The community of Knutsford forever changed last year, when the nearby Ross Moore Lake fire burned 114 square kilometres and forced several homes to be evacuated. In response to that natural disaster, the community of Knutsford created the Knutsford Community Response Society (KCRS), to better prepare residents, property owners and businesses for emergency situations.
Our Dawson Construction yard in Knutsford was one of the last places Long Lake Road to remain open during the evacuation alert. During those unprecedented times, Dawson Construction offered to support the crews and community members any way possible.
This summer, Dawson Construction jumped at the opportunity to support the new program.
In an effort to increase the society’s resources, Dawson Construction became a bronze level sponsor, donating $2,500 to assist with KCRS’ needs.
“We were incredibly grateful to receive this donation. We drive by the Knutsford yard all the time and know some of the employees that work there, so it is great to know that they care about the community they operate in,” said Gordon Petersen, President of KCRS.
The KCRS consists of Knutsford residents who have taken certified forest fire fighting courses and now are the first line of response before wildfire service arrives on scene. Petersen noted that the donated funds will help purchase protective equipment and clothing, along with new communication devices, such as radios.
The benefits of this program have already proven themselves this summer, as the KCRS either helped put out or knock down four fires in their community. They also assist wildfire service members who are not familiar with the area, how to access fires and navigate the landscape.
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