Rural fire chief lauded on last day
Linda Sappington
Volunteer firefighters and others gathered Sept. 30 to say goodbye to John Fairchild on his last day after serving 28 years with the Polson City and Rural fire departments. Above, from left, are Polson Rural Interim Chief Paul Laisey, John Fairchild, Lake County Disaster and Emergency Services Coordinator Steve Stanley and Lake County Commissioner Bill Barron.
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POLSON — Well-wishers gathered at the Polson Rural Fire Station to wish Polson Rural Fire Chief John Fairchild all the best on his last day Sept. 30. At exactly 5 p.m., Lake County Dispatch honored Fairchild with an emotional call across the scanner thanking him for 28 years of service.
“He’s been a terrific asset to the community,” said Jack Clapp, chairman of the Polson Rural Fire Board. “With his leadership we avoided significant loss. He did a tremendous job of being proactive.”
Fairchild began as a volunteer firefighter and worked his way up the ranks, serving as chief of both Polson City and Polson Rural departments.
“It’s been rewarding,” Fairchild said. “I enjoy serving my community. I always have.”
There’s still work to be done, Fairchild said, reminding the community to take responsibility for creating a defensible space around their homes and reduce the risk of structure loss, or worse.
“Fire protection is the responsibility of everyone,” he said. “It’s not just our problem, it’s the community’s problem … The public really needs to start addressing it.”
Stepping into the position is interim chief Paul Laisey, a 30-year veteran of the Missoula Rural Fire District. Laisey recently toured some of the 200-square miles the rural department covers — which Fairchild claims is the busiest fire department in the county.
“Fire season is not over,” Laisey said, adding that there is still an abundance of dry fuels as burning season opens.
Those who choose to burn are reminded that they are responsible for any property damage their fire may cause, and could also be held responsible for the cost of suppression.
