With a time of three minutes, 24 seconds, the Shuswap Volunteer Fire Department broke the provincial course record on the Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) challenge at the annual Spring Fire Training Seminar in Oliver.
“We’re proud of them. It just goes to show how good the training is. We can compete and win on a provincial level,” says Shuswap Fire Chief Wayne Morrison. “It’s a credit to the training staff as well.”
The RIT course itself is meant to simulate the rescue of a fallen firefighter.
Each team of four has to carry a 185 lb. dummy through a difficult structure, navigating small spaces, breaking through drywall and downed wires – while being blindfolded.
“This is a gruelling challenge done with full gear and breathing apparatus on,” says Columbia Shuswap Regional District Fire Services Co-ordinator Kenn Mount.
Teams are allowed multiple attempts on the course and the Tappen-Sunnybrae Fire Department earned the distinction of having the fastest first attempt with a time of five minutes, 24 seconds.
A number of firefighters placed well in the demanding individual event: the BC Firefighter’s Challenge.
Shuswap Department firefighter Tyler Barrett won in his age group and tied for first place overall with a time of one minute 16 seconds. Tappen-Sunnybrae’s Marc Zaichowsky, a two-time defending champion of the BC Firefighter’s Challenge, finished first in his age group and second overall. Zaichowsky’s time was one minute 19 seconds. Silver Creek firefighter Doug Felhauer came second in his age group in the challenge with a time of one minute 51 seconds.