The Steinbach Fire Department is looking for a few good women and men. Fire Chief Kel Toews says they hold a recruiting drive about every two years to fill vacancies due to retirements or other departures. He explains the type of candidates they are looking for.

"We're looking for a team player. Firefighting is not an individual pursuit, it's a team thing. So, we're looking for someone with that quality and someone who is dedicated, committed to doing the job and it takes certain physical qualities too. It's a hard job to do."

Toews adds those physical attributes include being able to climb a ladder with no fear of heights and being able to crawl through a tight space and not have claustrophobia. He says they will choose up to 12 candidates from the applications. Toews notes the training takes one-and-a-half years every Tuesday night and some weekends.

"It is a huge commitment for you and your family so do the research and make sure it is something you want to do. Come to the information night. You can also go to steinbach.ca, the city's website, there's an information package there. Make sure this is what you want. We'd hate to invest time and money for you to find out it's not what you thought it was. Be informed and, if you find it's something you want, please apply. We'd love to have you."

There will be an information meeting at the fire hall Tuesday, October 9th at the fire hall for interested people.

The simulated 'smoke house' was in full use at the fire hall open house Tuesday.

Future firefighters check out some of the tools of the trade.