City of Surrey Urgently Needs Emergency Volunteers

Surrey, BC – The City of Surrey is actively recruiting for both on call Emergency Support Services (ESS) and Community Engagement volunteers for Fire Services.

ESS volunteers provide short-term assistance (up to 72 hours) to residents who are forced to leave their home because of fire, flood, earthquake and other emergencies. ESS volunteers work at a reception centre to provide short-term lodging, family reunification, food, clothing and emotional support.

“When a crisis hits our community, whether it’s large or small, we need many hands to help those in need. Having ESS volunteers ready to go is essential to helping our residents get back on their feet when disaster strikes”, said Shelley Morris, Assistant Chief, Surrey Fire.  “During the pandemic, our volunteer pool became depleted due to restrictions, so with fire season upon us, our goal is to get 100 volunteers in the next few months that we can draw on.”

Volunteering in an Emergency Support role would appeal to people who have flexibility in their schedule, enjoy helping others, are compassionate and wish to make a difference in their community. Having the ability to speak a second language would also be an asset.

“While training is required for ESS volunteers, it can be done over time”, commented Shelley Morris. “The important thing now is to recruit people who are committed to this important work. This year has been relatively quiet, but you never know when the next emergency will happen.”

Community Engagement volunteers focus largely on educating the public on important fire safety and emergency preparedness messages through community events or speaking directly to residents about the Homesafe Smoke Alarm program.

Visit www.surrey.ca/volunteer for more information and to apply.