Lax Kw’alaams Fire Department led the field at this year’s BC Indigenous Firefighter Competition, hosted by the First Nations’ Emergency Services Society of B.C., known as FNESS.
Now in its 40th year, the competition brought together First Nations fire crews from across British Columbia to demonstrate their skills in fire response, coordination, and teamwork. Tache Fire Department finished second, followed by the Lower Nicola Indian Band in third. Kitkatla Fire Department received recognition for sportsmanship.
The competition is more than just a challenge — it serves as a platform for hands-on training, skill development, and peer learning among Indigenous emergency responders. It also reflects the growing capabilities of First Nations fire services and their critical role in community safety.
FNESS, originally established in 1986 to reduce fire-related deaths on reserves, now delivers a wide range of emergency and wildfire services. The society works closely with communities to build safer and more resilient First Nations across the province.
Events like this competition help reinforce that mission by showcasing the expertise and dedication found in First Nations fire departments. They continue to raise the bar for what effective, community-led emergency response looks like in B.C.
Comments