Volunteer and composite fire departments in the region are receiving close to half a million dollars in provincial funding to support training and equipment upgrades.
The funding, according to the province, aims to help improve emergency response and keep communities safer.
“Fire crews respond to emergencies in every corner of the RDCK, helping save lives, land, and homes,” said Brittny Anderson, MLA for Kootenay Central, in a press release.
“Nearly $500,000 for equipment upgrades and training will help ensure that these amazing volunteers are better supported to serve our communities in the Kootenays.”
The Regional District of Central Kootenay is receiving $480,000 for breathing apparatus, fire equipment and firefighter training.
The Castlegar Fire Department is also getting just under $12,000 for firefighter training and personal protective equipment.
Steve Morissette, MLA for Kootenay-Monashee, said the funding will support volunteer first responders who play a critical role in many communities.
“I can’t thank volunteer first responders, like firefighters, enough for all they do in our community,” he said.
“Giving a boost to these essential services so they can improve training capacity and make sure to have up to date equipment allows for more safety in our communities and for our volunteers.”
The province said the funding is being provided through the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness’s Community Emergency Preparedness Fund, which is investing nearly $4 million in volunteer and composite fire departments across the province.
Since 2017, the fund has provided more than $29 million, supporting more than 500 projects.
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