Strathmore’s Fire Chief reflects on 2025 

By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Strathmore’s Fire Chief, Dave Sturgeon, described 2025 as “a very rewarding year” with changes made to local operations aimed to significantly improve services. 

“There are some key developments in our fire service that helped us progress to the next step – primarily the Wildland Urban Interface response team that was awarded through the Province of Alberta,” said Sturgeon. “(That) gave us that opportunity not only to respond throughout the province and help that way, but it put us on track to be able to provide 24/7 full-time staffing coverage for the town as well, which we started on Nov. 10.”

He explained having a stable revenue source for the department has increased their response capabilities both throughout the province as well as within the town, as well as to quite simply have staff on hand at all hours.

In this respect, Sturgeon added response to medical calls has also been able to be improved.

Regarding the town’s goal to see the construction of a new fire station, it remains a topic that is largely out of the fire department’s hands.

“I know that was some of the councillors’ priorities during the election and to this point, that is in their realm. We are hoping, obviously, that will get across the line, but that is up to the municipal leaders to make those decisions,” he said. 

Sturgeon specifically highlighted the success of the fire inspection program for all commercial and high-density residential areas throughout the town this year. 

“That is over 500 inspectable properties which we completed in early December, and we will be starting again next year relatively soon here,” he said. “Everybody has done some great work out there in the businesses and those residential developments.”

Among the popular events which the fire department participates in is the Canada Day pancake breakfast. Sturgeon added it is always a huge draw for local residents to come out.

The fire prevention program which has been implemented over the last several years was also among the notable success stories, being able to tour schools and senior living facilities to conduct safety presentations. 

“In 2026, a big (program) for us, council through the budget process has supported us with the start of our own fire training center. We are starting relatively small, but it will have a huge impact locally,” said Sturgeon.

“Our firefighters will be able to do what’s called live fire training right here in town and not have to travel for several hours to get to different facilities. We will see, obviously, that contingent of firefighters to be able to stay locally and train locally.”

He added the goal is to see the program eventually develop and grow regionally once operations are fully cemented.