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File #: 25-275    Version: 1 Name:
Type: Staff Report Status: Agenda Ready
File created: 7/11/2025 In control: Council
On agenda: 7/21/2025 Final action:
Title: Fire Suppression Level of Service, Staff Report No. FIRE-25-007
Attachments: 1. Response Analysis, 2. Fire Level of Service Presentation
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TOWNSHIP OF ESQUIMALT STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: July 21, 2025 Report No. FIRE-25-007

TO: Council
FROM: Matt Furlot, Fire Chief
SUBJECT: Fire Suppression Level of Service Endorsement

RECOMMENDATION:

Recommendation
That Council receive this report for information and confirm that the targeted minimum level of service for fire suppression is four firefighters on the Engine and two on the Ladder/Rescue truck, for a total of six suppression personnel per shift.
Body

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

This report recommends that Council endorse Esquimalt Fire Rescue Services' (EFRS) minimum suppression staffing as four firefighters on the Engine and two on the Ladder/Rescue truck. This staffing model supports the Township's declared Full-Service designation, complies with WorkSafeBC regulations, and ensures the department can fulfill its mutual aid obligations and community response expectations.

BACKGROUND:

EFRS recognizes the importance of maintaining six suppression firefighters per shift to support safe and effective emergency response. This includes four firefighters on the Engine and two on the Ladder/Rescue truck. This staffing model enables compliance with two-in/two-out interior fire operations, provides flexibility for overlapping calls, and maintains readiness for mutual aid support.
While six-person staffing is the operational goal, prior to 2024, the department occasionally operated with five due to temporary vacancies. In early 2024, EFRS began consistently staffing to six by utilizing overtime to fill short-term gaps. This approach has improved deployment reliability, compliance with regulatory standards, and operational safety.
Formalizing this level of service provides clarity for Council and staff, supports transparency, and aligns with EFRS's strategic direction and declared service level.

ANALYSIS:

Confirming a minimum staffing level of six suppression firefighters per shift reflects current operational practice and aligns with the Township's de...

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