Penhold Volunteer Fire Department

06/06/2026

🚒 MEET YOUR FIRE DEPARTMENT 🚒

This week we’re featuring Lieutenant Ryan Clarke 👨‍🚒

With 11 years of service to Penhold Fire—including 2 years as a cadet and 9 years responding on the front lines—Ryan has grown up in the fire service and become a familiar face both in the hall and throughout the community.

🔥 Why he joined:
What started as a way to earn high school credits quickly became something much bigger. Ryan found a second family within the department and discovered a passion for helping people when they need it most.

💬 Favourite part of the job:
“Getting involved in the community with our events.”

Whether it’s community celebrations, public education, or fundraising events, Ryan enjoys building relationships with the people Penhold Fire serves every day.

🛠️ Off-duty life:
When he’s not wearing turnout gear, Ryan works as an Emergency Rescue Team Captain, Instructor, and Project Coordinator for the oil and gas industry!

🎉 A Few Things About Ryan:
• Originally from Lisburn, Northern Ireland 🇬🇧
• Enjoys golf, slow pitch, and spending time in the gym ⛳🥎💪
• Favourite food: Sushi 🍣
• Favourite show: The Rookie 🚓
• Energy drink of choice: Alani ⚡
• Self-proclaimed night owl 🌙
• Go-to snack: Pineapple 🍍
• Hidden talent: so hidden that he himself doesn’t even know…

🧠 Biggest challenge:
Ryan says one of the hardest parts of the job is witnessing people and families on some of the worst days of their lives. It’s a reminder that firefighting is about far more than fighting fires—it’s about supporting people through difficult moments.

👊 From Ryan:
After more than a decade with the department, Ryan continues to be passionate about serving the community, mentoring newer members, and helping keep Penhold a safe place to live and work.

🧯 Safety Tip:
“Did you know a fire extinguisher only lasts about one second for every pound of extinguishing agent? That means a typical 20-pound extinguisher may only provide about 20 seconds of discharge time. Know where your extinguishers are, make sure they’re maintained, and don’t wait until an emergency to learn how to use one.”

We’re proud to have Ryan on our team and appreciate the leadership, experience, and dedication he brings to Penhold Fire every day.

🚒🔥

05/22/2026

🚒 MEET YOUR FIRE DEPARTMENT 🚒

Lieutenant Brittany Evans 👩‍🚒
Years of Service: 10

For the past 10 years, Brittany has been a dedicated member of the department, bringing leadership, reliability, and a strong commitment to serving the community.

🔥 Why she joined:
Brittany was drawn to the fire service through a passion for community involvement and the opportunity to make a positive impact where she lives.

💬 What she enjoys most:
“The teamwork and knowing you’re making a difference when people need help the most.”

🏦 Off-duty life:
Outside of the department, Brittany works as a Bank Manager, balancing a professional career while continuing to serve the community through the fire service.

🎉 Quick Facts About Brittany:
• Born in Calgary 🌆
• Loves camping, hunting, fires, and spending time gaming with friends 🎮🔥
• Favourite food: Seafood 🦞
• Coffee lover ☕ (“Coffeeeeee” was the official answer)
• Philadelphia Eagles fan 🦅
• Night owl 🌙
• Go-to snack: Chips 🍟
• Hidden talent: “I have no talents” — why do we not believe her…?

🧠 The reality of the job:
Like many firefighters, Brittany understands the importance of balancing work, personal life, and the unpredictable nature of emergency response.

👊 From Brittany:
While she may joke about not having talents, her dedication, leadership, and commitment to the department speak for themselves.

🧯 Safety Message:
“Don’t learn safety by accident.”

We’re proud to have Lieutenant Evans as part of our department and appreciate everything she brings to the team and community every day.

05/08/2026

🚒 MEET YOUR FIRE DEPARTMENT 🚒

Lieutenant / Medical Officer Justin David Graham 👨‍🚒
Years of Service: 12

With 12 years on the department and 9 years working in EMS as a Primary Care Paramedic, Justin brings a wealth of knowledge, professionalism, and experience to every call he attends.

Justin joined the fire service with a strong desire to give back and support others. After seeing firsthand the impact Fire and EMS had on his own family, he knew he wanted to be part of that same support system for others in their time of need.

💬 What he enjoys most:
“Being there for others in their time of need while helping shape the next generation of firefighters.”

🚑 Off-duty life:
Outside the department, Justin works full-time as a Primary Care Paramedic based out of Sylvan Lake, continuing his commitment to serving the community both on and off the fireground.

🎉 Quick Facts About Justin:
• Originally from Vancouver, BC 🌲
• Enjoys fishing, camping, and spending time at the rink with his son 🏒
• Loyal Canucks fan, but supports the Oilers while in Alberta
• Go-to snack: Popcorn and fruit 🍿🍎
• Runs on caffeine ☕⚡
• Early riser 🌅
• Favourite movies/shows include Top Gun and Code 3 🎬

🧠 The reality of the job:
Justin recognizes the importance of preparation, teamwork, and staying ready for the unpredictable nature of emergency services.

🧯 Safety Message:
“Know your fire escape plan and practice it monthly. Rehearse it until you can’t get it wrong. Also ensure your smoke and CO detectors are regularly checked and properly installed.”

Justin’s dedication to both Fire and EMS makes him an incredible asset to the department and community, and we’re proud to have him on the team.

05/07/2026

A huge shout-out to McDonald's Canada in Gasoline Alley for having the Penhold Fire Department out to participate in yet another McHappy Day!

We had a blast connecting with the community, meeting so many awesome people, and supporting an amazing cause through Ronald McDonald House Charities. Events like this remind us that when communities unite, they can accomplish almost anything!

Thanks to the incredible staff for having us out and to everyone who stopped by to chat, ogle the trucks, and support McHappy Day. We're always stoked to be part of events that bring people together for a good cause.

From all of us at Penhold Fire Department - thanks for the hospitality and the food coma we might have induced throughout the shift! We're already counting down to next year's McHappy Day.

05/05/2026

INTERNATIONAL FIREFIGHTERS’ DAY – MAY 4

Alittle late to the party today but..

Today, we proudly recognize International Firefighters’ Day—a time to honour the dedication, courage, and sacrifice of firefighters around the world.

Here at the Penhold Volunteer Fire Department, this day hits close to home. Our members are your neighbours, coworkers, friends, and family. They step away from their daily lives—whether it’s work, supper, or sleep—when the pager goes off, ready to serve our community at a moment’s notice.

From structure fires and medical calls to motor vehicle collisions and community events, our firefighters train hard and respond with professionalism, compassion, and commitment. Being a volunteer firefighter isn’t just about fighting fires—it’s about being there when our community needs us most.

Today, we also take a moment to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Their bravery and legacy will never be forgotten. ❤️

If you see one of our members today, take a moment to say thank you—it means more than you know.

🔥 Interested in joining our team? 🔥
We’re always looking for dedicated individuals who want to make a difference right here in Penhold. No experience? No problem—we provide the training. Reach out to us through our page to learn more about becoming part of something bigger.

Penhold Volunteer Fire Department
Proudly serving our community—today and every day. 🚒

05/01/2026

🚒 Firefighter Friday🚒

Instead of putting the spotlight on 1 firefighter this week, I would like to put the spotlight on all our firefighters as it’s “National First Responders day”

Today, we proudly recognize and thank all first responders who serve our community and beyond. From firefighters and paramedics to law enforcement and dispatchers—this day is about honoring the dedication, courage, and commitment it takes to answer the call, no matter the time or circumstance.

Here in Penhold, we are incredibly proud of our members who volunteer their time to keep our community safe. Our department is made up of a tight-knit, highly trained group of individuals who are committed not only to emergency response, but to continuous learning, teamwork, and supporting one another like family. From long training nights to early morning calls, our members consistently go above and beyond to serve with professionalism and pride.

🔥 Did you know?
• Fire departments across Canada respond to hundreds of thousands of calls every year
• The majority of firefighters in Canada are volunteers, serving their communities while balancing full-time careers and family life
• First responders are on call 24/7—ready to respond at a moment’s notice, day or night, in all conditions
• Seconds matter—rapid response and early intervention can make the difference between life and death

We also want to extend our appreciation to all first responders across the country. Your sacrifices do not go unnoticed, and your work makes a lasting difference every single day.

🚒 Interested in becoming a firefighter?
We’re always looking for dedicated individuals who want to serve their community. No experience? No problem—we provide the training and support you need to succeed. Joining our department means becoming part of a strong, supportive team that values commitment, growth, and community.

If you’ve ever thought about joining the fire service, we’d love to hear from you. Send us a message right here on our page with any questions about joining!

If you see a first responder today, take a moment to say thank you. 🇨🇦

04/26/2026

Reminder this is happening today at the memorial hall🚒

🚒 FIRE DEPARTMENT TRAINING NOTICE 🚒

On Sunday, April 26, 2026, members of your local fire department will be conducting training exercises at the Memorial Hall.

This training will be the final practical exam for NFPA Hazmat 1072 certification, where firefighters will be demonstrating their skills in hazardous materials response.

During this time, you may notice:
• Emergency vehicles in the area
• Firefighters in full protective equipment
• Simulated emergency scenarios

Please note: This is only a training exercise—there is no danger to the public.

We encourage anyone interested in what’s going on to come by, take a look, and have a chat with our members! It’s a great opportunity to see what we do and learn more about your local fire department.

We appreciate your understanding and support as our members continue to train and maintain the highest level of readiness to serve our community.

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out.

04/24/2026

🚒 Firefighter Friday🚒

Firefighter Third Class Cayd Christopher Neilly 👨‍🚒
Years of Service: 3

Cayd’s path into the fire service started early, with a clear goal in mind. Growing up with a passion for firefighting—and a family connection to public service—he always knew this was something he wanted to pursue.

After gaining experience with a rural department, Cayd returned to Alberta and joined Penhold Fire. Since then, he has continued to develop his skills and contribute to the team.

💬 What he enjoys most:
“Turning a bad situation into a good outcome.”
A simple statement that reflects the core of what the fire service is all about.

🛠️ Off-duty life:
Cayd works in Industrial Safety & Blowout Recovery, bringing valuable experience and perspective into his role as a firefighter.

🎉 Quick Facts About Cayd:
• Favourite food: Spaghetti & meatballs 🍝
• Favourite movie: Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark 🎬
• Favourite team: Edmonton Oilers 🏒
• Prefers energy drinks (specifically a White Monster) ⚡
• Night owl 🌙
• Go-to snack: Popcorn 🍿
• Unique talent: Can move both eyebrows independently

🧠 The reality of the job:
For Cayd, early morning calls can be a challenge, especially as someone who naturally leans toward later hours. Like many firefighters, adapting to unpredictable schedules is part of the role.

👊 From the firefighter:
“I’m proud to be a Penhold Fire member and I’m here to help.”

🧯 Safety Message:
“Make sure doorways and windows are free of clutter—if there’s a fire, that could be your way out.”

Cayd’s dedication and steady approach make him a strong member of the department, and we’re proud to have him on the team.

04/23/2026

🚒 FIRE DEPARTMENT TRAINING NOTICE 🚒

On Sunday, April 26, 2026, members of your local fire department will be conducting training exercises at the Memorial Hall.

This training will be the final practical exam for NFPA Hazmat 1072 certification, where firefighters will be demonstrating their skills in hazardous materials response.

During this time, you may notice:
• Emergency vehicles in the area
• Firefighters in full protective equipment
• Simulated emergency scenarios

Please note: This is only a training exercise—there is no danger to the public.

We encourage anyone interested in what’s going on to come by, take a look, and have a chat with our members! It’s a great opportunity to see what we do and learn more about your local fire department.

We appreciate your understanding and support as our members continue to train and maintain the highest level of readiness to serve our community.

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out.

04/17/2026

🚒Firefighter Friday🚒

Firefighter Zachary Marsden 👨‍🚒
Years of Service: 7 months

Zachary is one of the newer members of our department, but he has already become a valued part of the team. Starting his journey in high-school as a cadet, he found his place in the fire service early and has continued to build on that foundation.

💬 What he enjoys most:
“The social aspect of it.”
Zachary values the strong sense of teamwork and connection within the department.

🛞 Off-duty life:
Outside of the fire hall, Zachary works as a tire hand at Trail Tire, bringing a strong work ethic and hands-on skills to both his career and the department.

🎉 Quick Facts About Zachary:
• Began his fire service journey as a cadet 👨‍🚒
• Strong team-oriented mindset 🤝
• Skilled with hands-on work and problem solving 🔧

🧠 The reality of the job:
Zachary recognizes that the mental side of firefighting can be one of the most challenging aspects, highlighting the importance of resilience in the role.

👊 Why he’s a great fit:
With a positive attitude and willingness to learn, Zachary continues to grow within the department and contribute to the team.

We’re proud to have Zachary as part of our department and look forward to seeing his continued development.