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Letter to Editor
ShareRetired member responds to allegations
Published: October 07, 2008 7:00 PMUpdated: October 08, 2008 8:54 AM
To the editor:
Re: “Concern over 9-1-1 response,” Joan Silver, Oct. 1, 2008.
As a recently retired member of the Canim Lake Volunteer Fire Department, I feel compelled to reply to the front page article in your October 1 edition regarding concerns over 9-1-1 response.
Firstly, let me say I’m relieved to hear Manuel appears to be making a satisfactory recovery.
Having said that, I feel Guenther Dangela’s thoughtless remarks were misleading and uncalled for.
Although I was not in attendance, as a trained and certified first responder, I can testify that I personally have packed and inventoried our first responder kits and we have ample supply of sterile burn dressings of just about every shape and size.
Let me assure the members of our community that we can feel proud and confident of the incredible group of dedicated volunteers that have sacrificed numerous weekends and evenings of instruction to serve you.
As to the remark too many first responders were in attendance?
First of all, this is a testimony that amalgamation with Forest Grove was a very good thing. And, what is the alternative to too many first responders?
It’s comforting to know you can send volunteers home because you have too many. It’s also worth noting that in attendance were two certified training officers with endless experience. If you knew the credentials of the volunteers in attendance, Guenther, you would have thought before you spoke.
I think it is also worth mention that although Canim Lake has comparatively limited first responder experience, Forest Grove has extensive know-how. And we were certified by two of the most dedicated people I have ever had the pleasure to take instruction from.
And to think everything I have gone through to help provide our area with an exceptional service has gone for naught because of one man’s comments makes my blood boil. Quick! Call 9-1-1!
Rick Reeves
Canim Lake
