5 graduates welcomed as Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services staffing challenges linger [Video]

LETHBRIDGE –

With more than 26,000 calls last year, staffing for Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services (LFES) has been stretched thin at times.

“There are times when other ambulance services – like Alberta Health Services – are coming in and doing calls because we simply don’t have any more resources available,” said Sean Larkin, LFES recruit training officer.

“We try to minimize that the best we can but sometimes, it is out of our control.”

This year, the department had 24 open recruitment positions spread out between two classes, however, only 12 spots were filled.

“As the city is growing and we’re trying to add more resources to better serve the community, it does become a struggle when we don’t get the numbers we’re looking for,” Larkin said.

Some of the pressure was alleviated as five LFES recruits graduated on Friday during a ceremony at the Galt Museum.

“Every single one of …