24/7 Protection — We Are Always Ready

Powell River Fire Rescue provides critical fire suppression, rescue, vehicle extrication, hazardous materials (HazMat) response, technical rescue, and EMS first response to every resident and visitor—24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Because emergencies don’t wait, we don’t either. We also serve adjacent communities through mutual aid — extending our reach when extra resources are needed.

Why Staffing Matters — The IAFF GIS Study Speaks Volumes

A recent Geographic Information Systems (GIS) study by the IAFF provides powerful evidence about how staffing levels, station placement, and response times affect public safety. By analyzing response coverage, mapping gaps, and modelling risk across neighbourhoods, that study shows:

• Areas of increased risk where response times may stretch unacceptably long

• Station coverage overlap and gaps that could be mitigated with more resources

• Data-driven justification for adding personnel so we can reduce risk and save lives

Our Case for Increased Staffing

To maintain the level of service our community deserves, and to meet the challenges shown in the GIS analysis, Local 1298 is advocating for:

1. More fire fighters per shift — ensuring sufficient personnel respond promptly to maximize the preservation of life and property.

2. Specialized roles and training — for HazMat, technical rescue, and advanced life support

3. Equipment upgrades and replacement — so our teams have modern tools, not outdated gear

4. Improved station deployment — aligning with growth patterns and high-risk zones

5. Sustainable funding — to ensure our staffing improvements persist, not fade

With stronger staffing, we can:

• Lower response times across all districts

• Improve fire suppression effectiveness

• Increase coverage for medical emergencies

• Better support mutual aid operations

• Enhance firefighter safety, training, and wellness

How You Can Support Us

Community voices matter. You can:

• Write or call your city councillor and ask them to support increased fire staffing
  

• Share and promote the IAFF GIS study publicly — help others see the data
  

• Attend public meetings or consultations on municipal emergency services
  

• Partner with us: community groups, insurance agencies, and businesses all benefit when fire service is strong