LAC LA BICHE - False alarms have become a big problem in Lac La Biche, with the County fire department responding to 118 false alarm calls in 2024.
“False alarm calls have become our number one response type,” said Chris Newhook, Deputy Chief of Operations and Training in a statement sent to Lakeland This Week.
Newhook said it is important to make sure alarm and monitoring companies have up to date contact information because when a security system smoke alarm goes off the alarm company calls the fire department first, and tries to reach the homeowner second.
“On numerous occasions the alarm company has not been able to contact the homeowner or renter. Additionally, property owners and renters need to ensure that their correct physical address (green sign) is updated with the alarm monitoring company. Without the correct address locating the alarm call can be difficult and delayed,” said Newhook.
Lac La Biche County Fire Rescue also responded to 79 vehicle collisions, 69 wildland fires, 67 medical calls to assist AHS, 27 vehicle fires, and 24 structure fires as of Dec. 11, 2024.
Newhook said the department welcomed seven new recruits in 2024, bringing its current roster up to 57 people between five fire stations. They are actively recruiting for the Owl River, Hylo, and Rich Lake stations.
“Our department is hoping to expand our service level for our community and the province by becoming one of four new provincial Wildland Urban Interface teams,” said Newhook.
Becoming a provincial Wildland Urban Interface team would mean adding four full- time firefighters to serve the communities, who would then also respond to wildfires throughout the province when requested.
“If approved, this will provide a large boost to the delivery of service to our communities and our ability to support the province and our neighbours. As part of this program, we would also see an increase in wildfire response related training for fire departments and fire fighters outside of Lac La Biche County,” said Newhook.
