When Alex Forbes began his first day of work with the St. Albert Fire Department more than 30 years ago, he didn’t know he was beginning a career that would soon become his passion.
There was only one other firefighter who worked at the station at that time and there was no such thing as computers or dispatch to answer calls.
Well, times have changed considerably.
As the fire department looked back Wednesday morning at the past 100 years of service in St. Albert, Forbes also offered a reflection of his 30 years donning the coveted firefighters’ crest.
Changes in technology, personnel and equipment were some noteworthy growing pains Forbes experienced, but it was the arrival of the ambulance service that caused the most animosity in the building.
“It was a lot of growing pains. There was two different groups of people working together and you can see the results today,” said the 63-year-old, who retired in 2005. “I have to say it was a career I loved. It’s something I have a passion for and I miss it dearly.”
This year marks the St. Albert Fire Services’ 100th anniversary. To mark the occasion, a new commemorative crest has been created and a variety of celebrations will be held throughout the year to raise the department’s profile in the community.
The first fire brigade was formed in January, 1910, following a fire the previous year that destroyed the town’s fire equipment.
In the years that followed, volunteer firefighters relied on the support of the Edmonton Fire Department, which took at least 12 minutes to drive to St. Albert and another 10 minutes to draw water from the river.
These slow response times, combined with a disastrous fire at the local feed and seed near the elevators in 1952, fuelled further talks of creating St. Albert’s own fire department.
By 1959, the local fire department had its first full-time paid fire chief, who immediately trained the volunteer brigade of 15 men, which grew to 26 by 1961.
Volunteer firefighters continued to supplement full-time staff until 1978. Two years later, an ambulance service was introduced and the department operated as such until 2009.
Fire Chief Ray Richards said he feels privileged to be a part of such a rich history and shares a sense of pride with his fellow comrades.
“It’s a very proud moment for the fire department,” said Richards about celebrating 100 years. “I am thrilled and very fortunate to be a part of that.”
Events the fire department will participate in this year to mark the century milestone include the Olympic torch relay celebration on Jan. 13, the Northern Alberta International Children’s Festival and the Rainmaker Rodeo Parade. It will also host an open house.
