Department Profile
Nanaimo Fire Rescue Department is made up of 6 divisions:
- Operations - The largest division which is responsible for emergency medical services, fire suppression, mitigation of disasters and rescue activities.
- Fire & Loss Prevention - A four-person team responsible for fire investigations, fire inspections, fire plans checking and public education.
- Education and Training - Responsible for the design, development and implementation of the education and training program for a combined career and on call staff of 180 people. Ensures that educational programs include the most up-to-date techniques and methods.
- Infomatics and Communication - A dedicated group who receive and dispatch 911 calls for assistance to Nanaimo Fire Rescue as well as 26 other fire departments within the central island region.
- Nanaimo Emergency Management - Guides emergency management actions in the City of Nanaimo by reducing the likelihood and impact of major emergencies and disasters.
- Administration - dedicated professionals, both uniformed and non-uniformed, who help keep responders ready for action.
From Fire Chief Ron Lambert's Office
There was a day when the Fire Chief was on the front line directing troops with an ornate speaking trumpet. In today's complicated world, the Fire Chief is an administrator and direction is provided through strategic plans, goals and objectives and performance measures, all of which define the level of fire protection service provided to the citizens of the community. Further, responsibility for fire protection is now shared between public and private sectors. Statutes, codes and regulations are 
more complex than ever and the administration for fire services is as dynamic as any business. The Fire Chief is responsible for planning, organizing, directing, staffing and controlling the delivery of fire protection services. A whole new leadership philosophy has to be in place utilizing tools like performance objectives, fiscal management, resource management and human resource management in order to manage today's fire department.
Behind the Scenes
Nanaimo Fire Rescue Department's service to the public consists of more than just fighting fires and responding to emergency calls. Nanaimo Fire Rescue Department's Administration Division (known as the Command and Business Centre) is located in downtown Nanaimo to be accessible to all five fire stations. Assisting the Fire Chief are:
- Deputy Chief - Operations
- Deputy Chief - Administration
- (4) Assistant Chief - Operations: take turns as Duty Chief
- Assistant Chief, Education & Training
- Emergency Program Manager
- Clerical Support Team - consisting of an Administrative Assistant, Logistics Clerk and Fire Clerk.
This team works closely to keep the organization oiled and the rubber on the road.
Headquarters location:
580 Fitzwilliam Street, Nanaimo, BC V9R 6E2 Telephone (250) 753-7311 Fax (250) 753-5480
Hours: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm (Monday to Friday) Email us at: fireinfo@nanaimo.ca
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