RCMP are looking for information after key rescue equipment and gear were stolen from a rural fire department in Digby County, Nova Scotia.
The Southville Fire Department says the break-in left them short a firefighter and unable to use one of their most important tools — the Jaws of Life. A full set of bunker gear and the hydraulic motor and pump that power the rescue device were taken.
The theft is estimated to have caused $6,000 to $7,000 in damages and losses.
The break-in was discovered by a painting crew earlier this month, who arrived to find windows smashed at the small station building. The department then contacted Digby RCMP.
Southville’s volunteer department has about 20 members and covers the rural communities of Southville, Riverdale, and Danvers. Without the stolen uniform, one firefighter is currently sidelined.
This isn’t the first time the station has been broken into, but officials say this is the most costly incident to date. In previous cases, gasoline was taken — but not life-saving equipment.
The department is now working with neighbouring fire stations to fill the gap. The Havelock Fire Department is lending its Jaws of Life equipment, and Bear River has also offered support.
RCMP believe the person or people responsible may have fled the scene in a side-by-side all-terrain vehicle. Anyone with information is asked to call Digby RCMP at 902-245-2579 or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
