Photo: Kate Bouey

A restored fire bell will ring in 125 years of service by Vernon Fire Rescue Services at a celebration this Saturday. The public is invited to take part in a host of activities.

Said to weigh around 2,000 lbs., the bell used to sound at the original fire hall, calling firefighters to an emergency.

The unveiling of the restored fire bell is the culmination of months of planning and community collaboration, said fire chief Keith Green.

“So many people and community-minded businesses have contributed to this historical project,” said Green. “We are lucky to live in a community where people are so kind with both their time and resources to make events like this become a reality.”

The restored fire bell is mounted into a brickwork arch that is based on the original fire hall’s architecture.

The restoration project included numerous financial and in-kind donations for a total cost of approximately $30,000.

The bell's new home will be unveiled on Saturday at noon, attended by Vernon Mayor Akbal Mund, Vernon Monashee MLA Eric Foster, North Okanagan Shuswap MP Mel Arnold and speakers from the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) and Vernon Volunteer Firefighters Association (VVFA).

Guests can also enjoy burgers provided by the Lion’s Club for a donation.

Schedule of events

• 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.: VFRS open house and tours, Buy-a-Brick fundraiser $10 each, bouncy castle and family activities; antique fire truck display (Firehall #1 and Vernon Museum & Archives); face painting at Vernon Museum & Archives
• 12 p.m.: Sea Cadets band sings 'Oh Canada' and 'God Save the Queen'
• 12 p.m.: Bell restoration project unveiling

A long list of people, including firefighters, who pitched in to create a new home for the bell, is on the City of Vernon's website.