They've had to battle drywall dust and put up with sections that were closed off for two years now but yesterday's (February 9) unveiling of the much improved and expanded Crossfield Fire Hall proved the wait and inconvenience was worth it.  

The fire crews showed off their new digs to community members with tours of the hall, face painting for the kids and refreshments supplied by McDonald's.  At noon there was a special ribbon-breaking ceremony to officially open the building.

Assistant Chief Sue McFarlane was more than a little excited about having the new facility.  "We've been expanding and renovating for a little over two years, I believe.  It is finally done and everything is shiny and beautiful and ready and great," she exclaims.

The new fire hall has double the capacity of the original building.  McFarlane says the facility addresses two important things that any good fire department needs.

"Availability and response times.  We've always had great response times, but since we don't have to go in other areas to get trucks, all of our trucks are here, they're easily accessed.  We have sleeping quarters for our out of town program so we're all available and able to respond quickly and get the trucks rolling."

The renovations included other enhancements, including a new fire pole.  During the two years of work on the building, the fire department was never closed.   

What's the community think of the expanded and improved building?  McFarlane says they love it.  "They know that we do a lot of calls every year and they understand the need for being able to grab our trucks and have everything in one area."

McFarlane explains that the CFD has around 42 members but are planning another recruiting drive since they lose members, due to changes in people's situations, every year.  

New and retired fire department members plus many people from the community were on hand for yesterday's unveiling.