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Calgary Fire Department
Calgary Fire Department
Calgary Fire Department
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The Calgary Fire Department (CFD) provides fire services for the city of Calgary, Alberta.

Key Information

The department was created on 25 August 1885 as the Calgary Hook, Ladder and Bucket Corps.

As of October 2024, the department has 43 stations. The departments employs over 1,500 personnel in both operational and support roles. Their headquarters is located at 4144 11th Street SE.

History

[edit]

The department was created on 25 August 1885 as the Calgary Hook, Ladder and Bucket Corps and a chemical engine was ordered soon after. The first Captain was George Constantine. Prior to the formation of the Corps, wells had been dug throughout the town in 1884 at the recommendation of George Murdoch, Mayor of the Town of Calgary. In November 1886, Calgary experienced a conflagration, which would become to be known as the Calgary Fire of 1886. Before the fire there was much disorder in the town due to both George Murdoch and James Riley claiming to be and acting as Mayor. This resulted in a slow response to the fire which can be attributed to the absence of a functioning local government. As neither George Murdoch or James Reilly was capable of effectively governing the town, the newly ordered chemical engine was held in the Canadian Pacific Railway storage yard due to lack of payment. Members of the department broke into the CPR storage yard on the day of the fire to retrieve the engine. Later that month a meeting was held which saw Steve Jarrett be elected as the first chief and Bob Ogburn as Assistant Chief.[1] May 1887 saw the opening of Calgary's first fire hall: which had been recommended at the meeting in November 1886, and was approved by Town Council shortly after.[1]

In 1887, following a disagreement between Town Council and the current fire brigade, current Chief Frank Dick and his members resigned. They sold their furniture at the fire hall and donated the proceeded to the hospital. Following the resignation of the brigade, the Mayor and Council proceeded to appoint a high salaried chief and organize a brigade. The new brigade consisted of the Mayor and Council and would-be fire-fighters. When it came to a serious fire, they weren't well organized and in a short time the citizens of Calgary were calling for the reinstatement of the old brigade.[2]

A wagon drawn by two horses, with six fireman and one policeman, outside a brick building, Fire Station No. 7
Firemen and wagon c. 1913-1919 outside former Fire Station No. 7, demolished in 1973, at 16th Avenue and 1st Street NW. The only known person is James Butt, second from left, top row.

The reinstatement occurred on 23 July 1889, when a meeting was held and a decision was agreed upon by the two bodies to have the regular brigade again take charge. The hall and appliances were accordingly turned over to the original brigade.[2]

In January 1890, the brigade began to look to purchase band instruments. After receiving instruments, uniforms, music stands, etc. from a Mr. D. W. Marsh a band was organised. The band carried on with varied success under different leaders for a number of years.[3]

In June 1897, a serious flood occurred and the department was called out to rescue residents on the water front. For their services the council gave the department Can$75 .[4]

1901 saw the department hold its first church parade. New uniforms were purchased for the band at a cost of about Can$500. During the visit of the Duke and Duchess of York during this year, the department acted as a special police. They had their hall elaborately decorated but the Duke and Duchess did not see it.[5]

Prior to 1909, it was a volunteer fire department. In 1909, 40 full-time firefighters were hired.[6] In 1910, it purchased its first motorized fire truck.[7]

Organization

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Fire Suppression Staff

[edit]

Chief Officers

[edit]

The Fire Service uses the term "Chief Officer" to describe individuals who are in a Chief role. These "Chief Officers" are responsible for overseeing management functions as well as supervising fire operations and other services. In the Calgary Fire Department, the Chief Officers are:

  • Fire Chief – One Chief Officer oversees the entire Calgary Fire Department (CFD)
  • Deputy Chief/Manager – Five Chief Officers oversee the individual divisions of the CFD. These divisions are:
    • Operations (Deputy Chief)
    • Operations Support (Deputy Chief)
    • Risk Management (Deputy Chief)
    • Organization Effectiveness & Engagement (Deputy Chief)
    • Workforce Support (Manager)
    • Business Support (Manager)
    • Respect & Inclusion (Leader)
    • Corporate Consultant
  • Assistant Deputy Chief – They are tasked to Fire Rescue Services and the remainder of the Assistant Deputy Chiefs are deployed to other divisions where needed.
  • Battalion Chief – Firefighters work on a four platoon (shift) system (A, B, C, & D). Each platoon is overseen by a Battalion Chief, so in total there are four Battalion Chiefs.
  • District Chief – The city is divided into 6 districts. Each platoon within a district is supervised by a District Chief, therefore there are 6 District Chiefs at any given time (one in each district) and 24 in total. District chiefs are now classified as a number rather than geographical location(Changed in 2023)

Company officers

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Company officers are in charge of each crew. Company officers include:

  • Fire Captain – each fire engine (pumper truck) is supervised by a fire captain on each platoon. As there is an engine in each fire hall, the captain is in charge of the fire hall as well.
  • Fire Lieutenant – every other fire apparatus is supervised by a lieutenant. These include aerial trucks, rescue trucks, hazmat trucks, etc. Every hall has an engine, but only select halls have other apparatus, such as these.

Firefighters

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Firefighters are the main workforce of the fire department. They include:

  • Senior Firefighter – one on each Fire Engine (pumper truck)
  • Firefighter – drive the trucks and ride in the back
  • Probationary Firefighter – placed on Fire Engines as needed, ride in the back with the Senior Firefighter

Support Staff

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The Fire Department relies on numerous uniformed day staff to fill various roles. 255 local, uniformed, support staff members are firefighters who have moved into a different role within the Department. The Fire Marshal oversees the inspectors and investigators within the division of Risk Management. Each Support Section is also run by a Coordinator. These include:

  • Hazardous Materials Coordinator
  • Emergency Management Coordinator
  • Technical Teams Coordinator
  • Recruitment Coordinator
  • Fire Inspections Coordinator
  • Fire Investigation Coordinator
  • Health and Safety Coordinator
  • Community Safety Coordinator
  • Training Coordinators
  • Medical Services Coordinator

Day Staff divisions also have Officers which include:

  • Hazardous Materials Officers
  • Recruitment Officers
  • Health and Safety Officers
  • Community Safety Officers
  • Safety Codes Officers
  • Technical Services Officers
  • Public Information Officer
  • Training Officers
  • Fire Investigators

The Fire Department also employs many other civilian staff in numerous roles.

Rank Insignia

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Fire Suppression Staff

[edit]
CHIEF OFFICERS COMPANY OFFICERS FIREFIGHTERS
Fire Chief Deputy Chief Assistant Deputy Chief Battalion Chief District Chief Fire Captain Fire Lieutenant Senior Firefighter Firefighter Recruit Firefighter
Rank Epaulettes
No Insignia No Insignia Blue Striped Epaulettes (at Training only)

Emergency Medical Technician or Paramedic

[edit]

If a Firefighter, Company Officer, or Chief Officer is also qualified as a Primary Care Paramedic or Advanced Care Paramedic, they wear the Star of Life insignia on their fire helmet.

Support Staff

[edit]
Fire Marshal Support Staff Coordinators Support Staff Officers Fire Inspector I
Rank Epaulettes
Division Name Embroidered Below Stripes (ex: Training, Community Safety, etc.)
Division Name Embroidered Below Stripes (ex: Training, Community Safety, etc.)
"Safety Codes Officer" Embroidered Below Stripe
Notes Head of the Fire Investigations and Inspections Health and Safety Coordinator / Fire Inspections Coordinator / Fire Investigations Coordinator / Hazardous Materials Coordinator / Emergency Management Coordinator / Technical Teams Coordinator / Community Services Coordinator / Wellness and Fitness Coordinator / Recruitment Coordinator / Technical Teams Coordinator / Medical Services Coordinator / Training Coordinator Training Officer / Health and Safety Officer / Hazardous Materials Officer / Emergency Management Officer / Public Information Officer / Community Safety Officer / Assistant to the Medical Director / Technical Services Officer / Fire Inspector II / Shift Investigator

Helmet Colors

[edit]
Fire Suppression Staff Helmet Colour
Chief Officers
  • Fire Chief
  • Deputy Chief
  • Assistant Deputy Chief
  • Battalion Chief
  • District Chief
WHITE
Company Officers
  • Fire Captain
  • Fire Lieutenant
  • Acting Fire Lieutenant
RED
Firefighters
  • Senior Firefighter
  • Firefighter
  • Probationary Firefighter
YELLOW
Support Staff
Fire Marshal
WHITE
Support Staff Coordinators
  • Hazardous Materials Coordinator
  • Emergency Management Coordinator
  • Health and Safety Coordinator
  • Wellness & Fitness Coordinator
  • Recruitment Coordinator
BLUE
Training Officer
RED
Support Staff Officers
  • Health and Safety Officer
  • Hazardous Materials Officer
  • Medical Services Officer
  • Public Information Officer
  • Community Safety Officer
  • Safety Codes Officers (Fire Inspector I and II)
BLUE
Fire Cadet

Observer

BLACK

Fire Stations and Apparatus

[edit]
  • There are 43 fire stations in Calgary, operating 24 hours a day.[8]
  • Apparatus designations are denoted by the station number followed by the apparatus type.
  • Calgary International Airport Crash Rescue previously operated as CFD Station 13 until 1 June 2019, when the airport contracted firefighting services to Pro-Tec Fire Services of Canada.
  • In 2022, City of Calgary announced Station 3 will be located at 1212 11 Ave SE.
  • Apparatus with mounted ladders have been name changed from Aerials to either Ladders (Straight stick ladder) or Towers (Ladder with platform) in 2023.
    Ladder truck at Station 6, Eau Claire, 2013
No. Neighbourhood Engine(s) Ladder Rescue Miscellaneous Address Build Year
Department Headquarters Highfield Safety Chief, Chiefs Vehicle (x2), CFD Community Outreach Car, Haztec 1&3, Hazmat Support, CFD Shuttle Transport, Misc. Vehicle 4144 11 Street S.E. 2017
1 Downtown 1 Engine, Engine 301 1 Ladder, 1 RRV (medical response unit) 450 1 Street S.E. 1973
2 Beltline 2 Engine, Engine 302 2 High Rise Support,

2 Parkade Unit, 2 RRV (Medical Unit),

1010 10 Avenue S.W. 1971
4 Vista Heights 4 Engine 4 Haz-Mat,

4 Air/Light,


1991 18 Avenue N.E. 2004
5 South Calgary 5 Engine District Chief 2

Investigator 1

3129 14 Street S.W. 2012
6 Eau Claire 6 Engine 6 Ladder 6 Aquatic Rescue 6 Boat Tow,

6 Jet Boat

360 8 Street S.W. 2010
7 Mount Pleasant 7 Engine 2708 4 St NW 2017
8 Rosscarrock 8 Engine 8 Ladder 8 Rescue 8 Bush Buggy 1720 45 Street S.W. 1980
9 Ogden 9 Engine 2515 78 Avenue S.E. 1981
10 Briar Hill 10 Engine 10 Technical Rescue 10 Technical Support 1909 16 Avenue N.W. 1998
11 Windsor Park 11 Engine 11 Technical Rescue 11 Technical Support 5506 4 Street S.W. 2014
12 Marlborough 12 Engine, Engine 312 12 Ladder 123 44 Street S.E. 1974
14 Haysboro 14 Engine, Engine 314 9840 Horton Road S.W. 1989
15 Bowness 15 Engine 6328 35 Avenue N.W. 1964
16 Highfield 16 Engine District Chief 1, Battalion Chief, Air Monitoring Vehicle, Pod Truck 1&2, Mobile Command Unit

Flood pod, Hazmat pod (x2), Mobile Fan, 16 Rat-Rail, 16 Hazmat Recovery

4124 11 Street S.E. 2018
17 Varsity 17 Engine 17 Ladder 17 Haz-Mat 3740 32 Avenue N.W. 1971
18 Huntington Hills 18 Engine 415 68 Avenue N.W. 1975
19 Parkland 19 Engine 19 Tower 13807 Parkland Boulevard S.E. 1975
20 Lincoln Park 20 Engine District Chief 3 2800 Peacekeepers Way S.W. 1978
21 Silver Springs 21 Engine 21 Tender 21 Boat 21 Boat Tow District Chief 4 209 Silvergrove Drive N.W. 1978
22 Temple 22 Engine, Engine 322 7199 Temple Drive N.E 1979
23 Southview 23 Engine 23 Rescue 2727 26 Avenue S.E. 1982
24 Cedarbrae 24 Engine 2607 106 Avenue S.W. 1978
25 Foothills 25 Engine 25 Tower 25 Tender 4705 76 Avenue S.E. 1982
26 Midnapore 26 Engine 26 Rescue 450 Midpark Way S.E. 2002
27 Stonegate 27 Engine 27 Rescue 110-11358 Barlow Trail N.E. 2017
28 Edgemont 28 Engine 7925 Edgemont Boulevard N.W. 1987
29 Coach Hill 29 Engine 7027 Coach Hill Road S.W. 1988
30 McKenzie Towne 30 Engine 30 Ladder 30 Boat Tow, 30 Jet Boat 6 McKenzie Towne Gate S.E. 1998
31 Country Hills 31 Engine 31 Tower 31 Bush Buggy,

31 Generator

11955 Country Village Link N.E. 2005
32 Saddle Ridge 32 Engine 32 Ladder District Chief 5 800 Saddletowne Circle N.E. 2010
33 Signal Hill 33 Engine 3800 69 Street S.W. 2008
34 Royal Vista 34 Engine 34 Ladder 34 Rescue 16 Royal Vista Way N.W. 2016
35 Valley Ridge 35 Engine 11280 Valley Ridge Boulevard N.W. 2009
36 Hidden Valley 36 Engine 10071 Hidden Valley Drive N.W. 2001
37 Evergreen 37 Engine 2511 Eversyde Avenue S.W. 2013
38 Cornerstone 38 Engine 128 Cornerstone Hts N.E. 2025
39 Douglas Glen 39 Engine 39 Rescue District Chief 6, Investigator 2, K-9 unit,

39 Hazmat

4199 114 Ave S.E. 2012
40 Symons Valley 40 Engine 12920 Symons Valley Road N.W. 2013
41 Seton 41 Engine 3790 Seton Drive S.E. 2013
42 Tuscany 42 Engine 275 Tuscany Way N.W. 2018
43 Walden 43 Engine 969 Walden Dr SE 2020
44 Livingston 44 Engine 1248 Livingston Way N.E. 2021
45. Belvedere 45 Engine #2000, 250 East Hills Square S.E. 2023 (Temporary)

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Calgary Fire Department

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The Calgary Fire Department (CFD) is the municipal , rescue, and agency serving the city of , , . Founded in 1885 as the Calgary Hook, Ladder and Bucket Corps, it has grown into a comprehensive public safety organization dedicated to preventing fires, responding to emergencies, and educating the community on safety. With 43 fire stations staffed by four platoons of firefighters, the CFD handles a wide range of incidents, including structure fires, medical emergencies, hazardous materials events, vehicle collisions, and specialized rescues such as high-angle, , and water operations. The department's history traces back to the late , amid Calgary's rapid growth as a frontier town, where early volunteer efforts evolved into a force following major fires like the 1886 blaze that reshaped the city's building codes and architecture. By the early , the CFD had adopted motorized vehicles, becoming the first in to do so, and continued expanding with the city's population boom. Today, it employs 1,670 personnel, including 1,475 frontline firefighters, and responded to 87,957 emergency calls in alone, reflecting a 50% increase in demand since 2020 due to urban densification and . Guided by a mission to serve the community through excellence in , , protection, and safety, the CFD emphasizes values of pride, professionalism, teamwork, and respect. It holds international accreditation from the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI), achieved in 1999 as the first Canadian fire service to do so, and renewed for the sixth time in 2024, placing it among only six accredited agencies in . In addition to core firefighting, the department offers public programs like , home safety checks, and community outreach, while maintaining specialized units for hazardous materials response and .

History

Founding and Early Years

The Calgary Fire Department traces its origins to August 25, 1885, when it was established as the volunteer-based Calgary Hook, Ladder and Bucket Corps in the frontier town of , . This initial formation responded to the growing need for organized amid rapid settlement spurred by the Canadian Pacific Railway's arrival, with the corps comprising community volunteers who served without formal compensation or dedicated funding from the municipal government. Early operations relied on rudimentary equipment, including leather buckets for water transport, iron hooks for pulling down burning structures, and extension ladders for access, reflecting the rudimentary state of suppression in a wooden-built settlement prone to blazes. A chemical engine, intended to provide more effective foam-based extinguishing, was ordered shortly after founding but faced delays; due to unpaid municipal debts, it was impounded and stored in a warehouse, highlighting the department's severe resource limitations and dependence on external entities for essential tools. These challenges were exacerbated by the lack of a permanent facility, forcing volunteers to store gear in makeshift locations until the completion of the first fire hall in May 1887 at 122 7th Avenue SE, a modest wooden structure that served as the corps' headquarters. The 1890s marked a gradual shift from purely volunteer service to a paid on-call system, as Calgary's population and fire risks grew, prompting the hiring of a small number of compensated responders while retaining a volunteer core. A notable demonstration of the corps' expanding role came during the severe flood of June 1897, when members conducted rescues of waterfront residents, evacuating hundreds amid widespread inundation; in recognition of these efforts, the city council awarded the brigade Can$75. This period laid the groundwork for further professionalization, evolving toward full-time staffing in subsequent years.

Major Events and Developments

The Great Fire of 1886, occurring on November 7, devastated Calgary's downtown core, destroying approximately 18 buildings along the main commercial strip due to the prevalence of wooden structures and limitations in the early volunteer response. This catastrophe prompted significant governance reforms in the city, including stricter building codes, and accelerated the shift to fire-resistant construction, which defined Calgary's architectural identity and earned it the moniker "The Sandstone City." By 1909, the department transitioned from its volunteer origins to a professional force, hiring 40 full-time firefighters to meet the demands of a rapidly growing urban center. This professionalization was further advanced in the early 1910s with the acquisition of the department's first motorized apparatus, replacing horse-drawn apparatus and improving response times across the expanding city. During the and II eras, the Calgary Fire Department underwent substantial expansion to manage heightened risks from industrial development, including oil-related facilities, and wartime hazards such as potential enemy attacks, with enhanced training programs implemented to prepare for air raids and chemical incidents. Post-World War II suburban growth, driven by population surges from 97,250 in 1944 to over 400,000 by the , led to the establishment of multiple new fire stations in outlying areas during the and to ensure adequate coverage for residential and commercial sprawl. In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the department continued to expand with Calgary's population boom, including responses to major events like the 2013 and Elbow River floods, where firefighters conducted extensive rescues and mitigation efforts amid widespread inundation affecting over 100,000 residents. Since its inception in 1885, the department has honored 81 fallen firefighters through an annual memorial ceremony at the Police Officers and Firefighters Tribute Plaza, with nine deaths classified as traumatic line-of-duty incidents, four occurring during service, and the remaining 72 attributed to illnesses or injuries related to occupational exposures such as cancer. In 2025, four additional names— Allan Borbridge, Les McMillan, John T. West, and Ron Forrest—were added to the memorial, all having succumbed to occupationally linked cancers. In recent developments, the department ceased providing airport crash rescue services at effective June 1, 2019, transitioning the contract to a private provider after failed negotiations for renewal. The Calgary Fire Department has maintained its accreditation with the Commission on Fire Accreditation International for 25 consecutive years as of 2024, marking it as the only Canadian fire service to achieve six successive cycles of this international standard since first earning it in 1999.

Organizational Structure

Leadership and Divisions

The Calgary Fire Department (CFD) is led by Fire Chief Steve Dongworth, who has served in the role since January 1, 2015, and oversees nearly 1,700 employees delivering fire and emergency services across the city. Dongworth, with over 35 years of experience in municipal fire and emergency services, previously held positions as Deputy Chief of Community Standards, Recruitment and Training, and Commander of Calgary 9-1-1. He is supported by a team of deputy chiefs and assistant deputy chiefs who handle executive oversight and coordinate the department's core functions. The department's structure is divided into four main divisions: Operations, which manages fire suppression and ; Operations Support, responsible for logistics, maintenance, training, and firefighter wellness; Risk Management, focused on , inspections, enforcement, and investigations; and Community Safety, which provides public education and outreach programs targeting vulnerable populations. These divisions ensure integrated delivery of emergency response, prevention, and support services. Operationally, the CFD is organized into four battalions aligned with a four-platoon system, where each rotates 24-hour shifts to maintain continuous coverage across 43 fire stations. The city is further divided into six —Central, North, South, East, West, and Core—each overseen by a district chief, resulting in 24 district chiefs across all shifts to direct frontline activities. The department's 2024 operating budget totaled $282.2 million, equating to approximately $180 per capita, which aligns closely with spending in other major Canadian cities. In 2024, the CFD responded to 87,957 emergency incidents, including critical medical calls and fire-related events, underscoring the scale of its operational demands.

Personnel Composition and Ranks

The Calgary Fire Department employs a total of 1,670 personnel as of 2024, comprising approximately 1,475 frontline firefighters focused on suppression and emergency response duties, alongside 195 support staff in roles such as inspectors, investigators, mechanics, community safety educators, trainers, IT specialists, business professionals, and administrative personnel; by late 2025, this had grown to nearly 1,700 due to ongoing recruitment. This composition reflects an emphasis on operational readiness, with frontline firefighters accounting for about 88% of the workforce, integrating emergency medical technicians and paramedics into suppression teams for comprehensive incident response. The department's rank hierarchy within the Fire Operations Division follows a structured progression outlined in its collective agreement with the Local 255, beginning with entry-level positions and advancing through supervisory roles. These ranks include , (progressing from Permanent 4th/3rd/2nd Year to 1 after six years, 2 after eight years, and 3), , , , , and , with four overseeing the four-platoon system. Higher executive positions, such as and Deputy Chief, provide overarching leadership, while specialized support ranks include , coordinators for hazardous materials and , and technical officers like . To promote diversity and inclusion, the department actively recruits from equity-deserving communities through targeted outreach and events, including the Inclusion 101 training program and youth initiatives like Fire Cadet and Camp Courage. A notable effort is the Women on the Frontline: Calgary Services Open House held on October 19, 2025, at the City Multi-Agency Training Centre, which highlighted career opportunities for and related emergency roles. These initiatives align with the department's commitment to building a respectful and inclusive workforce since 2015, supported by partnerships such as the 2024 Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs Proud Practices Award-winning CFD Indigenous Camp and a second camp held May 2–4, 2025.

Operations and Services

Core Emergency Response

The Calgary Fire Department (CFD) operates an all-hazards response model, addressing a wide array of emergencies including structure fires, medical incidents, collisions, and such as floods. This approach ensures comprehensive coverage for both fire suppression and life-saving interventions across the city's 43 fire stations. In 2024, the department responded to 87,957 incidents, averaging approximately 241 calls per day, with medical emergencies comprising about 50% of the total volume. Deployment follows a platoon-based system with four rotating platoons (A, B, C, and D), where firefighters work 24-hour shifts followed by 48 hours off, enabling continuous coverage from strategically located stations. This structure supports rapid response times, targeting first engine arrival within seven minutes for 90% of fire and rescue incidents and full effective response force assembly within 11 minutes for 90% of calls. The integration of (EMS) is a key component, with CFD firefighters certified as emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics who provide initial life-support interventions in co-response with EMS partners, often arriving first on scene to stabilize patients before ambulance handover. In 2024, this collaboration facilitated 44,159 critical interventions, including the adoption of High Performance CPR protocols that resulted in a 500% increase in (ROSC) rates compared to 2022 levels. Beyond emergency calls, the CFD conducts non-emergency services to mitigate risks, including 25,084 fire safety inspections in 2024, of which 3,307 targeted short-term rental properties to ensure compliance with fire codes. These proactive measures, which saw a 34% increase from 2023, support the department's broader mission of prevention alongside response.

Specialized Response Units

The Calgary Fire Department's Specialized Response Units handle complex, high-risk incidents that require advanced technical expertise beyond routine fire suppression and medical emergencies. These units are composed of highly trained firefighters who deploy specialized equipment and procedures to mitigate hazards such as chemical releases, structural collapses, and water-based rescues. Stationed strategically across the city, they operate 24/7 in coordination with other emergency agencies to protect lives, property, and the environment. The Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) Unit responds to thousands of incidents annually, including environmental spills, vehicle accidents involving chemical releases, and post-incident cleanups from storage tanks or rail cars. Comprising specially trained hazardous materials technicians supported by department-wide firefighters for basic operations, the unit assesses risks, contains releases, and monitors air quality using portable instruments carried on engines and advanced tools on two dedicated hazmat trucks equipped with wireless connectivity. These teams collaborate with Environment and the Health Region to ensure comprehensive mitigation, emphasizing rapid containment to prevent broader environmental and impacts. Technical Rescue Teams consist of more than 90 firefighters specializing in heavy rescue operations for scenarios like high-angle and low-angle rescues from buildings, cranes, bridges, or ravines; entries into silos or tankers using supplied-air systems; and structural collapses involving wood, , or where hydraulic tools and cameras are deployed for victim location and extraction. Additional capabilities include mechanical and , where crews stabilize machinery or wreckage to free victims, as well as and rescues with equipment to prevent further cave-ins. These teams undergo rigorous training at the department's Fire Training Academy to maintain proficiency in these demanding environments. The Aquatic Rescue Team, building on the department's legacy of water operations since the 1897 flood when firefighters rescued waterfront residents amid widespread inundation, is trained to peak performance levels for both fire suppression and water emergencies on rivers, lakes, and canals. Handling over 200 calls yearly—including ice rescues, submerged vehicle recoveries, and forensic dives—the team conducts more than 350 river patrols annually and operates within a critical 90-minute response window for swift, glacier-fed waters like the Bow and Rivers. Crews partner with air ambulance for aerial missions and emphasize seasonal safety to address risks from fluctuating water levels and cold temperatures. For (USAR), Calgary Fire Department personnel integrate into Canada Task Force 2 (CAN-TF2), a Calgary-based heavy USAR team under the Calgary Emergency Management Agency that deploys up to 75 specialized members for collapsed structures, earthquakes, or disasters, operating 24/7 for up to 14 days with self-contained capabilities for search, medical support, and structural assessment. This national resource enables CFD to contribute to both local incidents, such as building collapses, and broader responses across or internationally. The department also provides support for fires, assisting Alberta's Wildland Urban Interface Program by deploying structural firefighters trained in interface operations to protect communities where wildfires threaten urban edges, including structure defense and evacuation coordination during high-risk seasons. Recent innovations include the adoption of PFAS-free firefighting foams to reduce health risks for responders, with the department committing to phase out per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from legacy foams and transitioning to safer alternatives through ongoing testing and procurement. Additionally, aerial apparatus units have been enhanced for high-rise responses, featuring dedicated tower ladders and platforms like the Pierce Enforcer series to support elevated and in Calgary's growing downtown skyline.

Facilities and Equipment

Fire Stations

The Calgary Fire Department maintains a network of 45 fire stations strategically positioned to serve the urban core and expanding suburban communities throughout the city. This infrastructure ensures comprehensive coverage for emergency response, with stations distributed to minimize response times amid Calgary's rapid population growth. The department's headquarters is located at 4144 11th Street SE, serving as the central administrative and operational hub. Among the key stations, Fire Station 1 stands as a historic in the , originally constructed in to advance early firefighting capabilities and designated as a Provincial Historic Resource. In contrast, Fire Station 13, which previously provided crash rescue services at , ceased operations on March 1, 2019, when the airport transitioned to private firefighting contractors. To address ongoing urban expansion, the department has pursued several new station developments, including temporary facilities. Temporary Station 44 in Livingston (northeast) opened in July 2021 at 1248 Livingston Way NE, and temporary Station 45 in Belvedere (southeast) opened in October 2023 at #2000, 250 East Hills Square S.E., supporting growth in those areas. In 2025, Station 38 opened in the neighbourhood (northeast) as part of a multi-service facility at 128 Cornerstone Heights N.E., replacing a temporary station and enhancing response in surrounding areas like and Redstone. Similarly, a replacement station in Varsity (northwest) at 3740 32nd Avenue N.W. became operational in June 2025, integrating fire services with affordable housing and community spaces to better serve the growing northwest. Station 43 in (southeast), located at 969 Walden Drive S.E., also entered service as a temporary facility to cover emerging communities such as Legacy and , with a permanent station planned for 2028. Further growth is planned through temporary stations in Rockland Park (northwest), Hotchkiss (southeast), and Yorkville (southwest) to support interim needs during development. Additionally, in February 2022, the City announced the relocation of Station 3 to a mixed-use site at 1212 11th Avenue S.E. in Inglewood, though the project remains on hold pending further evaluation.

Apparatus and Vehicles

The Calgary Fire Department (CFD) maintains a diverse fleet of apparatus and vehicles designed to support emergency responses across its 45 fire stations. This fleet includes standard suppression units, aerial platforms for elevated access, rigs for technical operations, and specialized vehicles for hazardous materials, command functions, and water-based incidents. The composition emphasizes reliability and adaptability to urban, suburban, and interface environments within . Engine companies form the core of the fleet, consisting of 48 pumper trucks equipped for suppression with pumps, hoses, and systems. These standard pumpers are primarily used for structural s and responses, while wildland variants, including 4 tanker trucks with large capacities, address interface s in Calgary's outskirts. Aerial apparatus include 13 and tower trucks, providing elevated access for high-rise and complex rescues through extendable ladders and platforms, such as the specialized Bronto Skylift for precise aerial operations. Rescue units comprise 13 heavy rescue rigs outfitted for , operations, and technical rescues, featuring tools like hydraulic cutters, airbags, and stabilization equipment mounted on robust . Specialized vehicles enhance targeted responses: hazmat units, including three dedicated response trucks with monitoring and containment gear, handle chemical incidents; command units facilitate incident coordination with communication arrays; and 9 support river and lake rescues along Calgary's waterways. In , the CFD piloted Canada's first electric , a Pierce Volterra pumper, as part of a initiative to test zero-emission technology in operational settings.
Apparatus TypeQuantityPrimary Function
Pumper/Engines48Fire suppression (standard and wildland variants)
Aerials (ladders/towers)13Elevated access and high-reach operations
Rescue Units13Extrication and technical rescues
Tanker Trucks4Wildland fire support
Hazmat Vehicles3Hazardous materials response
9Water rescue
Bronto Skylift1Specialized aerial platform
Fleet maintenance is conducted at the and Facility located at 1755 18th Avenue NE, where apparatus undergo repairs, inspections, and upgrades to ensure operational readiness. This facility supports the entire fleet through specialized bays and , aligning with a 2025 five-year contract with for new engines and rescues, building on previous agreements for aerials and water tenders to modernize the inventory.

Training and Preparedness

Fire Training Academy

The Fire Training Academy of the Calgary Fire Department is located at 5727 and 5705 23 Avenue SE in southeast , near Elliston Park, providing a dedicated space for hands-on firefighter preparation. This site houses the Multi-Agency Training () Centre, which facilitates collaborative exercises among various emergency services. Key facilities at the academy include burn buildings, such as an village simulating real-life residential fire scenarios; rescue towers for high-angle operations; extrication pads for rescue practice; and water training areas featuring a clean for aquatic simulations, with systems to minimize environmental impact. These structures enable safe, controlled environments for developing critical skills in fire suppression, , and extrication. The academy conducts year-round training sessions covering high-angle rope rescue, water rescue, , structural collapse, and operations, serving both Calgary firefighters and teams. In 2024, the facility delivered 240,000 hours of training focused on engine company operations, fire suppression, and to incumbent personnel, alongside specialized resiliency programs. Through the MAT Centre, the partners with other agencies for joint exercises, enhancing inter-agency coordination and response capabilities. Additional collaborations include trauma-informed with organizations like . Probationary firefighters undergo intensive following successful completion of the Physical (CPAT), a standardized pre-employment fitness evaluation simulating fire scene demands. In 2024, the graduated 117 new probationary firefighters, representing the department's largest recruiting effort to date. These graduates complete an 18-month probationary period at assigned stations after their program.

Recruitment and Professional Development

The Calgary Fire Department (CFD) employs a rigorous, multi-step process to select probationary firefighters, consisting of ten phases that evaluate candidates' , physical capabilities, background, and alignment with departmental values such as pride, professionalism, teamwork, and respect. The process begins with an online application, followed by a fire service test, document submission, completion of a personal history statement, panel interviews, a pre-employment polygraph examination, the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT), a medical assessment, and a final background investigation. occurs in periodic cycles, with the 2025 intake open from March 1 to 31 and targeting the hiring of 130 to 150 probationary firefighters to meet operational needs. As of April 2025, the first class of 43 probationary firefighters graduated, with two more classes expected later in the year to meet the target. Entry-level requirements emphasize foundational qualifications and readiness for demanding roles, including being at least 18 years old, legally entitled to work in , possession of a or equivalent, a valid Alberta Class 3 with air brake endorsement (or provincial equivalent), advanced certification or higher, and CPR for Providers (HCP) or (BLS). Fitness standards are strictly enforced through the CPAT, which simulates tasks such as , hose dragging, and equipment carrying, along with the Work Fitness Initiative (WFI) treadmill test to ensure cardiovascular endurance without medical restrictions. The CFD prioritizes diversity in hiring to reflect 's multicultural population, incorporating inclusive practices and hosting outreach events such as the Calgary Emergency Services on October 18, 2025, at the Multi-Agency Training Centre to engage underrepresented communities. Preparation for panel interviews is supported through free workshops offered via the Prospect platform (prospectnow.ca), which provides guidance on behavioral interviewing and application strategies. Successful candidates enter as probationary firefighters, undergoing an 18-month probationary period during which they are assigned to fire stations for on-the-job experience while earning $35.88 per hour (as of 2025) under a 24-hour on/48-hour off shift schedule, adjusted to 24 on/96 off over the cycle. In 2024, the CFD graduated multiple recruit classes, including 42 firefighters in July and 36 in December, contributing to enhanced staffing and response capabilities across the city's 43 stations. Professional development within the CFD focuses on continuous skill enhancement and advancement, with firefighters required to obtain ongoing certifications for promotional opportunities, such as those in fire officer training that cover , incident command, and operational . Promotions progress through ranks from to acting , , battalion chief, deputy chief, and ultimately , determined by time in rank (typically several years per level), successful completion of written and practical examinations, and accumulation of relevant professional certifications in areas like , hazardous materials response, or aquatic rescue. The department supports and resilience through the Resilient Responder program, which offers training courses for personnel and their families to address the psychological demands of emergency response, including and strategies. Retention efforts emphasize creating an inclusive environment to minimize turnover, with initiatives such as equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) training modules like Inclusion 101 e-learning, which build cultural competency and foster belonging among a workforce of approximately 1,500 members. These programs, including targeted from diverse communities and ongoing EDI framework implementation, help sustain high retention by promoting professional growth and a supportive .

Community Engagement and Prevention

Public Education Programs

The Calgary Fire Department (CFD) delivers a range of public education programs aimed at enhancing fire safety awareness and emergency preparedness among residents, particularly youth, through interactive and targeted outreach initiatives. These programs emphasize hands-on learning to equip participants with practical skills for preventing fires and responding effectively in emergencies, contributing to broader community safety goals. One cornerstone program is the Fire Safety Trailer, a mobile classroom introduced in 2016 that visits elementary schools to educate grade 5 students on common home hazards. Participants engage in simulations focusing on —such as turning pot handles inward, unplugging appliances during malfunctions, and avoiding flammable materials near heat sources—and bedroom safety measures, including checking smoke alarms, avoiding overloaded outlets, and using escape routes like windows or ladders for upper floors. The program reaches thousands of students annually across schools, fostering early adoption of safe behaviors. The Fire Cadets program targets high school students aged 15 to 18, offering an 18-month curriculum that builds basics alongside leadership, teamwork, and community service skills. Trainees learn practical techniques like hose handling, , use, and ladder operations during weekly evening sessions at the CFD Training Academy. Applications for the 2025 intake were accepted from January 6 to March 28, with a $150 fee per semester covering materials and uniforms. In 2023, the CFD launched an innovative (VR) fire safety program, which was enhanced in 2024 to include multilingual support in seven languages, including English, Spanish, , and Punjabi, with Blackfoot forthcoming. This immersive tool simulates real-world scenarios, such as identifying household hazards, extinguishing a stove-top , escaping a second-floor , and practicing with fire extinguishers or hoses, allowing safe, repeated exposure without risk. Deployed at schools and community events, it has broadened access to for diverse groups. Targeted youth programs like the CFD Indigenous Camp and Camp Courage address specific community needs. The Indigenous Camp, held annually for individuals aged 18 and older from First Nations, , , and urban Indigenous backgrounds, provides a weekend of hands-on training in firefighting skills, emergency response, and career pathways to promote the profession within these communities; the 2025 session occurred May 2–4 and earned the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs' 2024 Proud Practices Award. Complementing this, Camp Courage is a week-long collaborative camp for young women and gender-diverse youth aged 15 to 18, introducing participants to first responder roles—including CFD operations—through skill-building activities that emphasize and . Collectively, these efforts reached 65,926 Calgarians through non-emergency initiatives in , marking a significant expansion in . The CFD also briefly references home visits as a complementary tool for personalized , though these fall under broader prevention strategies.

Safety Initiatives and Risk Reduction

The Calgary Fire Department's Home Safety Program provides free home visits to Calgary residents, focusing on fire prevention through inspections and education. Community Safety Officers conduct these visits to check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, replace batteries or install new units as needed, and assist in developing personalized home escape plans. In 2024, the program reached 20,636 homes, achieving a 100% completion rate for visits, with a particular emphasis on high-risk areas to enhance occupant preparedness. To address youth involvement in fire-related incidents, the department operates the Youth Firesetter Intervention Referral and Education Service (Y-FIRES), a free and confidential program for children aged 3 to 17 who have engaged in fire setting or fire play. The service offers individualized counseling, strategies, and family education on , including home safety assessments for smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Referrals can come from parents, schools, police, or other community members via a dedicated , ensuring early intervention to prevent future risks. In 2024, Y-FIRES served 6 clients, contributing to broader efforts in reducing intentional fires. Risk management forms a core component of the department's prevention strategy, with a risk-based model prioritizing high-risk buildings and communities. In 2024, the Fire Inspections and Investigations team completed 25,084 —a 32% increase from the previous year—including 8,550 reviews and 3,307 inspections to verify compliance with fire codes, such as proper smoke alarms, escape routes, and extinguishers. These efforts target areas with elevated fire history, demographics indicating , and non-residential occupancies, fostering proactive compliance to mitigate hazards before incidents occur. The department strengthens its initiatives through strategic partnerships and sponsorships, enabling expanded outreach in underserved or high-risk communities. Collaborations with organizations like , , and Deaf & Hear support targeted programs, such as specialized alerting devices for hard-of-hearing residents and community events in areas with fire histories. Sponsorships fund resources for the Home Safety Program and other prevention efforts, with partners contributing to demonstrations and materials distribution at public events. In 2025, the CFD continued emphasizing emerging risks through Fire Prevention Week (October 5–11), themed "Charge Safe," which focused on lithium-ion battery safety. The campaign highlighted safe charging practices to prevent fires from devices like e-bikes and scooters, following 12 major battery fire incidents and over $32 million in estimated property losses in Calgary for the year to date. These combined measures have yielded measurable reductions in fire risks and incidents across Calgary. In 2024, total emergency calls decreased by 5% to 87,957, while intentionally set fires dropped 23%, and fire spread was contained to the room or object of origin in 79.6% of cases, saving an estimated $654 million in property value. Targeted inspections and interventions, particularly in short-term rentals and vulnerable homes, have directly lowered incident rates by addressing root causes like non-compliant safety systems. As of mid-2025, overall fire responses increased by 20% compared to 2024, but cooking fires decreased by 41%, indicating the effectiveness of ongoing prevention education.

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