South East Whiteshell Fire Department

Historically, the Whiteshell Provincial Park never had any proper fire suppression equipment or trained personnel. When a fire occurred in the park, fire crews were sent in to protect the surrounding forest area only. As a result,  many cottages and businesses were destroyed. In 1981, business owners decided to take matters into their own hands and purchase a 1960 Ford Pumper which had been retired from the City of Winnipeg. Eventually, the old bus depot in West Hawk town site was acquired and became what is now the SEWFD Hall. After many Government meetings for authorization, and a shortage of equipment and money, the Department almost collapsed. However, the official recognition from The Minister of Natural Resources was received and the SEWFD was inaugurated in September 1993. The continued growth of the SEWFD would not have been possible without the dedicated effort of the past and present Volunteer Fire Fighters and community support.