About Elkford’s Fire Department

The Elkford Fire Department has a full-time Fire Chief and Deputy Fire Chief who oversee up to 30 paid-on-call fire fighters that respond to approximately 160 calls annually from a centralized fire station. The fire station is located at 2300 Balmer Drive—next door to the RCMP detachment office—and it also serves as Station 405 of the British Columbia Ambulance Service. The fire hall is equipped with two pumper trucks, one ladder truck and one brush truck.

Every year, the Elkford Fire Department promotes fire and general safety in the community through a system of fire inspections and public safety initiatives. The District of Elkford's Fire and Emergency Services department also supports emergency management, Emergency Support Services (ESS) and Search and Rescue (SAR). 

History of Elkford Fire and Emergency Services

Established in 1971, the first fire rescue team in Elkford was an all-female brigade of volunteers who bravely fought fires while their husbands worked at the coal mines. Since then, the Elkford Fire Department has evolved to include a diverse array of highly trained brothers and sisters who spring into action every time the alarm sounds. 

In 2019, the District of Elkford was recognized by FireSmart Canada for its proactive efforts in protecting the community from wildfire. The District of Elkford was awarded the Community Protection Achievement Certificate, highlighting the ongoing efforts in being a resilient FireSmart community.

Book Your Fire Inspection

The Director and Deputy Director of Fire and Emergency Services are designated fire inspectors.  As required by the Fire Services Act, the Director and Deputy carry out a system of regular inspections of businesses and facilities in the District of Elkford. These inspections are usually scheduled in advance and are intended to assist you in meeting the requirements of the British Columbia Fire Code.

To schedule an inspection, contact 250.865.4020 or esimmons@elkford.ca. 
 

Become a Paid-On-Call Firefighter!

Are you an aspiring firefighter? Do you dream of making a difference in your community and in the lives of others?

Join our team as a paid-on-call firefighter! We are men and women, from all walks of life, who are guided by strong core values, a commitment to safety, a collaborative work culture and a promise to provide the mountain community of Elkford with lifesaving emergency services that are second-to-none. In turn, we provide our firefighters with everything needed to succeed.

Among other requirements, to be considered as a paid-on-call firefighter for the District of Elkford, all candidates must:

• Demonstrate dedication to helping others and serving your community.
• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Be eligible for employment in Canada.
• Be physically fit and maintain a healthy lifestyle
• Reside within the lesser of a 10-minute (or eight kilometre) response time of the Fire Hall.
• Be honest, reliable and self-motivated.
• Collaborate well and work well on a team.
• Be able to take direction and be committed to continual learning.
• Maintain a valid B.C. Driver’s licence of a class required by the apparatus in the Fire Department fleet.

As a paid-on-call firefighter for the District of Elkford, you’ll receive:

• Competitive wages.
• Paid training.
• Reimbursement for travel and mileage.
• Service recognition.
• Clothing, uniforms and equipment.
• Inclusion in the Health & Wellness program.
• Other benefits and perks!

Ready to join us? You'll need to fill these out:

• Elkford Fire Rescue Paid-On-Call Firefighter Application Form
• Elkford Fire Rescue Paid-On-Call Firefighter Routine Driver's and Medical Examination Report

Once you've completed your application forms, apply at careers@elkford.ca! 

Contact Elkford's Fire Department

In the event of an emergency, dial 9-1-1. In non-emergency situations, contact 250.865.4020 or esimmons@elkford.ca.