Taylor Fire Rescue responded to 196 calls for service in 2025

TAYLOR, B.C — Taylor Fire Rescue (TFR) responded to 196 calls for service in 2025, matching the number of calls in 2024, according to the 2025 annual report. 

During the June 15th District of Taylor special council meeting, staff presented the 2025 annual report, which included the district’s protective service year-end review. 

Taylor’s protective services department, which is led by the director of protective services and fire chief, Steve Byford, welcomed the deputy fire chief, John Hicks, in September. 

The district’s TFR is currently supported by 23 fire services personnel, including six junior firefighters. It responded to 196 calls for service, matching the total number of calls attended in 2024.

In 2025, two members joined TRF’s entry-level officer program, and they are expected to qualify as duty officers this year. 

To help with the Kelly Lake wildfire in 2025, TRF deployed one of its acting lieutenants to assist with the deployment of the Peace River Regional District (PRRD) – Charlie Lake tender. 

To strengthen TRF’s capabilities, the department received a $150 million provincial investment to support the Next Generation 911 (NG911) initiative, which enhances location tracking, enables real-time text communication and allows for future video sharing. 

The department has also upgraded and installed computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems to help reduce response times to emergency calls. 

TRF also partnered with Wounded Warriors Canada to provide members and their families with mental health services support through education, counselling and training.  

The district’s bylaw services section within protective services reported and investigated 68 complaints and, in collaboration with corporate services, updated the district’s Zoning Bylaw. 

The district joined the cities of Fort St. John and Dawson Creek in 2025, collaborating to implement a provincially regulated requirement under the Emergency and Disaster Management Act (EDMA), which mandated local authorities to consult and cooperate with Indigenous governing bodies through all phases of disaster management. 

TRF volunteers participated in multiple local events and initiatives, including Emergency Preparedness Week and the Taylor Fire Rescue Association’s Mother’s Day breakfast.