MLAs Anderson and Conroy say funding will support local volunteer fire departments in the Kootenays, keeping people safe
NELSON – New Democrat MLAs Brittny Anderson and Katrine Conroy say that funding announced today will help local fire departments to protect more people and structures in the community.
“In small communities, neighbours support each other in so many ways, including as part of our volunteer and composite fire departments,” said Brittny Anderson, MLA for Nelson-Creston. “This funding will help provide the equipment and training that our firefighters need so they can continue to keep people, homes, and businesses safe.”
The following local fire departments are receiving funding:
- Central Kootenay Regional District – Fire Services Training Program 2024, $473,602
- Regional partners: Balfour-Harrop, Beasley, Blewett, Crescent Valley, Kaslo, North Shore, Ootischenia, Pass Creek, Passmore, Riondel, Robson, Slocan, Tarry’s, Winlaw, Yahk-Kingsate, and Ymir
- Nelson – Fire Officer 1 Training and Rapid Intervention Firefighter Safety Devices, $30,000
- Salmo – Fire Department Equipment Renewal, $29,343.43
“When an emergency like a fire occurs, people want to know that help is on the way,” said Katrine Conroy, MLA for Kootenay West. “By helping smaller fire departments to upgrade their skills, we can make sure they are always ready to jump into action.”
Through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF), the provincial government is providing more than $6.2 million for 122 local projects, benefiting more than 200 volunteer and composite fire departments across B.C. Composite fire departments are those that have a mix of staff and volunteers.
Since 2017, more than $17 million has been provided to volunteer and composite fire departments through the CEPF for additional equipment and training.
Learn More: news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2024EMCR0003-000018