6 questions for Paola, prevention agent for the SIM
Paola Noemi Cruz Farfan was a volunteer firefighter in Peru, her birth country. Since becoming a prevention agent, her days are filled with a wide array of tasks aiming to protect the lives of her colleagues in fire stations, along with those of all citizens. This is a great source of pride for her.
What attracted you initially to the position of prevention agent for the Service de sécurité incendie de Montréal (SIM)?
My brother, my sister and myself all worked as volunteer firefighters in our country of origin. In fact, in Peru, all firefighters, both men and women, work on a volunteer basis! Helping others is an intrinsic value as part of our education.
I arrived in Canada in 2002. Every day, on my way back from my French courses, I would pass by fire station 50. One day, I decided to get off the bus and knock on the door of the fire station in order to find out how I could become a volunteer firefighter. I was lucky enough to meet the fire captain, who took the time to give me a tour of the fire station. As I explained, in my own words, what every tool was used for, he came to realize how serious I was about applying.
He then explained to me how things worked here, and that firefighters are not volunteers like they are in my country. He also told me about fire prevention agents and referred me to an agent he knew. Once I met her, it became clear to me that I wanted to become a fire prevention agent, so I registered for the fire prevention program taught at Collège Montmorency.
What is your academic and professional background?
Right after I obtained my attestation of collegiate studies (ACS), I was hired at the Complexe Bonaventure in 2022, where I worked for 9 years. I was in charge of fire prevention for the main building, ensuring the safety of 7,200 employees a showcase hall, as well as up to 1,000 visitors daily, while also ensuring that the Hilton Hotel facilities met fire safety requirements.
In 2018, I moved on to the Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CHUM). I was responsible for the older buildings, such as the Hôtel-Dieu, in addition to ensuring that the research centre and the new hospital complex were in compliance with fire safety standards.
I then joined the Montréal fire department (SIM), where i have been fortunate enough to work since 2022. I am currently completing a supervision certificate at the HEC.
Could you describe a typical day as a fire prevention agent?
Every morning, upon arriving at the fire station, I must first check if I have an requests from firefighters or citizen complaints. These are considered a priority, and I may have to change my agenda for the day to address them.
I then leave for field work using my work vehicle. I inspect all kinds of buildings (buildings containing between 9 and over 100 dwelling units, stores, restaurants, etc.), with every inspection lasting between 15 minutes and 2 hours, depending on the building type.
If possible, I try to use the second part of the day to process all my files electronically. For instance, I send out notices of non-compliance to building owners, detailing the adjustments that are required. I also take the time to call them in order to inform them that an inspection has been carried out, and to discuss the urgent issues that may have been noted.
Which aspects of your profession do you enjoy the most?
Autonomy. I am free to organize my work schedule.
Variety. For instance, I can inspect large buildings one day, do public awareness work the next, or inspect a store. My days as a fire prevention agent are all different. I never get bored!
The sense of accomplishment. Whenever I carry out an inspection, I always keep in mind that one day, “my firefighters” may have to respond there for a fire. My role is to make sure that they can access the premises, but also that they can exit safely. That’s the message that I have for citizens: I am there for their safety, but also for that of “my firefighters”.
What would be your advice for someone who wished to become a fire prevention agent with the Montréal fire department (SIM)?
Be attentive and patient. Take the time to explain the importance of preventive action to citizens. Always keep in mind that most don’t have the same knowledge as we do when it comes to fire prevention.
Follow the great advice of coworkers who are more experienced than you are and surround yourself with positive people.
Be proud of yourself and of contributing to the city’s and the fire department’s mission with respect to fire prevention.
What are the main attributes needed for this job, in your opinion?
Autonomy, professionalism, honesty, loyalty, the wish to serve the public effectively, and a positive energy at work.
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