2026 will be a special year for Jeff Safronetz.
He joined the Grandview Fire Department in 1996. Almost 30 years later, Jeff has loved serving and protecting his community. He's responded to hundreds of calls in the area.
"It was a way to get involved in the community, and to support people in the community when they're in need," said Safronetz. "I had a great mentor who I lived beside. It was the right thing to do."
Then, 20 years later, in 2016, Jeff was promoted to fire chief of the Grandview Fire Department. He's spent the last nearly decade in the position, and doesn't plan on stopping anytime soon.
"I was honoured to be selected to be the fire chief and lead the crew at the Grandview Fire Department," continued Safronetz.
The Department responds to calls in their municipality, working with Prairie Mountain Health, the RCMP, Stars Air Ambulance, and Mutual Aid calls throughout the Parkland area.
Their current Quick Response Unit was purchased in the early 2000s. While it has done the Department well over the years, it's time for it to be put to bed. The Department is looking to purchase a newer unit, which costs about $72,000. With decals, lights, and a siren on it, it'll be roughly $85,000.
Thanks to a generous donation from Sunrise Credit Union through their Facilities Construction or Improvement Capital Grant, the Fire Department is well on track to make the purchase. They received $15,000 from SCU.
"We, as the firefighters and the municipality, feel very fortunate and honoured to have been selected by Sunrise Credit Union for this grant," continued Safronetz. "I'm sure there were many other applicants. We feel honoured to be chosen out of the group."
If you've ever had an interest in joining the Grandview Fire Department, Safronetz said they're always looking for recruits. If you're interested, reach out to a current member or visit the municipal office.
"It's a great way to help serve the community," added Safronetz. "Usually when we get a call, it's one of the worst days someone could be having. It feels great to help someone out when they need it."
The Department in Grandview currently has 16 members. Responding to, on average, 30 to 35 calls a year, Jeff is always the first to say thank you to his crew for the amazing work they do.
"The crew we have is great. For the most part, they're fairly young, eager, and committed to serving the community," ended Safronetz. "Whether it be fighting fires, vehicle accidents, or doing a pancake breakfast or BBQ, they're always keen to be out and about in the community."
The Grandview Fire Department takes great pride in what they do, and a newer Quick Response Unit is on the way.
