More than 130 projects for more than 230 volunteer and composite fire departments, including six in the East Kootenay, will receive funding through new training and equipment to strengthen emergency response.

Through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF), the province is providing more than $9 million, which will benefit more than 230 fire departments in the province that are wholly or partially staffed with volunteer firefighters.

This funding will help build the capacity of volunteer and composite fire departments to prepare and respond to emergencies through the purchase of new or replacement equipment and the expansion of firefighter training. Composite fire departments are those that have a mix of paid staff and volunteers.

East Kootenay fire departments receiving funds:

Elkford – $40,000 for equipment modernization;

Fernie – $40,000 for fire training and equipment replacement;

Invermere -$40,000 for firefighter survival training and equipment;

Radium Hot Springs – $28,007 for Wildland personal protective equipment.

Regional District of East Kootenay Rural Fire Services: – $308,141 for equipment, training and personal protective equipment;

Yaq?it ?a·knuq?i ‘it (Tobacco Plains) – $40,000 for fire department equipment and training.

“During an emergency, people rely on volunteer firefighters and community fire crews to keep their loved ones and homes safe,” said Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. “By providing funding for equipment and training, we’re strengthening local firefighting capabilities so that people in rural and remote communities who depend on volunteer or partial volunteer fire departments are safer and better protected.”

“Volunteer and composite fire departments are a cornerstone of our emergency response system, especially in rural and remote communities where they are often the first line of defence,” said Garry Begg, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General.

“This funding will help ensure these dedicated first responders have the tools and training they need to keep people safe. By investing in the capabilities of our local fire departments, we are helping protect communities across the province.”

e-KNOW file photo

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