Conception Harbour fire chief bids farewell

By Mark Squibb

After serving nearly four years with the Conception Harbour Fire Department, including three as Chief, John Wells, along with wife Kim, who served alongside him, have packed their bags for Chance Cove.

The department is the third that Wells has served at in his lifetime, having learned the art from his father Don.

“Firefighting is a bit of a family business,” said Wells. “My dad was deputy chief for 25 years in a wee town in Ontario where I grew up, and it was instilled in me at a very early age that if you’re the son of a firefighter, you participate. So, we used to go caroling at the old folks’ home and throw out candy during the Santa Claus parade and all that good stuff.”

Wells said that during his time at the Conception Harbour department he worked to better the department’s critical incident reporting, community outreach, and fundraising, while also working to maintain the department’s truck, which he added is one of the oldest in the province, as well the equipment and schedule training sessions for members.

Wells applauded the neighbouring fire departments in Conception Bay Centre and their fire chiefs for their camaraderie and words of encouragement over the years.

“I had so much help,” said Wells. “Everybody was fantastic in helping me adjust to the role.”

Wells encouraged others to consider volunteering with their local departments.

“Firefighting can be one of the most rewarding things that you ever do,” said Wells. “Every firefighter has every other firefighter’s back.”

That’s not to say, of course, that the position doesn’t come with challenges.

“My dad said, ‘You join up, hoping like hell you’re not going to see what you know you’re going to see,’” said Wells. “But somebody has to do it. And I’ll tell you, the mental health support for firefighters now is second to none.”

Since moving to Chance Cove, John and Kim have already been in touch with the fire department about becoming members.