beach. “Not having a fire department, people are concerned about insurance for their homes and the safety of the community.” Volunteers anticipate opportunities for skill development. “Somebody’s reached out to us for some search and rescue capabilities, and we’re already looking at vehicle extrication, water rescue, a bunch of stuff like that. So, we have a lot more capability that we’ll be able to take on,” said volunteer firefighter Nic Skulski. Saskatchewan Beach - located about 45 kilometers northwest of Regina - is still part of the funding arrangement for the Silton Fire Department. Services are expected to resume soon, with future discussions likely focused on a long-term plan for fire protection in the region.
