The Terrace Fire Department has transitioned to a 24-hour shift pattern on a trial basis. The trial period for the new shift pattern is three years.
Being the most prevalent pattern in North American fire services, Terrace will now be one of numerous Canadian cities that have trialed this pattern over the past 10-15 years.
“A lot of legwork started early in 2023 with the union approaching fire administration while running a trial for 24-hour shift,” Chief Chad Cooper told The Terrace Standard.
As of Jan. 2, the department transitioned from its previous shift system comprising two 10-hour day shifts followed by two 14-hour night shifts with a subsequent four-day rest period. Under the new arrangement, firefighters work one 24-hour day, take a 24-hour break, then work a second day followed by a five-day rest period.
Cooper asserts the trial will cause no disruption in service delivery or reduction in public safety. The 24-hour shift pattern has been designed to be cost neutral and the implementation of the new shift pattern has net zero impact on the budget, he set.
“For the next three years, we will be using a steering committee to further analyze all aspects of the 24-hour shift (including) sleep patterns, work fatigue, response times and just see if there’s any impacts with the change in the shift,” Cooper said. He is anticipating the 24-hour shift will enhance the efficiency of the department and the well-being of staff, while upholding the currently high standard of service provided.
Last year, the fire department received approval for the budget of hiring two more firefighters in the region.
“So, with the two additional firefighters, we’ll have guaranteed two firefighters minimum staffing 24/7. We had some deficiencies with a couple of firefighters short and maintaining the two firefighters on duty 24/7 with approved leaves,” Cooper said.
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In an attempt to encourage more firefighters in the region, the fire chief mentioned they are looking at getting into the high schools and promoting a career in fire services and maybe doing a youth camp throughout the summer.
“We are also looking for a few days of sessions for the females to choose to break through the barriers. The fire services are inclusive,” he added.
The chief thanked the city and the residents for being extremely supportive and has a vision to provide world-class services to residents.
“I just want to continue to look to excel and make improvements through the fire department here and just provide the best, cost-effective service to our residents,” Cooper said.
Cooper joined the Terrace Fire Department last year in June, following the retirement of former chief, John Klie.