Parksville Fire Rescue awarded $40K for decontamination equipment

Parksville Fire Rescue was awarded $40,000 from the Union of BC Municipalities Community Emergency Preparedness Volunteer (Composite Fire Departments Equipment and Training) Fund enabling the purchase and installation of advanced decontamination equipment. Grant funding was approved in 2024 and the project with a total cost of $41,144, was completed in October 2025. According to a press release, installation of Meiko decontamination washer and related equipment has significantly enhanced the department’s ability to meet both community needs and the BC Structure Firefighter Minimum Training Standards by ensuring personal protective equipment such as self-contained breathing apparatus, helmets, air cylinders and facepieces are properly decontaminated after each use, reducing the risk of long-term health issues caused by exposure to carcinogens and other hazards. This project has also enhanced the resilience of Parksville Fire Rescue operational readiness by significantly reducing the time and labour required to clean firefighter gear facilitating a quicker turnaround time. “By equipping Parksville firefighters with the knowledge and equipment to maintain clean gear, the department has taken a proactive step in protecting the long-term health of members,” said acting assistant chief Cam Cruickshank. “Knowing their gear is properly cleaned helps to alleviate stress and anxiety related to potential health risks, contributing to a healthier work environment in a high-risk profession.”