The County of Stettler is moving ahead with the purchase of fire equipment as part of plans to outfit a newly established Stettler County Fire Station.
The procurement of key items including personal protective equipment (PPE), extrication tools, lockers, and breathing apparatuses is required to ensure the fire station is operational.
The new facility is being established as the County transitions to a regional fire commission model without the Town of Stettler.
Equipment Breakdown
The procurement totals $391,431 plus GST, plus a $50,000 contingency for the following items:
- PPE Storage Lockers:
CirculAir brand lockers via Associated Fire for $17,250 are recommended over other options ranging from $18,640 to $27,520. - Firefighter PPE Equipment: Estimated at $6,750 per firefighter, up to a maximum of $100,000, covering bunker gear, helmets, gloves, balaclavas, boots, and coveralls for an estimated 15 firefighters.
- Gear Washer/Extractor: A Circul-Air Express Pro (3.6 cu. ft.) for $8,642 was recommended for compatibility with existing infrastructure & mobility.
- Extrication Tools (Jaws-of-Life): The Hurst E-Draulic system, quoted at $57,463.60 from Rocky Mountain Phoenix was the preferred option.
- Rescue Truck Tools: A variety of tools including hand tools, cribbing and wrenches, with a budget of $10,000.
- Breathing Air Compressor: The Jordair FIRE-KAT6-1214 from ElectroGas for $99,081, was recommended to ensure compatibility with compressors in County Fire Stations 2 & 3.
- Classroom Furniture: U-Line tables and chairs at $10,530 were recommended for the station’s training room.
- Office Furniture: Estimated at $6,500 to furnish three offices.
Additional Facility Improvements
Several leasehold improvements were also proposed:
- Bay washroom upgrades with safety shower and SCBA sink: $17,500
- Electrical and air drops for vehicle bays and compressor: $15,000
- Hot water pressure washer system: $10,000
- Rear perimeter fencing and gate: $19,465
- IT and security infrastructure (network, computers, classroom tech): $20,000
The 2025 operating & capital budgets did not account for the new station, but administration confirmed that sufficient funds are available through general and fire reserve accounts.
Council inquired whether these purchases such as the lockers & gear washer would be portable, in order to be able to move in the future if & when the County decides to build a new fire station.
Following the discussion, council approved the recommended items for a total of $441,431 plus GST.
Administration also noted these costs do not take into account any potential revenue from purchasing or selling shared assets currently co-owned with the Town of Stettler.
Author: Landin Chambers
Landin Chambers is a news reporter for Hometown Media Stettler. He has a background in broadcast news, with previous roles in Prince George, Red Deer and Calgary. You may also see him as a cameraman for the Stettler Wildcats and Stettler Imperials. Have a story idea? Email: lchambers@htproductionsmedia.ca
