Their purpose in attending was in relation to a new memorandum-of-understanding signed between WETT and the NCSG. How is it that the two bodies had not been working more closely together before? A very good question. While there are minor differences in market & member needs, these are far outnumbered by the many things we all have in common. The partnership was long overdue. We each have much to share with the other to make both organizations stronger.

 

Bill and Bob did your organization proud. Bill was quick to speak when asked to do so during the many meetings that were held behind the scenes, and Bob was treated like the folk hero he is. He is a true inspiration for our industry. Bob was up at the crack-of-dawn each day looking to hike local trails and to climb the steep mountains that surrounded the event’s venue yet was still back in time to enjoy morning coffee with other early risers before the start of each day’s activities. He could be seen all over the Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre engaged in one-on-one and small group discussions. After his formal address to delegates & guests, Bob showcased the NSCG’s research into using virtual reality for training with a constant line-up of delegates waiting to wear the VR headset. All were gob-smacked at the potential.

I must also commend others who stepped forward to serve as instructors and as guest speakers. It resulted in three days jam-packed full of solid-fuel knowledge and experience. A big thanks to the many industry sponsors and exhibitors who supported the event too. Special thanks go to Alan Murphy and his team at Blaze King. The event was hosted in Penticton, Blaze King’s home in Canada. This manufacturer wrapped their arms around this event to make it their own. They jumped at the opportunity to act as the event’s platinum-level sponsor. They hosted both a factory tour and barbecue luncheon for delegates. Mr. Murphy delivered the keynote address, and Dennis Klan; Blaze King’s Quality Control & Technical Service Manager also led a session on understanding catalytic combustion technology.

 

In the end, the goal with this event was to emulate what the NCSG was already doing for its membership. We followed the suggested Field of Dreams mantra; “Build it, and they will come…” As one of the many event planners, there are no sweeter words you will hear than “We will definitely be back next year!” We heard this from our members. We heard it from our guest speakers. And we heard it from our sponsors & exhibitors.

 

We look forward to seeing all of you again in 2026 in Winnipeg, Manitoba!

 

Written by Dalton Hooker

 

WETT Director / WETBC Director

 

In the world of wood heat, the Blaze King name is legendary. They have hundreds of dealers all over North America. They even have dealers in New Zealand and Japan. While it might seem like they have been around forever, the company only got its start in 1977. It quickly carved out a cult following by producing their rock-solid, oversized free-standing King woodstove.

 

The firebox on this massive stove could gobble up 80 lbs of wood yet burn efficiently all night long thanks to catalytic combustion technology. Setting the appliance’s thermostat then allows the operator to dial down heat output while extending burn time up to a whopping 40 hours on a single load of wood!   

 

It proved popular with rural, off-grid customers looking for a reliable yet efficient whole-home heating solution. The ability to reload the stove first thing in the morning, knowing it will still be burning after a long day’s work, was very attractive. Rural homeowners swear by these stoves. They wonder why you would want to use anything else.

 

Alan wholeheartedly agrees saying, “Heating with wood is more than just comfort. It’s about home security, independence, and peace-of-mind. In the event of a power outage, it feels good knowing you have a wood stove ready to keep you safe and warm when you need it most”. 

While the brand was built on the King stove, the smaller Princess stove added in 1992 also proved to be a massive hit. The Princess was also offered as fireplace insert. In later years, Blaze King would expand their line-up by adding a full line of traditional & contemporary designs including the Ashford, Scirocco, Chinook, and Boxer. 

 

Later this year, they are set to release the Sentry Wood Stove. This will be the first in a line of more affordable wood stoves that maintain the core values they are known for. And now, they are finally about to introduce their first ever factory-built fireplace using the same tried and tested technology. The F31 Wood Fireplace is scheduled to hit dealer showrooms in 2026.

 

For information on Blaze King Industries, visit their website at: www.blazeking.com.

 

There will also be networking opportunities and educational seminars, as well as an exclusive exhibition hall showcasing systems and products from leading manufacturers and distributers in the country.

 

Click here to learn more: https://www.wettinc.ca/wett-2025-conference

 

Across rural Canada, many homeowners rely on solid-fuel appliances such as wood stoves and fireplaces for primary or supplementary heat — and often as a backup during power outages. These heating systems are not only essential for comfort and safety but also connect us to a tradition of gathering around the fire that spans generations.

 

But with warmth comes responsibility.

 

Performing routine inspections & maintenance is absolutely required to burn wood safely and responsibly. A clean and well-maintained chimney ensures better performance and significantly reduces the risk of a dangerous chimney fire.

 

That’s where Canada’s certified chimney sweeps come in. These professionals are trained to identify potential issues, improve system efficiency, and most importantly, help protect homes and families.

 

Whether you burn wood for heat, cooking, or simply the atmosphere, May 1st is a perfect reminder to book your annual inspection and sweep. Let’s keep this age-old tradition alive — safely and responsibly.

 

 

This May 1st, support Sweep’s Day and thank your local certified chimney sweep.