Back in July, my mom became very very sick, very suddenly. So much so, we, for the first time ever, called 911. They dispatched an ambulance, in addition to the 108 Mile Volunteer Fire Department (VFD).
In under two minutes, four of our local fire/rescue volunteers were at our home administering first aid to my 91-year-old mom. A minute and a half later, the ambulance team arrived and upon evaluation, they loaded Mom into the ambulance and took off for the 100 Mile Hospital.
Halfway into town, they hit the lights and sped up considerably and at that point I thought I had lost my mom. Next month, she celebrates her 92nd birthday.
I attribute the fact that my mom is alive and well today thanks in part to our local fire/rescue volunteers,100 Mile hospital staff, and the B.C. ambulance services.
The 108 Mile VFD's team of volunteers literally volunteered to help save her life.
Think about that for a minute, the volunteer work they choose to do helps save people’s lives. They actually save human life…in their spare time, as something to do after work, after a long day! As a pastime, something to keep busy, as a hobby, as an alternative to channel surfing!!
Oh, and if saving lives after work is not enough, they bust their backsides trying to stop your house from burning down too.
The Heartbeat of the Community: 108 Mile Volunteer Fire Department
Nestled in the heart of the Cariboo, the 108 Mile VFD has long been a cornerstone of the local ranch community. Known for their dedication, resilience, and unwavering service, this volunteer fire department plays a crucial role in keeping the residents of 108 Mile Ranch safe, secure and out of harm's way.
As I mentioned, it’s clear that their commitment goes beyond just putting out fires, they are the lifeblood of emergency response in this rural area. Forest fires? For sure. Car wrecks? Covered. Cat up a tree? Certainly.
A Proud History of Service
The 108 Mile VFD was established in the mid-1970’s, and has grown from a small group of volunteers to a modern fire service organization equipped to tackle a wide range of emergencies. What started as a grassroots effort to protect the local community has since evolved into an essential service that responds not only to fires but also to medical emergencies, motor vehicle accidents and assists in rescue operations in often challenging terrain.
Over the decades, the fire department has forged strong bonds with residents, who recognize the invaluable role these men and women play. In fact, many of the department’s members have grown up in the area, continuing the tradition of service that started with their parents and grandparents.
Volunteerism at Its Core
One of the most remarkable aspects of the 108 Mile VFD is that it is entirely volunteer-driven. Firefighters and emergency responders, many of whom juggle full-time jobs and family commitments, donate their time to ensure the safety of their neighbours. Their dedication is nothing short of extraordinary, as they commit to rigorous training schedules and respond to emergencies at all hours of the day or night, regardless of the personal cost. Chris Haddad is the 108 Mile VFD fire chief.
“We have five members that are 30 years plus. Without the commitment from people like these and others, the fire service wouldn’t exist,” Haddad said. “Currently we have 17 active members and are looking for more volunteers. Stop by any Tuesday night at 7 p.m. to apply.”
Training and Preparation: Ready for Anything
While many think of firefighters primarily as those who fight fires, the reality is that their training spans far beyond flames. Firefighters in the 108 Mile Ranch are trained in a variety of specialized skills, including ice rescue, first aid and wildfire fighting and management. With the growing threat of wildfires in the Cariboo region, these skills have become more important than ever.
The department’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to such emergencies could be the difference between life and death. 108 Mile Fire Department is dispatched to about 160 calls every year, of which approximately 75 per cent are medically related.
In addition to technical training, the team regularly participates in community outreach programs, teaching fire safety, fireproof training, and emergency preparedness for residents of all ages. Building awareness of fire prevention and safety measures is crucial, particularly in rural areas where resources can be stretched thin in the event of a large-scale emergency.
Community Connection
It’s not all about emergencies, much of the fire department’s value comes from its strong connection to the community. The 108 Mile VFD hosts and participates in numerous events throughout the year, such as the annual open house each spring which celebrates their volunteers and raises awareness of fire safety. Local families look forward to events like the Christmas Parade, where the fire trucks are decorated with lights, bringing holiday cheer to all who attend.
These community-building activities reinforce the idea that the fire department isn’t just there for emergencies—they are an integral part of what makes 108 Mile Ranch a welcoming and connected place to live. The department’s volunteers don’t just fight fires; they help foster a sense of pride and camaraderie among the residents they serve.
Challenges and Looking to the Future
Like many rural fire departments, 108 Mile VFD faces several challenges, from maintaining funding to the growing demands of an expanding population. The region’s landscape, with its dense bush and rural roads, presents unique difficulties for firefighters, particularly when dealing with wildfires, hazardous material spills or a cat up a hundred-foot fir tree.
Despite these challenges, the 108 Mile VFD is committed to meeting the needs of the community. With support from local government, donors, and the continued dedication of volunteers, they are constantly working to improve their resources and expand their capacity.
Looking ahead, the department plans to continue its efforts to upgrade equipment, increase training opportunities, and ensure that its firefighters are ready for the next emergency, no matter what it may be. With a strong community foundation and a team of dedicated individuals, the 108 Mile VFD is poised to face whatever challenges come their way.
A Message of Gratitude
It’s important to remember that the 108 Mile VFD is made up of real people, mothers, fathers, neighbours and friends, who put their lives on the line to keep our community safe. Whether they’re rushing to a fire, administering first aid, or participating in a community event, they are always there when we need them most.
So, the next time you see one of the fire department’s volunteers, take a moment to thank them. Their selfless service is what makes 108 Mile Ranch a place we’re all proud to call home.
If you would like to support the department consider attending one of their upcoming fundraising events, help out at the fire hall, or make a donation to help fund new equipment and training. Better still, join the force, or become a volunteer. You could be the one rescuing that damn cat up a tree.
Upcoming Events
Finally, as a reminder, the 108 Mile Ranch community will celebrate Family Day in a BIG way this year. On Monday, Feb. 17, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the 108 Mile Community Centre there will be a pile of activities for families of all ages. These include mini golf, ATV rides, Wranglers street hockey, snow sliding and hot chocolate and cookies. Contact a 108 Mile Board member for further details via the 108 Community Ranch Facebook page or go to 108ranch.com for further information.
