2016 Year in Review: North Whatcom Fire and Rescue

By Jennie Sand

North Whatcom Fire and Rescue (NWFR) proudly serves the communities of Blaine, Birch Bay and unincorporated Whatcom County.

NWFR responded to 3,864 calls through November 2016. Almost 64 percent of those calls were for emergency medical assistance; 4 percent of the calls were for fires. The remaining 32 percent of calls were for false alarms, public assists and hazardous conditions.

NWFR currently has over 100 members including administrative staff, mechanics, as well as career and volunteer firefighters.

John Crawford was elected as a fire commissioner and began serving his six-year term in January. Bruce Ansell was appointed fire commissioner in March to fill a vacancy that will end December 31, 2017.

NWFR is in the process of hiring an assistant chief of operations who is expected to begin in early 2017. Five career firefighters were hired in April including David Hancock, Jeff Haley, Zachary Scott, Haley Urling-Ehinger and Levi Wigg.

NWFR adopted a district strategic plan that will run through 2021. This plan is the result of a collaborative effort between all members of our organization and is intended to begin where the previous strategic plan concluded. NWFR also updated the capital facilities plan and mitigation fee program.

NWFR participated in multiple community events and fundraisers such as the Blaine Fourth of July Parade and fireworks, Pumpkin Party, Tree of Wishes and Project Santa and assisted with the Community Assistance Program’s Thanksgiving Basket giveaway and community dinners.

NWFR participated in the 9-11 Memorial Ride and Service to honor those who lost their lives in the horrific attacks in 2001. NWFR was instrumental in spearheading the event on the US side.

NWFR continues a successful consolidation with District 4.

NWFR would also like to thank the community for their continued support of fire and medical emergency services. NWFR would like to give special recognition to the dedicated volunteers that serve throughout the district.

The district is grateful for your continued commitment and service.