A group of Altona-area employers were recognized Monday night for their contribution to the community safety program.

The 10 employers invited to the gathering were also presented with a plaque acknowledging their working relationship with the fire department.

As part of their annual end-of-summer bbq, members of Altona/Rhineland Emergency Services hosted an appreciation dinner to say thanks for allowing volunteer firefighters to leave work in the middle of the day to attend calls.

"If our employers didn't allow the employees to leave, we'd be very hard-pressed to have a firefighting crew," said Fire Chief Greg Zimmerman

On average, Zimmerman says between 14 to 16 members respond to a daytime call during the week. He adds having a good daytime response is critical, noting the average house fire requires at least a dozen firefighters for the initial attack and about 18 are needed for a commercial or industrial fire.

"We are very very fortunate in this town. The employers take the commitment to safety for all citizens very seriously. They are great corporate citizens," he added.

The 10 employers invited to the gathering were also presented with a plaque acknowledging their working relationship with the fire department.

Meantime, Zimmerman took a moment to thank Friesens Corp. for its timely donation earlier this year. He explained the department's thermal imaging camera had just stopped working when the cheque came in and says the money was quickly used to replace the critical piece of equipment.

In addition, Monday's steak supper was cooked on a large charcoal grill made and donated by Elmer's Manufacturing.