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SAFC delegates enjoy new format

June 2007 – Saskatchewan – The 57th annual Saskatchewan Association of Fire Chiefs’ conference was hosted by Swift Current Fire Chief Bob Rindahl and his crackerjack team April 12-14. Delegates enjoyed a new format, which began with a preconference training sessionwith Don Henry, FFIC columnist and instructor in the automotive service technician and heavy equipment technician programs at Lakeland College in Vermilion, Alta. Henry schooled participants on how to make sense out of purchasing and maintaining fire apparatus.

The conference began with opening ceremonies Thursday evening and a memorial service for fallen firefighters.

The popular trade show, once again sponsored by the manufacturers, was an excellent opportunity to dialogue with the suppliers.

 Patty Hoffinger of the Inspectors’ Division enlightened delegates with a presentation on the ongoing legal dispute regarding the falsifying of smoke alarm testing reports.

Keeping the conference theme Beyond the Glory in mind, keynote speaker Mike Eddy, past president of the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs, offered a thought-provoking presentation on values-based leadership. Eddy’s second presentation, Life Safety for the Chief Officer, was a must for any fire-service educational symposium.

Two new members have been added to the SAFC’s board: Norm Kindred (White City, Region 4); and Ron Hope (Kindersley, Region 7). Thank you to outgoing board members Jack Lichtenwald and Gerry Besse for their dedication and significant contributions to the SAFC.

Chief Bob Rindahl, Chief Roger Nordick and Chief Jack Lichtenwald received awards of merit for outstanding work and exceptional contributions to the SAFC and the fire service in Saskatchewan.  

We look forward to seeing you in North Battleford, April 3-5, 2008.

For a full report on the SAFC conference, see ffic.firefightingincanada.com.

Mike Saunders is president of the Saskatchewan Association of Fire Chiefs