The Fire Service is particularly proud of its services to the community in terms of its contribution to the “Safe Community”. The department offers an array of educational and prevention programs that are suited for all segments of the community including schools, businesses, community groups, institutional occupancies and civic events.
The Fire Prevention/Investigation Bureau performs technical and field operational work that includes fire investigations, inspections and enforcement of the fire prevention regulations and public education. Duties involve various aspects of a comprehensive fire prevention delivery system aimed at reducing the loss of life and property to fire and mishap. Fire investigations, inspections of public buildings, plans review, fire safety planning, public fire education and code enforcement are part of the fire investigators/inspectors role in the department. The Fire Prevention Bureau consists of a Chief Fire Prevention Officer, and 3 Fire Investigators/Inspectors. All are certified Alberta Safety Codes Officers in accordance with the Alberta Safety Codes Council.
Fire Inspection Services:
Inspections of commercial businesses, public buildings and multi-family residential occupancies have been conducted since the early 1950’s. The inspections limit the risk to life and property loss by identifying conditions, which could contribute to the start and spread of smoke and fire. Inspections are reflective of the Fire Service’s Quality Management Plan (QMP) and every property is inspected on a cycle of semi-annually, annually and bi-annually. Fire Safety Codes Officers also conduct building occupancy inspections on new construction/renovations in conjunction with the City of Medicine Hat building and engineering staff.
Fire Investigations:
Fire investigators investigate every fire or explosion that results in property damage, injury, death, and arson to determine the origin, cause and circumstances of the fire/explosion. Incident commanders will initiate the investigation immediately the fire is brought under control. The results of the investigations are forwarded to the Provincial Fire Marshal for statistical purposes and possible amendments to safety codes.
The legislation related to dollar loss fire reporting is not limited to fire events where Fire Service intervention occurs. Any fire that occurs and results in loss is to be reported to the Fire Service for investigation purposes.
Plans Examination/Review:
Fire Inspectors review and examine building plans, perform site inspections, and provide occupancy approvals and consult with builders and architects to ensure that buildings conform to the Alberta Fire Code, Alberta Building Code, and municipal servicing standards. They are active members on the City’s Technical Coordinating Committee and Enforcement Committee.
Installation/Removal on above/underground tanks:
The inspection and monitoring of above and underground fuel tank installations and removals are legislated responsibilities of Fire Safety Codes Officers. The role is accomplished by working closely with facility owners and where necessary, the Provincial environmental authorities.
Bylaws and Permits:
Fire Safety Codes Officers commonly are the department’s authority for the issuance of permits in accordance with various City of Medicine Hat Bylaws. The permits are:
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Installation of Fire Pits | |
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Transportation of Dangerous Goods Bylaw | |
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Traffic Bylaw, Heavy Truck Routes | |
| Fire Alarm Registration | ||
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Fireworks/Pyrotechnics | |
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Outdoor Burning Bylaw |
Fire Alarm Registration Program
New to the City is a Bylaw that compels all owners of fire alarm systems that transmit a signal to an alarm monitoring agency to register the system with the Fire Service. The requirement to register takes effect in September 2006. Owners can access the bylaw and the registration forms through the City’s web site. The essence of the bylaw is to have all centrally monitored systems registered and managed in such a way that false alarms are reduced. Fees and charges for false alarms and failure to register are included within the provisions of the bylaw.
Property Records Searches:
Requests are routinely received from insurance companies, law firms and environmental testing agencies for records and/or property searches. Records are provided in accordance with the Provincial Freedom of Information and Privacy Act (FOIP) and are subject to a fee for the service.
Technical advice and consultation services:
The Fire Inspection Bureau is available to provide fire safety advice and consultations on request. Issues that involve fire code interpretations, the safe storage of flammable and combustible liquids, fire and life safety features in buildings and facilities and emergency response plans development are all available by contacting the Bureau.
Pre-Fire Planning:
The Fire Prevention/Investigation Bureau is available to assist owners, managers and occupants in the development of pre-fire plans. Not only is the service of significant benefit to the occupants of buildings and facilities but it affords fire suppression staff with an opportunity to better familiarize themselves with unique features in many community buildings.