In an emergency, every Second counts.
And so does every fire fighter.
The British Columbia Professional Fire Fighters' Association (BCPFFA) is urgently advocating for four firefighters per fire engine and truck, aligning with the internationally recognized NFPA 1710 standard. They argue that current understaffing in several fire departments, with only two or three firefighters per apparatus or even solo responses, jeopardizes both public and firefighter safety.
The NFPA 1710 standard, based on scientific research, outlines the minimum personnel required for effective emergency response. Studies show that a four-person crew is significantly more effective than smaller crews for tasks like water supply, hose operation, search and rescue, and ventilation. The BCPFFA urges municipalities to meet this standard, emphasizing that proper emergency response is a critical public safety investment. While some areas have increased staffing, many still fall short of the recommended levels.
〰️ 4 fire fighters 4 your safety
〰️ 4 fire fighters 4 your safety
Understaffed Fire Departments: A Critical Threat to Public Safety and Firefighter Lives
When an emergency strikes, every second counts. This is never more true than during a structure fire, whether in a family home or a towering high-rise. In these high-stakes situations, even the smallest delay can drastically alter outcomes, making the difference between life and death, or minor damage and total devastation.
Extensive research consistently demonstrates a stark reality: fully staffed fire departments are unequivocally more effective.
Beyond protecting the public, proper staffing is paramount for the safety of the firefighters themselves. Understaffed crews face increased risks of injury, exhaustion, and being overwhelmed in dangerous situations, compromising their ability to perform their duties safely and effectively.
The evidence is clear: Investing in fully staffed fire departments isn't just an operational preference; it's a fundamental necessity for robust public safety and the well-being of our dedicated firefighters.
4 FIRE FIGHTERS 4 YOUR SAFETY
The best way to guarantee residents of British Columbia and Yukon receive the best emergency services possible is to ensure every emergency is met with 4 fire fighters on duty and ready to respond.
4 Fire Fighters 4 Your Safety means:
Reduced Risk to Fire Fighters
Full staffing means safer working conditions, reducing fire fighters’ risk of fatigue, injuries, exposure to harmful toxins and carcinogens and death
Faster Response, Safer Outcomes
4 fire fighters can immediately begin coordinated operations, minimizing delays in rescues and fire suppression
Better Protection for the Public
From structure fires to vehicle accidents, more hands on the scene means faster response and better health outcomes during emergencies.
Compliance with NFPA 1710
Ensures departments meet internationally recognized minimum standards for fireground efficiency and crew safety.
Stronger, Safer Communities
Properly staffed fire departments are critical to a strong, reliable emergency response system.
〰️ NFPA 1710
〰️ NFPA 1710
Why the NFPA 1710 Standard?
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is an international, non-profit organization formed with the stated goal of “eliminating death, injury, property and economic loss due to fire, electrical and related hazards”. NFPA 1710 is a standard that recommends minimum requirements for fire departments to make sure emergency response is safe and efficient.
1710s key staffing recommendations include:
A minimum of 4 fire fighters per engine/truck company
Rapid, coordinated deployment within set response time goals
Safe, effective operations for all-hazard emergencies
The NFPA recommends these standards based on years of data and research compiled by their organization, and through close partnerships with leaders in the fire service from across the globe.
