North Whatcom Fire and Rescue (NWFR) call volumes have almost doubled in the last 10 years, exceeding 5,300 calls through November 2023. Calls for emergency medical service (EMS) now account for almost 72 percent of all emergencies. Overlapping calls occur 30 percent of the time – that’s when multiple emergencies happen at the same time. This leads to increased response times and delays in reaching emergency scenes.
Although five firefighters were hired in 2023, finding qualified candidates to fill five more existing vacancies remains challenging.
The fire district’s revenue is not keeping up with higher call volumes and costs to provide service. The fire district is limited to a one percent revenue increase per year per state law – and this is no longer adequate to meet our community’s emergency service level needs.
NWFR is considering asking voters for a fire levy lid lift sometime in 2024 to fund additional personnel and replace aging fire engines and apparatus. If approved by voters, this would be the first levy lid lift in almost 20 years. Community members can learn more on our website at nwfrs.net/about-nwfr.
In addition to responding to emergencies, NWFR was excited to be able to participate in the Community Assistance Program Thanksgiving basket giveaway and Community Toy Store, trick or treating on the berm, multiple “drive-bys” celebrating birthdays and preschool visits.
NWFR would like to give special recognition to the dedicated volunteers who make up the volunteer water supply group, known to us as the “tender group.” The fire district is grateful for your continued commitment and service.
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