Maple Ridge, B.C., Nov. 21, 2024 – To enhance public safety and responses, 19 new firefighters were welcomed by the City of Maple Ridge in a graduation ceremony today that also introduced a new all electric response vehicle to the Fire Department’s fleet.
“Our community is growing rapidly and adding these skilled professionals and innovation to our Fire Department represents a significant investment in the safety of our community today and into the future,” said Mayor Ruimy. “This expansion strengthens our emergency response capabilities and introduces a new Fire Prevention Division—a first for Maple Ridge.”
Boosting Fire Suppression, Prevention and Community Safety
Maple Ridge now has 14 firefighters, up from 11, always focused on the core services of fire suppression, representing an around the clock operational boost. Fire Hall 1 will staff a second “due crew” – a two-person team for medical and other specific calls, and the Engine Company at the Fire Hall 4 is staffed with four firefighters, meeting industry standards for fire suppression.
Two new staff will join a newly established Fire Prevention Division which will focus on meeting provincial Fire Safety Act requirements, conducting risk-based assessments, public education and performing fire investigations. These initiatives underscore the City’s dedication to reducing fire risks before they occur.
The 16 new firefighters will fill these new roles with an additional three firefighters replacing retirements from 2023 and 2024. The new hires include four female firefighters, further advancing diversity in the department.
Improved Response and Readiness
The additions will support the City’s positive direction of being closer to achieving the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommended standard for response.
“Firefighting is at the core of our municipal responsibility, and with these additions we’re improving our ability to respond to all calls without compromising our readiness for larger emergencies,” said Fire Chief Dave Samson. “This is a pivotal step forward for Maple Ridge to provide improved services to our residents and keep our community safe.”
Electric Response Vehicle
The City has also added a new all electric response vehicle - ‘Squad 1’ - bringing innovation to the Fire Department fleet as it will be available to respond to operational and medical calls, reducing both the environmental impacts and costs.
The 2024 investment in the Fire Department highlights the City’s commitment to building a safe, sustainable, and resilient community. Funding for these positions were approved in the 2024 Financial Plan earlier this year.
For more information, visit MapleRidge.ca/Fire
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Media Contact
Pardeep Purewal, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications and Public Engagement
T 604 467-4319 C 778-955-4249
E PPurewal@MapleRidge.ca