Navigating Emergencies: Woodfibre LNG Helps Elevate Pemberton Fire Rescue’s Road Rescue Capabilities

Pemberton Fire Rescue protects the Village of Pemberton and parts of the surrounding rural areas, covering over 500 square kilometres. Pemberton Fire Rescue is staffed by 40 paid-on-call volunteer firefighters who protect local homes and businesses with three specialized fire trucks that help them tackle a range of emergencies, from house fires to industrial fires and rescue operations.

As the region grows and more tourists discover the area, there has been a rising rate of incidents requiring emergency services. On average, the Pemberton Fire Rescue handles a staggering 430 calls annually. Approximately 30 percent of these calls involve medical emergencies and outdoor recreation accidents. To meet increasing emergency demands and enhance the readiness of their firefighters, Pemberton Fire Rescue applied for Woodfibre LNG Community Partnership grant funding to acquire new rope rescue equipment.

“By equipping our firefighters with upgraded equipment, we aim to improve their efficiency, response times, and overall effectiveness in serving our community, particularly in response to motor vehicle accidents and low or high angle rope rescue situations along Highway 99 in the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District “. Pemberton Fire Rescue Chief Cameron Adams.

Rope rescue is a specialized emergency response that utilizes specialized rope and gear to gain access to or remove patients from hazardous locations like mountains, high-rise buildings, or below-grade structures. Rope rescue is often the only option in situations where access is limited. Through the Community Partnership Program, Woodfibre LNG was pleased to be able to support the Pemberton Fire Rescue with grant funding to acquire road rope rescue equipment crucial for low-angle situations. The equipment procured includes:

• Harnesses with advanced features and technology that can improve firefighters’ ability to handle a wide range of emergencies.
• Helmets for rescuers to improve safety and confidence in emergency situations.
• Up-to-date belay equipment supporting the Twin Tension System in road rescue.

The Twin Tension Rope System represents a significant advancement in rescue technology, boasting both a mainline and a back-up function that operate concurrently. The design enables two operators to work together to ensure precise control over the descent of rescue loads while maintaining a consistent speed. By minimizing fall distance and reducing the tension on the ropes, this system enhances safety and efficiency during rescue operations, helping rescuers work more effectively, safely and confidently.

Michael Marchment, a Pemberton Fire Rescue Wildfire Mitigation Specialist, and paid-on-call volunteer, emphasized the importance of this equipment, stating, “Equipping our volunteers with the latest safety gear and equipment ensures their well-being while responding to emergencies. This directly contributes to maintaining a reliable and capable pool of responders for the community.”

“Up-to-date rescue equipment is designed to be more efficient and user-friendly, allowing our responders to deploy it quickly. It also increases the likelihood of successful rescue operations, positively impacting the outcomes of various emergencies, such as car accidents, medical crises, or natural disasters.” Michael added.

Pemberton Fire Rescue’s new rope rescue equipment provides them with a new and valuable tool to keep their growing community safe. Woodfibre LNG’s decision to invest in Pemberton Fire Rescue was made recognizing how critical their services are to fostering a safe and thriving local community.

The Community Partnership Program provides up to $5,000 to community and non-profit organizations involved in the following categories: sports and recreation, health and wellness, arts and culture, employment and skills training, and local search and rescue and marine safety organizations. Program intakes occur in the spring and fall.