CARLYLE - Over 30 years ago, local towns, villages, and rural municipalities felt it was important to add safety and rescue to its mandates.
In 1991, a bylaw was signed by local municipal governments to establish an emergency measures organization, now known as Redcoat Mutual Aid.
The objectives of this organization have not changed over time. Redcoat was formed to provide unified and effective administration for neighbouring communities and to lend reciprocal assistance, expertise and equipment in a declared disaster or needed situation.
They would also provide effective communication between the members and pool their resources and manpower together under one umbrella.
The focus of Redcoat Mutual Aid is to ensure their local fire departments have rescue equipment. Separate from fire equipment, all these tools and resources are used for instances such as vehicle accidents, water rescue and fire rescue. When a department responds to a rescue call, those in the Redcoat area can rest assured they are well equipped with both equipment and funding through Redcoat Mutual Aid.
Annually, local governments contribute on a per capita basis to Redcoat Mutual Aid. These include the towns of Arcola, Carlyle and Redvers; the villages of Kenosee Lake, Kisbey, Manor and Storthoaks; and the RMs of Antler, Brock, Moose Mountain, Reciprocity and Storthoaks.
All Redcoat Mutual Aid vehicles and equipment are stored at either the Carlyle or Redvers fire hall facilities. Over the years, Redcoat has been able to procure high-quality, modern and efficient rescue equipment that can rival the larger communities.
Redcoat Mutual Aid is often the first to arrive at any accident scene. Lifesaving rescue equipment includes the Jaws of Life, vehicle stabilizers, and defibrillators. They partake in fire, water, ice, snowmobile, grain bin and heavy equipment rescues, as well as establishing safe landings for the STARS Air Ambulance.
Regular semi-annual meetings are held with all local government representatives in attendance. In addition to requisitioning additional equipment and clothing needs for their members, a request for training dollars is their No. 1 priority. Along with fire safety courses, many members have undertaken specialized training in areas such as heavy equipment, high angle, grain bin and ice/water rescues.
“It is going to take a lot of additional training to keep with the new technology,” said Fire Chief Don Van Meer. “Nowadays, many different hazardous materials are hauled on our highways and with the increased interest in electric vehicles, it is important that we keep ahead of the curve. Training is expensive but essential.”
Redcoat Mutual Aid serves a 2,400-square-kilometre area in southeast Saskatchewan. Owen Gavelin of the Town of Redvers is chairman and Syd Chicoine of the R.M. of Storthoaks is vice-chairman. Jena Cowen of Redvers is the Secretary-treasurer.
This important organization wishes to promote itself and has created its own social media page. They have also developed a new logo which will be proudly displayed on all equipment and vehicles.
If anyone is interested in donating funds directly to Redcoat Mutual Aid, either email them at [email protected] or contact your local fire department. Donations are tax-deductible if directly deposited through either the Town of Carlyle or Town of Redvers administration offices.
