This post is inspired by a powerful write-up from Lethbridge Firefighter/Paramedic Blake Olson, who said it incredibly well. In Red Deer, our integrated Fire-Based EMS system means there are no gaps between fire and medical response, because it’s all one team. Every emergency is different. Fires, cardiac arrests, rescues, and major incidents don’t fit into one category, they overlap. And in an integrated system, that overlap is fully covered by our FireMedics. That means: - Fire trucks can provide Advanced Life Support medical care immediately - ⁠Ambulances arrive with full situational awareness and are able to assist fire crews - ⁠Highly trained Advanced Care Paramedics are on multiple responding units to deliver the best patient care no matter the call Care starts right away, no delays, no handoffs, no missed steps. This model isn’t unique to Red Deer. Communities like Lethbridge and other integrated services across Alberta have built and refined this system over decades because it works. It’s coordinated. It’s efficient. And most importantly, it’s built around the patient! Integrated emergency services mean faster care, better teamwork, and no gaps in care when it matters most.

Structure Fire in Station 3’s Area Earlier this evening, crews were dispatched to a structure fire in Station 3’s district. Multiple fire apparatus and an EMS unit responded quickly, working together to bring the situation under control. This is what an integrated system looks like in action. Firefighters and paramedics arriving together, trained to handle both fire suppression and advanced medical care from the moment they step off the truck. Whether it’s fire, medical, or both, having the right people on scene, right away, makes a difference. Proud of the teamwork and professionalism shown by all crews on this call. #RedDeerFirefighters #IAFF1190 #PublicSafetyMatters #IntegratedResponse #FireAndEMS

Your Red Deer firefighter paramedics take pride in many things. Above all, we take pride in our commitment to the people we serve. Across Alberta, there is a story that has become far too common. Ambulance shifts left unfilled. Units taken out of service. Communities left waiting when every second matters most. In Red Deer, we are proud to say that every day, in every ambulance, every seat is filled. We do not step back from the level of care our citizens deserve. When you call, you receive the highest standard of Advanced Life Support care. No exceptions.

To the citizens of Red Deer and Central Alberta; I can assure you that we are working collaboratively with the City Of Red Deer Emergency Services leadership team to find a positive outcome during the EHS contract discussions. The Red Deer Firefighters have been delivering industry leading Emergency Medical Services to the citizens of Red Deer and Central Alberta since 1962! It is our intention to keep that high level of service going. Stayed tuned in the coming days and weeks to see how you can assist us in maintaining the delivery of EMS to the citizens to whom we serve. IAFF Local 1190  President  Brad Readman

Yesterday, Red Deer Emergency Services crews responded to a structure fire in a low-rise apartment building in Station 1’s area. Firefighters encountered a fire on the second floor and acted quickly to contain the incident and protect surrounding units. Multiple crews worked together on scene to bring the situation under control. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. #RedDeerFirefighters #RedDeer #IAFF1190 #PublicSafety #iaff6thdistrict

Today, Red Deer Firefighters L1190 joins in the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day by honoring the deep-rooted history between the Irish and the fire service. The history of the Irish in the fire service is a story of grit. In the mid-1800s, Irish immigrants faced immense hardship and took on the dangerous, grueling jobs that others wouldn’t touch. They found their home in the firehouse, turning a job into a brotherhood and helping to build the foundations of the modern fire service. From the sound of the bagpipes at our ceremonies to the resilience we show on every call. Whether you’re celebrating with family or out with friends, please celebrate responsibly! Sláinte!

Crews responded to a structure fire in Station 2’s area this evening. Firefighters located fire in the attic and roof area and worked quickly to bring it under control. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of all responding crews, the fire was contained and prevented from spreading further. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Today we recognize the incredible women who serve our community every day. From firefighters to paramedics to dispatchers, women play a vital role in keeping our city safe. Their skill, dedication, and professionalism strengthen our teams and make our emergency services better. Thank you for everything you do for the citizens of Red Deer. Happy International Women’s Day. #RedDeerFirefighters #IAFF1190 #InternationalWomensDay #WomenInEmergencyServices #WomenInFire #WomenInEMS #WomenInDispatch #RedDeer #CommunitySafety

Daylight Saving Time reminder ⏰ Before you go to bed Saturday: • Set your clocks forward • Test your smoke alarms Working smoke alarms save lives. #RedDeer #RedDeerFirefighters #FirePrevention #SmokeAlarm #CommunitySafety

We are deeply saddened by the tragedy in Tumbler Ridge. To the families grieving and the community mourning: we see you, and we stand with you. As fellow first responders, we honor the courage of the crews on the ground and offer our full support to the people of Tumbler Ridge. You are not alone in this.

With the holiday season coming to an end, we are happy to pickup and dispose of your Christmas trees once again this year! All you need to do is: 1) Make a donation on our website reddeerfirefighterschildrens… 2) Provide the address where we can find your tree 3) Leave it on your front lawn for us to grab the morning of Monday, January 12th

🩸Sirens for Life is back in Red Deer 🩸 The 26th annual Sirens for Life campaign is officially underway, with members from Red Deer Emergency Services and the Red Deer RCMP rolling up their sleeves at Canadian Blood Services to kick things off. As first responders, we see firsthand how donated blood saves lives, from serious collisions to medical emergencies and cancer treatments. That’s why this campaign matters. Throughout January, Red Deer Emergency Services and the RCMP are also taking part in a friendly competition, tracking donations to see who can rally the most support from members, family, friends, and the community all for a great cause. Winter can be a tough time for blood supplies, but the need never slows down. If you’re able, consider booking an appointment and helping make a difference. 📅 Donate this January 📍 Book at blood.ca, through the GiveBlood app, or call 1-888-2-DONATE One donation can help save multiple lives. Thank you, Red Deer, for supporting Sirens for Life. #SirensForLife #DonateBlood #GiveBloodSaveLives #RedDeer #CommunityStrong

Early this morning, crews responded to a structure fire in Station 3’s area. Thanks to a rapid response and a coordinated fire attack, firefighters were able to contain the fire to the attached garage of a duplex, preventing further extension into the residence. No injuries were reported. A strong reminder of how quick action and teamwork make a difference.

January is Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month. Firefighters face unique health risks that don’t always show up on the fireground. Exposure adds up over a career and often follows us home long after the call is over. Reducing risk starts with awareness, smart habits, and taking care of ourselves and each other. Early screening and prevention matter. We protect our community. We must also protect our own.

As we say goodbye to this year and welcome the next, we want to wish everyone a happy, healthy New Year. If you’re celebrating tonight, please do so safely! Plan a ride home, don’t drink and drive, keep an eye on friends and loved ones, and make smart choices so everyone makes it home. Here’s to a safe night and a bright year ahead. Happy New Year! 🥂

If you’ve walked through downtown Red Deer, you’ve likely noticed the familiar bronze figures frozen in motion; horses eager to move, a driver ready to go, a moment from our city’s early days captured in time. This image reimagines one of those historic scenes with a touch of Christmas magic, blending Red Deer’s past with the warmth of the season. From the echoes of fire bells and wagon wheels to the glow of holiday lights, some traditions, and some stories never fade. Wishing our community a Merry Christmas filled with history, heart, and a little winter magic. ✨❄️

Today, dynamic staffing has been paused following collaborative discussions with City administration. We want to thank Interim Chief Schaefer, Mayor, and Council for working with us toward a resolution that prioritizes safe staffing for our members and the community we serve. To our members, their families, and the citizens of Red Deer, thank you for standing together and trusting us as we continue to advocate for public safety. We look forward to continued open communication as we work toward a safer fire department and a safer city.