Loading, about as long as a coffee at the Lion’s Head.
Loading, about as long as a coffee at the Lion’s Head.
Fires, rescues, motor vehicle incidents, and first-responder medical calls. Plus the prevention work that keeps it from getting that far.
Fire is in the name, but a typical week can include far more than that. The Castlegar Fire Department responds to structure and wildland fires, motor vehicle incidents (MVA/MVI), first-responder medical calls alongside BC Emergency Health Services, hazardous materials calls, fire alarms, aircraft emergencies, and rescues. Like most BC fire services, Castlegar Fire works with neighbouring departments through regional mutual-aid arrangements so the closest available resource can respond.
The main hall is centrally located at 2161 6th Avenue, with a satellite station at the West Kootenay Regional Airport for aircraft emergencies and faster response to the airport and surrounding area.
The department goes beyond responding to calls. Crews provide fire prevention and safety education through visits to schools, senior facilities, daycares, and local businesses. They also perform commercial fire inspections to keep public spaces safe.
Tip
Free smoke alarm and home safety advice
The department accepts applications for paid-on-call volunteer firefighters year-round. Volunteers are trained to respond to a variety of emergency calls, including structure fires, motor vehicle incidents, and medical calls. If you’ve ever wondered whether this is for you, the next step is a five-minute phone call to the non-emergency line at 250-365-3266 or an email to nahlefeld@castlegar.ca asking what current recruitment looks like. No application paperwork required to ask.
During wildfire season, BC Wildfire Service may impose regional or provincial burn bans that override local practices. Check the current BC fire bans and restrictions before any open burning.
Still need help?
Faster than calling for non-urgent issues. We respond within one business day.