Dreaming of becoming a firefighter? Our Youth Firefighter Programs provide young people with an exciting opportunity to learn about the fire service through hands-on activities, teamwork, leadership development, and fire safety education. Participants gain valuable skills, build confidence, and experience the dedication, discipline, and camaraderie that are at the heart of the fire service. Whether exploring a future career in emergency services or simply looking for a unique challenge, this program is a great way to get involved and make lasting connections in the community.
The New Westminster Youth Firefighter Program (YFFP) is a collaborative initiative between The Justice Institute of B.C. (JIBC), New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services (NWFRS), City of New Westminster Youth Services, and the City of New Westminster. The YFFP is geared for students in grades 10 - 12 interested in learning more about the fire service as a potential career. This program usually runs in July.
This unique program aims to place students in a fire academy-like situation featuring classroom review, workplace experience, and live-fire combat. The program is an intensive 5 day program where the students will experience much of what a firefighter would experience, but in a condensed format. Students will receive instruction on personal protective equipment, basic firefighting skills, technical rope rescue, auto-extrication skills, live fire scenarios and fire dynamics.”
Camp Ignite is a youth firefighting mentorship program for girls in grades 11 and 12. This is a 4-day and 3-night program hosted by regional fire departments and overseen by career female firefighters. A variety of activities is planned each day and night that help build confidence, teamwork skills, and leadership abilities. New Westminster Fire & Rescue Services has previously hosted and continues to support Camp Ignite since its founding year in 2011.
Thank you to everyone who attended our annual Open House on Saturday, October 3, 2026 at Fire Hall #1 @ 1 East 6th Ave. See you again next year!
Fire Prevention Week October 4-10, 2026
New Westminster Fire & Rescue Department Reminds Residents: Safe Charging Is a Superpower. October 4–10, 2026 was Fire Prevention Week™, and the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) theme was: “Charge into Fire Safety™: Safe Charging Is a Superpower.”
Why Safe Charging Matters - From phones and laptops to e-bikes and power tools, many of the devices we rely on everyday use lithium-ion batteries. While efficient and powerful, these batteries can overheat, catch fire, or even explode if damaged or charged improperly.
Follow these simple steps to reduce fire risk:
Use the right charger Always use the cord and charger that came with your device—or one approved by the manufacturer.
Charge on hard surfaces Place devices on a table or desk while charging. Avoid beds, couches, or under pillows where heat can build up.
Watch for warning signs Stop using a device if it feels very hot, swells, smokes, or smells unusual.
Don’t overcharge Unplug devices once they are fully charged to prevent overheating and battery stress.
Charge larger devices safely Charge e-bikes, scooters, and power tools outside and away from exits to prevent fast-spreading fires indoors.
Be cautious when traveling Keep devices visible while charging on planes. Never charge e-cigarettes or vapes in flight.
