The PRRD Rural Budget Administration Committee has approved firefighter safety upgrades for both the Charlie Lake and Moberly Lake Fire Departments.
Both fire stations are set to replace their aging bunker gear that contains PFAS, a synthetic chemical once used for heat and water resistance in gear.
WorkSafe BC has been pressuring fire halls across the province to step away from equipment containing the chemical. PFAS can lead to cancers, liver and kidney diseases, and other health issues.
Both fire departments will receive $200,000 each to purchase PFAS-free equipment. A full set costs around $5,000 per firefighters.
Additionally, the PRRD approved $17,500 to replace the engine of the Moberly Lake’s Squad 4 command vehicle.
The vehicle suffered a “catastrophic engine failure” and the newly approved budget will extend the truck’s life only a few years.
The committee is considering replacing the Squad 4 command vehicle completely in 2026 and would need an allocation of $180,000 for a new vehicle, and $100,000 for a used one.
The PRRD said these investments show its commitment to firefighters’ health and safety ahead of possible regulation changes. The district added it reduces future liability and follows the Asset and Infrastructure Management plan.