Fernie initiates the construction of a specialized fire hall to enhance firefighter safety and response times. The groundbreaking event for the new fire hall at 1500 5th Ave took place on Tuesday in a section of Prentice Park. Firefighters are anticipated to relocate to the new facility by fall 2027. Currently, Fernie firefighters operate from temporary locations at the public works yard, causing delays in response times as they navigate between buildings to access equipment and vehicles.
According to Fire Chief Brendan Morgan, the new fire hall will offer increased space for vehicles, improved training facilities, and a designated area to separate contaminated gear from clean areas where firefighters interact or dine. This separation is crucial as firefighters may carry harmful substances back after responding to incidents. Additionally, the new hall will accommodate an emergency operations center for strategic planning during wildfires and other crises.
The decision to construct the fire hall follows extensive discussions on its location. While some, like resident Bill Sailer, express concerns about the choice of Prentice Park, Mayor Nic Milligan asserts that it is the most suitable site based on size, accessibility, and meeting firefighters’ requirements. The city secured $7 million in funding for the project through the Strategic Priorities Fund, eliminating the need for full borrowing and lessening the financial burden on local taxpayers.
Fernie Fire and Emergency Services, currently staffed with eight career firefighters and 25 paid on-call firefighters, will not immediately increase its career firefighter count with the new facility. Nevertheless, the enhanced infrastructure will enable the department to adapt to Fernie’s growth and evolving community needs.