An important aspect for the professional firefighters in Weyburn is their work to raise funds for the Saskatchewan Professional Fire Fighter Association Burn Fund.
An important aspect for the professional firefighters in Weyburn is their work to raise funds for the Saskatchewan Professional Fire Fighter Association Burn Fund. Every year, the SPFFA selected 12 dedicated fire fighters for their annual calendar, which is one of their biggest fundraisers for the provincial Burn Fund.
Since being established in 1974, the SPFFA Burn Fund has raised over $6 million for ongoing funding of two burn units in Regina and Saskatoon, the Hyperbaric chamber in Moose Jaw, continuing education for nurses and doctors in the province for burn care and treatment, along with public awareness programs on burn safety and prevention.
"Our goal is to make a stay in the burn unit as short and as comfortable as possible," said Kirby Benning, president of the Saskatchewan Professional Fire Fighters Association Burn Fund. "As fire fighters, we know all too well burn injuries change lives. The scars, both physical and mental, last a lifetime."
"It is our goal to do all we can to reduce the pain and suffering of those who fall victim to burn injuries as well as preventing these types of accidents through public education," added Benning.
The funds raised are attributed to the volunteer efforts of the SPFFA members throughout the province along with the support of the citizens in Saskatchewan, both from the private and corporate communities.
All funds that are raised in the province stay in Saskatchewan for the sole purpose of fulfilling the mandate of burn care and treatment to the citizens that SPFFA serve. Already the 2012 calendar can be purchased in stores or online, and residents can go to www.saskfirefighterscalendar.com for locations and availability.
"The individuals that appear in our calendar are real fire fighters, everyday heroes who risk their lives to save the lives and properties of total strangers," said Benning. "These fire fighters are donating their time to help increase awareness of the need for burn research and public education."
