Fire Department's Annual Report
It is my pleasure to submit the City of Chilliwack Fire Department's Annual Report for the year ending 31 December 2007.
The Chilliwack Fire Department responded to over 2500 calls for service in 2007, an increase of 13% from the previous year. Fire losses for the year totalled $5.6 million and there were 22 fire related injuries and one fire death.
The Fire Department and the City of Chilliwack have made substantial headway in emergency preparedness with the implementation of a dedicated senior fire officer to that function in 2006. In the future, resources will be directed towards involving the public and local business through education in preparing and planning for unforeseen emergencies.
The Fire Prevention Branch was again very active and was able to involve over 6000 persons in fire and life safety programs, in keeping with our commitment to becoming more proactive in the prevention of fires. Working with local interests and Council, the Fire Department spearheaded the implementation of a fire sprinkler bylaw which is a major step towards ensuring the safety of residents in their homes, where the greatest number of fire related injuries and deaths occur.
The training division was again very busy in 2007 with additional training programs focusing on areas of firefighter safety on the fireground. The Department's training program is extensive; being responsible for the education of over 150 members, including both career and paid-on call members. Paid-on call firefighters comprise the bulk of our fire fighting forces and their dedication and professionalism during training and emergencies is exceptional.
The Fire Department was actively involved in community events and in supporting local charities; the Firefighters Charitable Society made contributions to the BC Burn Fund and gave out eight bursaries to deserving local students to help them with their post secondary education.
As always, the support of Mayor and Council, the City's management team, community service groups, local business and the families and employers of our paid-on call members has been essential to our success as a fire department and we are very grateful for that support.
"Proudly Senling Our Community"
Richard Ryall
Chilliwack Fire Chief
Download the full 31 page report below.
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