Coldstream Fire Engine (Image Credit: Vernon Matters)

By Liam Verster

Emergency Preparedness Funding

Coldstream, other communities get boost for firefighting capabilities

Mar 31, 2026 | 10:27 AM

Several area communities will be benefiting from a provincial investment into volunteer and composite fire departments.

The $4-million investment coming through B.C.’s Community Emergency Preparedness Fund aimed to strengthen emergency response and keep communities safe throughout the province.

“Volunteer firefighters show up when it matters most, and this funding equips them to respond faster and more effectively,” Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, said.

“Every community faces different risks and these projects will allow local fire departments to invest in the specific training and equipment they need to keep both responders and residents safe.”

Among the 86 projects being funded through this program are investments in fire departments in the North Okanagan.

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• Coldstream: $30,000 for firefighter gear cleaning and safety equipment upgrades
• Armstrong: $29,779 for structure fire equipment
• Enderby: $30,000 for breathing apparatuses and a high-volume pump
• Okanagan Indian Band: $28,374 to replace turn-out gear 

The province said the funding through the program will help ensure fire departments are prepared and ready to respond to emergencies.

“Firefighters put themselves in harm’s way to protect people in B.C., homes and businesses,” Nina Krieger, minister of public safety and solicitor general, said.

“This funding will supplement training and help equip firefighters be prepared for any challenges that arise, keeping themselves and their communities safe.”

Other area communities benefiting from the investments include:

• Salmon Arm: $30,000 for firefighting equipment and training materials
• Sicamous: $30,000 for breathing-apparatus cylinders, turnout gear and a fill-station sequencer
• Chase: $26,300 for firefighter equipment and communications upgrades
• Peachland: $30,000 for firefighter gear cleaning and safety equipment

“UBCM appreciates the provincial government’s support for training and equipment for volunteer and composite fire departments through this program,” Cori Ramsay, President of the Union of B.C. Municipalities (UBCM), said.

“This funding contributes to local emergency-response capacity and assists communities as they work to maintain effective and reliable fire services at home in our communities.”