Province bolsters firefighter support with $1-million investment

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on April 4, 2025.

newsdesk@medicinehatnews.com

The provincial government says all municipalities, First Nations and Métis settlements in Alberta are eligible to apply for new funding through the Fire Service Training Program Grant.

Wednesday the province announced it would be investing an additional $1 million that will be distributed to more than 65 communities to support local firefighter training efforts in a wide range of situations, including ice water rescues and toxic material responses.

“Firefighters put their lives on the line to protect us, and we’re making sure they have the training they need to do their jobs safely and effectively,” said Ric McIver, minister of municipal affairs. “Well-trained fire services are essential to keeping our communities safe, and these grant investments will help firefighters respond with skill and confidence when Albertas need them most.”

The province says it’s critical that local firefighters receive training reflective of the industry’s best standards, as they are often the first to respond in an emergency situation.

The Alberta Fire Chiefs Association says the investment in training is essential to ensure all firefighters are prepared to meet the growing demands of emergency responses.

“These grants will directly support the safety and readiness of fire services across Alberta’s communities,” said chief Randy Schroeder, president AFCA.

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