Fire & Emergency Services

Elkford Fire and Emergency Services is responsible for coordinating fire protection, rescue and emergency services for the District of Elkford. This department provides fire suppression and rescue services, fire investigations, fire prevention and life safety education, issuance of burning permits and assists with managing the wildfire fuel reduction program in Elkford.

Looking for a backyard burning permit? You'll find one here. 

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

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 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, one brush truck, an Emergency Transportation Unit and a Rescue Unit, fully outfitted with heavy hydraulic rescue tools.

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 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 local assistants to the Fire Commissioner of B.C.  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 ecalla@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 19 years of age.
• Be eligible for employment in Canada.
• Be physically fit and maintain peak fitness levels.
• 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? Apply today at careers@elkford.ca!

Live-In Firefighter Work Experience Program (WEP)

Jumpstart your career in firefighting through the Elkford Fire Department’s new live-in firefighter work experience program (WEP)! In this paid WEP, entry-level firefighters will gain the knowledge and experience needed to succeed—plus enjoy the perks of living, working and playing in the beautiful Wilderness Capital of B.C.

Firefighters in Elkford Fire Department’s WEP will receive 24/7 live-in accommodations as well as remuneration for services in accordance with the firefighting duties performed. These positions offer private, fully furnished dorm rooms with access to free Wi-Fi, washrooms/showers, kitchen facilities, a fully serviced common room and weight room, all within the main fire house/training facility at 2300 Balmer Drive in Elkford.

Under the general direction of the Fire Chief (or the Deputy Chief or Fire Officers), you’ll respond to 911 emergencies as required, maintain the equipment, apparatuses and fire hall, as well as participate in training drills, assist with fire inspections, fire pre-plans, fire investigations, public education and community events. Hours, wages and days off are outlined in available postings at http://elkford.ca/careers/.

Minimum Qualifications:

• NFPA 1001 FF1 & 2
• Driving record that demonstrates responsible and safe driving behaviour
• Visual acuity and peripheral vision in accordance with NFPA 1582
• Normal, unaided hearing in accordance with NFPA 1582
• Must maintain the physical requirements needed to undertake all job duties and tasks
• Must reside at the Elkford Fire Hall
• Willing to undergo a criminal records check
• Willing to work towards certifications for: Fire Officer 1, Incident Safety Officer and or other Firefighting certificates

Preferred Qualifications:

• NFPA 1001 FF 1 & 2
• First Responder level 3
• Air brake endorsement
• Certified wildfire training

Required Attributes:

• Ability to exercise courtesy and tact when dealing with the public
• Ability to manage duties of the position and related stresses efficiently and effectively
• Clear and articulate communication skills, both written and verbal
• Ability to maintain conduct and ethics standards of the organization
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality
• Demonstration of sound judgement in all aspects of the position

Ready to find out more? Contact ecalla@elkford.ca or 250.865.4020.

Contact 

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