Town passes new fire services bylaw

By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Town of Strathmore council hosted discussions regarding its local fire services bylaw during the July 3 regular meeting of council.

“The fire services bylaw has not been reviewed since 2018; a major rewrite was necessary to update the fire protection emergency response for the community. It also provides guidelines for fire prevention and outlines the responsibilities of individuals and property owners for fire safety,” said David Sturgeon, Strathmore fire chief. “The fire services bylaw establishes authority and responsibilities for the Strathmore Fire Department, defines roles and powers of the chief and department members, and empowers the fire chief to establish rules and regulations for operations of the department with council approval.”

Sturgeon explained the proposed changes would bring the fire services bylaw in line with current practices and operations at the fire department. 

Detailed in the drafted bylaw, there were no direct financial implications to the town, though proposed changes included penalties associated with fire related offences, which was not included in the previous bylaw. 

“The updated fire services bylaw describes and enforces specific elements related to open burning, fireworks, fire bans, and fire restrictions. It also discusses the enforcement of environmental protection regulations, as it restricts the burning of prohibited debris, and making permits necessary.” said Sturgeon. “Fire services bylaw 1802 was approved by council in 2018. As part of the current practice of reviewing policies and bylaws, administration has identified this bylaw as it is no longer aligned with our current practices.”

In the report submitted to council, it was detailed that the bylaw is designed to ensure the safety of residents in Strathmore, and protect properties from fires and other emergencies.

Additionally, the bylaw governs the use of alarm systems, permits for open burning and fireworks, and the enforcement of fire protection measures. 

A draft of the bylaw 24-10 was presented to Town of Strathmore council during the June 12 Committee of the Whole meeting.

The draft of the bylaw was also included in council’s publicly available meeting agenda for the July 3 meeting. 

Both administration and fire services recommended that council approve all three readings of the bylaw during the July 3 regular meeting.

“Altogether, the new fire services bylaw addresses any inconsistencies in the existing bylaw by adding clarity and enforceability, it addresses emerging fire safety concerns and ensures bylaw continues to meet the needs of the community,” said Sturgeon. 

Council passed all three readings for the new fire services bylaw following Sturgeon’s presentation.