Guardian First Aid Service provides essential services

Guardian First Aid Service has been providing services in and around the East and West Kootenay since 2003

To ensure the safety of all workers, Guardian will perform a safety and hazard assessment of the workplace and will customize a first rate O.H.S plan. — Photo courtesy guardianfirstaid.com/

Guardian First Aid Service, based in Elkford, B.C., is one of many suppliers to Teck Coal in the Elk Valley. Guardian's clients include those involved with coal-bed methane, pole line construction, movie filming, community events and many others. The company's qualifications include EMP advanced medics, EMA paramedics, CPR "C", oxygen therapy, AED, H2S, spinal management, WHMIS and loss prevention.

Mining & Exploration had a chance to ask Debby Tomich, owner of Guardian First Aid Service, some questions about the company, its relationship with Teck and what Tomich likes about working and living in the East Kootenay.

Can you give me an overview of Guardian First Aid Service? 

Guardian First Aid is a company that provides first aid service. We have five MTC units fully equipped to handle minor injuries to major. Guardian's classifications are OFA Level 3 first aiders and up to paramedic level. Guardian has been in business and servicing the East and West Kootenay since 2003.

Has Guardian won any awards?

My company came in second in the East Kootenay Zone mine rescue provincial competition in 2006 for the three-man first aid team.

What are you most proud of when it comes to your company?  

I am proud that I can help someone in need and help people in the Kootenays.

How do you and/or your company get involved in the community?  

Myself, I am always helping the community when I can. I am involved in emergency social services in Elkford, a member with Search and Rescue, a member of the Elkford Lions Club and I am the unit chief for Elkford, B.C., ambulance service. My company has participated in several activities in Elkford. Guardian donates two days a year for the (Wilderness Classic Sled Dog Derby). Guardian has also donated time for Wildcat Days, ATV jamborees, participated in the local parades and we have donated time at the local ski hill.

What is your history with Teck?

Guardian has been working on and off with Teck since around 2000, when it was Fording River Operations. We have worked on several exploration projects in the valley. I believe that Guardian has a great working relationship with them. Working with Teck is a treat because the company does try to put safety for everyone first. I also like that Teck does try to employ local contractors in the area.

Were you born and raised in the Kootenays?

I was born in Trail, B.C., and raised in Rossland, B.C., in the West Kootenay. In 1972, my husband was hired by Fording Coal and I moved up in 1973; we raised three children in Elkford.

What do you like most about living here? 

I love the Kootenays, especially the East (Kootenay). To me, it is peaceful, friendly and gorgeous. The people are friendly no matter where you go, the scenery is fantastic and (there is) nature right at your back door.

What are your hobbies outside of work?  

My hobbies are spending time with my grandkids when I can; I also love fishing and camping.