Safety & Training Division

A Modern Fire and Rescue Service

New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services resembles its forbearers in its fierce pride and efficiency, but here all resemblance ends. Today’s Fire and Rescue Services is equipped with the best fire fighting equipment modern technology can devise. The methods of fire suppression are completely different. The Hyack’s main concern at a fire was to use as much water as possible; whereas today, we endeavour to use as little water as possible and to minimize water damage.

Each of the three City fire halls is equipped with modern apparatus capable of pumping 1500 - 1750 gallons per minute of water or a foam/water combination. Any City location can be reached by these trucks in a matter of minutes.

New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services provides rescue and safety service 24 hours a day for the residents of New Westminster. Each firefighter is fully trained in:

• First Responder
• Extrication
• Automatic External Defibrillators
• High Angle Rescue
• Confined Space Rescue
• CPR
• Hazardous Materials

High Angle Rescue Fire Protection is a primary objective of the department. The Fire Protection Division consists of the Manager of Fire Safety and several Fire Inspector positions. Fire Protection enforces the Fire Commissioner’s Act, National Fire Code and applicable sections of the British Columbia Building Code. Fire and Life Safety inspections are conducted and close liaison is maintained with other City Departments. Fire suppression companies conduct regular inspections and familiarization tours of industrial, commercial and multi-family buildings.

A firefighter today must be a skilled, competent professional, and able to deal with any kind of emergency. New Westminster Fire and Rescue employees are continually upgrading their skills in order to provide our citizens with the most modern fire suppression and prevention techniques, as well as medical and rescue techniques, hazardous materials response and emergency procedures.

Throughout your career as a firefighter, your responsibilities will include:

• Fire Suppression and Hazardous Materials Response
• Rescue and Medical Emergencies
• Fire Hall and Equipment Maintenance
• Public Education
• Technical Rope Rescue
• Swift Water Rescue

In addition, firefighters also spend many hours together performing routine maintenance at the fire hall. For this reason, the ability to follow directions, work as a team, and get along well with others is essential.

Firefighting is a challenging and rewarding career. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a New Westminster Firefighter, the minimum and preferred qualifications listed in this booklet will help you determine the training necessary to enhance your chances of selection.

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