Firefighters from around the Kootenays will converge in Cranbrook this weekend for some training ahead of wildfire season.
City officials said there will be some activity in several neighbourhoods as Cranbrook Fire & Emergency Services (CFES) hosts engine boss training on Saturday.
“Residents will notice a significant increase in the number of fire apparatus from other departments travelling around the community with their lights on, as they participate in this training,” said the city.
Training will be focused on the River’s Crossing (formerly Shadow Mountain), 23rd Street South at 13th Avenue South and the Jim Smith Lake areas.
“The training that we will see across our community this weekend is a direct result of the need for local fire departments to work seamlessly within the provincial wildfire response system,” said Scott Driver, CFES Director.
Driver said the previous year’s fire season highlighted the importance of solid coordination.
“We only must look back to last summer to recall a time when additional resources were required to support the St. Mary’s River Wildfire response,” said Driver.
“Our crews need to be trained to work together during fire season to keep each other safe as responders, and to increase the capacity to protect our communities.”
Crews will be using fire hydrants as part of the training exercises, so the surrounding properties may experience some cloudy water. You can fix the issue by running your cold water tap until it comes out clear.
City officials said the training exercises are only part of the equation, as fire safety is everyone’s responsibility.
“It is important to remember that being Firesmart requires participation from governments, first responders and property owners,” said the City.
“No single agency is going to protect everyone from wildfires. Property owners have an important role to play in protecting their homes from wildfire.”
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