17 years and counting as firefighter

It’s been 17 years since Marc Laliberte wrote the exam to become a firefighter.
April 29, 2010: Volume 37 #9, Page B8
It’s a far cry from what the Cowessess band member expected to be doing when he graduated from university with an economics degree.
“I had graduated and started looking for a job,” Laliberte explained. “I saw an ad in the newspaper that the city was looking for firefighters so I applied.”
Prior to going to school for his degree, Laliberte had held a variety of jobs including welding and truck driving.
“I felt well-qualified for firefighting because of my work experience, I was physically active and had my first aid and CPR qualifications,” he said.
He passed the written exam and was contacted by mail to prepare for the physical tests.
He took the initial physical test with ease. It included running, push-ups, sit-ups and grip strength.
He then continued on to the firefighter physical exam which included more job-related testing including climbing a ladder, carrying weights, dragging dummies and moving heavy equipment.
Laliberte said firefighting is a great career.
“You feel the respect,” he said. “People have a knowledge you are there to help them. You feel immediate return. You put out the fire and were able to save someone’s home.”
Laliberte is hopeful more youth will consider a career in firefighting and bring their skills home to their communities.
“There is a real need for more firefighters and equipment in our First Nations,” Laliberte said. “Statistically, people are twice as likely to perish in a structural fire on reserve compared to the city.”
A career in firefighting means more than just putting out fires, Laliberte said.
“Fighting fires is the largest portion of our duties,” he said. “Medical related calls are also high.”
Laliberte and his colleagues also respond to motor vehicle accidents, water and ice rescue, high angle rescues and hazardous material spill calls.
“I’ve helped people off Mount McKay,” when they were in danger, Laliberte said. “Those are very precise rescues.”
Responding to a fire-call is what Laliberte is there for.
“There’s an adrenaline rush when the call comes is,” he said. “You always have to be aware of the danger.
“The job is inherently dangerous. I think that’s why it attracts a lot of young men.”