Media Advisory

Enhanced Fire Protection Service for Lakeside-Timberlea Area

(Thursday, April 20/06)-- District 22 Councillor Reg Rankin today commended the Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency for addressing resident concerns in Timberlea-Lakeside by doubling the weekday and overnight workforce of Station #58 in Lakeside.

Councillor Rankin said a previous redeployment proposal for the entire Western Zone of HRM would have seen the removal of the one career member overnight at Lakeside to augment staff in the daytime during times of uncertain levels of volunteer response.

However, in view Councillor Rankin’s concerns and those of the community, senior fire service management has approved the doubling of staff during weekdays to four firefighters and doubling overnight coverage everyday of the week to two staff members.

“I am pleased that the Fire Service responded so quickly to my concerns and those of the community, and worked with us to find a solution that was acceptable, said Councillor Rankin. “This effort will result in enhanced fire protection service during the daytime in these areas; and, of course, in the after hours, protection will be provided by our volunteers.”

The change, effective April 16, 2006, includes the creation of four career captain positions to oversee staffing issues in what is the busiest rural fire station in HRM. The staff will continue to be supported by an active membership of 40 fully- trained volunteer firefighters. As to the changes put in place for Prospect, Seabright and Bay Road Stations, I am satisfied that the level of coverage will improve.

The redeployment of staff in the Western Zone results in an average of 22 paid fire fighters, in nine stations, during the day, who can immediately respond to a large incident or multiple incidents. Except for Lakeside, all fire department responses in the Western Zone after 4:30 pm are handled by volunteer fire fighters.

–30–

Councillor Reg Rankin
499-3744