Municipal Matters: Celebrating 125 years of Fire and Emergency Services in Medicine Hat

By Chad Eakins on May 8, 2025.

This year, 2025, marks 125 years of service and dedication to the community for Medicine Hat Fire & Emergency Services. As one of the longest-standing municipal departments in the city, Fire Services has grown alongside Medicine Hat, responding to the residents’ ever-changing needs and playing an important role in shaping the safety and resilience of our community.

The legacy of fire protection in Medicine Hat began in 1900 with a small volunteer brigade and a horse-drawn hose cart. Today, it has evolved into a professional department that responds to emergencies and actively works to prevent them.

Through fire suppression, rescue operations, medical response, fire prevention education, inspections and 911 dispatch services, MHFES is committed to protecting life, property and the environment – 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The department’s growth aligns with the broader objectives of local government, which include providing governance, building safe and viable communities and responding to the needs of residents. MHFES embraces modernization and innovation while staying true to its core values of accountability, integrity, respect, professionalism, caring and teamwork.

Honouring this milestone invites past and current members, as well as the community, to reflect on the many individuals who have served over the past 125 years – the firefighters, dispatchers, inspectors, investigators and the administrative staff, who faced emergencies with courage and showed up for their neighbours in times of need.

It also provides an opportunity to look forward. The next chapter will see continued investment in training, community partnerships, safety initiatives and fast response times for future generations.

Throughout the year, a series of events and exhibits will invite residents to reflect on the department’s rich history and the contributions of its past and present members. We hope you will join us.

2025 anniversary community events

May 30 to June 1 – FireFit Alberta Regional Competition (Stampede Grounds)

June 21 – Open House at Station No. 2 (1303 Trans-Canada Way)

Sept. 13 – Open House at Station No. 1 (401 Parkview Dr.)

Oct. 25 – Firefighter Gala at Co-op Place; tickets go on sale to the public May 12 at https://www.tixx.ca. This event features local dueling pianos, a pipe and drum band, stories from the past 125 years, a silent auction in support of the Firefighters Charitable Foundation, dinner and more.

Chad Eakins is fire chief with Medicine Hat Fire & Emergency Services

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