Fernie Commences Construction of State-of-the-Art Fire Hall for Enhanced Safety and Efficiency
Fernie has officially launched the construction of a specialized fire hall, aimed at providing a safer working environment for firefighters and enabling quicker response times to emergencies. The groundbreaking event for the new fire hall, situated at 1500 5th Ave. within a section of Prentice Park, took place on Tuesday.
According to city officials, the relocation of firefighters to the new facility is scheduled for the fall of 2027. Fire Chief Brendan Morgan highlighted the challenges faced by Fernie firefighters currently operating out of temporary spaces at the public works yard, requiring them to shuttle between buildings to access equipment and vehicles before responding to calls.
Morgan emphasized that the new fire hall will offer expanded vehicle storage, improved training areas, and a segregated space for contaminated gear, ensuring a clear distinction from clean zones where firefighters engage in daily activities. The separation is crucial as firefighters can unknowingly introduce carcinogens and other hazards post-emergency responses.
Additionally, the upgraded facility will incorporate an emergency operations center, facilitating coordinated responses during wildfires and other critical situations. The decision to construct the new fire hall follows extensive deliberations regarding its placement. City authorities stress the necessity for a modern facility to address current and future emergency demands, particularly amid community expansion and recurring wildfire threats.
While some residents, including Bill Sailer, have expressed reservations about the chosen location within Prentice Park, Mayor Nic Milligan reaffirmed the council’s confidence in the decision. Despite considering alternative sites, the council concluded that Prentice Park offers the optimal combination of space, accessibility, and suitability for meeting firefighters’ requirements.
Securing a $7 million grant from the Strategic Priorities Fund, Fernie averted the need for a full borrowing bylaw to finance the fire hall, thereby lessening the financial burden on local taxpayers. With Fernie Fire and Emergency Services currently comprising eight career firefighters and 25 paid on-call firefighters, the new facility is envisioned to enhance preparedness for future developments in the growing community.
Fire Chief Morgan emphasized that while immediate plans do not involve hiring more career firefighters, the new fire hall will equip the department to adapt to the evolving needs of Fernie as the community evolves.
