Calgary

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Fire and Rescue

Key information on Calgary's fire protection and rescue services, including fire safety tips.

Sections

1. Overview of Fire and Rescue Services in Calgary

The Calgary Fire Department (CFD) is the primary organization responsible for fire and rescue services in the city. It is a professional, full-time service that operates 24/7 to ensure the safety of residents, visitors, and property. The CFD provides a wide range of services, including:

  • Fire suppression: Responding to and extinguishing fires in residential, commercial, and industrial areas.
  • Emergency medical response: Assisting with medical emergencies in collaboration with Alberta Health Services (AHS).
  • Rescue operations: Handling vehicle extrications, water rescues, high-angle rescues, and hazardous material incidents.
  • Fire prevention and education: Conducting inspections, enforcing fire codes, and offering public education programs.
  • Disaster response: Assisting during large-scale emergencies like floods or wildfires.

The CFD operates out of 42 fire stations strategically located across Calgary to ensure rapid response times.

2. Response Times

The Calgary Fire Department aims to meet the following response time targets:

  • First arriving unit: Within 7 minutes for 90% of emergency calls.
  • Full response team: Within 11 minutes for 90% of emergency calls.

These targets are in line with international standards for urban fire services. However, response times may vary depending on traffic, weather, and the location of the incident.

3. Costs for Fire and Rescue Services

In Calgary, most fire and rescue services are funded through municipal taxes, meaning there are no direct costs for emergency fire suppression or rescue services for residents or visitors. However, there are some exceptions:

  • False alarms: If a fire alarm system is triggered without an actual emergency, the property owner may be charged a fee. For example:

    • First false alarm: No charge.
    • Second false alarm: Approximately $300.
    • Subsequent false alarms: Fees increase incrementally.

  • Non-emergency services: Certain non-emergency services, such as fire inspections for businesses or permits for controlled burns, may have associated fees. These costs vary depending on the service.

  • Ambulance services: If the fire department responds to a medical emergency and an ambulance is required, Alberta Health Services (AHS) may charge a fee for ambulance transport. As of 2023, the cost is approximately $250 for transport plus $2 per kilometer. This fee is often covered by health insurance.

4. Steps to Follow During Emergencies

If you encounter a fire or require rescue services in Calgary, follow these steps:

Fire Emergency

  1. Evacuate immediately: Leave the building or area as quickly and safely as possible. Do not use elevators.
  2. Call 9-1-1: Dial 911 to report the fire. Provide the operator with:
    • Your location (address or nearest landmark).
    • Details about the fire (e.g., size, type, and whether anyone is trapped).
  3. Stay out: Do not re-enter the building until firefighters declare it safe.
  4. Assist responders: If safe, provide information to firefighters about the building layout or any missing persons.

Medical Emergency

  1. Call 911 and describe the situation.
  2. Follow the dispatcherโ€™s instructions while waiting for first responders.
  3. If trained, provide first aid or CPR until help arrives.

Hazardous Material Incident

  1. Evacuate the area and avoid contact with the substance.
  2. Call 911 and provide details about the material (if known).
  3. Follow instructions from emergency personnel.

Severe Weather or Natural Disaster

  • Calgary is prone to flooding and severe storms. In such cases, monitor local alerts via the cityโ€™s website or the Alberta Emergency Alert system.
  • Follow evacuation orders and seek shelter in designated safe areas.

5. Local Considerations

Fire Safety Regulations

  • Calgary enforces strict fire codes to ensure public safety. For example:
    • Smoke alarms are mandatory in all residential properties.
    • Fire extinguishers are recommended for homes and businesses.
    • Open-air fires (e.g., fire pits) require a permit from the city.

Fire Pits and Barbecues

  • Backyard fire pits are allowed but must comply with city bylaws:
    • Fire pits must be at least 2 meters away from buildings, fences, or trees.
    • Fires must not exceed 1 meter in height.
    • Only clean, dry wood or charcoal can be burned.
    • Permits are not required for residential fire pits, but you must follow the rules to avoid fines.

Wildfire Risk

  • Calgary is located near forested areas, so wildfire risk is a concern during dry seasons. Stay informed about fire bans and restrictions, which are issued by the city or province during high-risk periods.

Community Safety Programs

  • The CFD offers free fire safety education programs for residents, including:
    • Home Safety Visits: Firefighters visit homes to check smoke alarms and provide safety tips.
    • Fire Cadet Program: A youth program for those interested in firefighting careers.

Emergency Preparedness

  • The City of Calgary encourages residents and visitors to prepare an emergency kit with essentials like water, food, flashlights, and first aid supplies. Visit the cityโ€™s website for a detailed checklist.

6. Key Contacts and Resources

  • Emergency Services: Dial 911 for fire, police, or medical emergencies.
  • Non-Emergency Fire Inquiries: Call the Calgary Fire Department at 311 (within Calgary) or 403-268-2489 (outside Calgary).
  • Fire Permits and Inspections: Visit the City of Calgaryโ€™s website at calgary.ca or call 311.
  • Alberta Emergency Alert: Download the app or visit emergencyalert.alberta.ca for real-time updates on emergencies.

7. Fire Stations and Notable Sites

  • Calgaryโ€™s fire stations are distributed across the city for optimal coverage. Some notable stations include:

    • Station 1 (Downtown): Located at 450 1st Street SE, this is the headquarters and one of the busiest stations.
    • Station 16 (Airport): Specializes in aircraft rescue and firefighting.
    • Station 23 (Foothills): Equipped for wildland firefighting and water rescues.

  • Calgary Firefighters Museum: Located at 4124 11th Street SE, this museum showcases the history of firefighting in Calgary and is a great educational resource.

8. Cultural and Practical Tips

  • Respect fire bans: During dry seasons, fire bans are strictly enforced. Ignoring them can result in fines of up to $10,000.
  • Be cautious with candles and heaters: Many residential fires in Calgary are caused by unattended candles or improperly used space heaters.
  • Learn basic fire safety phrases: If English is not your first language, familiarize yourself with key phrases like โ€œFire!โ€ or โ€œHelp!โ€ to communicate during emergencies.

By understanding Calgaryโ€™s fire and rescue services, you can feel confident about your safety while visiting or living in the city. Always prioritize preparedness and follow local regulations to ensure a safe experience.