The shootings of three police officers last December and the tragic deaths of two city firefighters a month ago highlight the need for a strong blood supply, officials said today.
Deputy Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Chief Ken Sim and Deputy Police Chief Doug Webster made the comments as both services launched the 2007 Sirens For Life Blood Challenge with Canadian Blood Services.
The challenge involved members from both services donating blood to see which service gets the most donors. Last year the fire paramedic service won with 20 more donations than the WPS. In total 246 people from the two services donated.
Sim said he hopes firefighters and paramedics get involved in this year’s challenge in light of the Feb. 4 house fire that killed Captains Harold Lessard and Tom Nichols.
“It’s a little way for us to give back to the community for the kindness people have shown us,” he said.
Two firefighters were seriously burned in the house fire. Lionel Crowther was released from hospital last week and recovering at home as a an out-patient. Ed Wiebe remains in hospital.
Firefighters Burn Fund spokesman Martin Johnson said blood donations are used to treat about 100 burn victims a year.
He also encouraged the public to also get involved.
“You will help other people -- guaranteed,” he said.
Webster said police saw first-hand last December the need for a stable blood supply when the three officers were shot during a drug raid on Jubilee Avenue. The three officers have since been released from hospital.
He also said the incident should also serve as an incentive for people to donate blood.
To participate, call CBS at 1-888-236-6283 and indicate you are participating the Sirens For Like challenge. bruce.owen@freepress.mb.ca
PREVIOUS
