Year in Review: North Whatcom Fire and Rescue

North Whatcom Fire and Rescue (NWFR) responded to 4,752 calls through November 2019. Almost 71 percent of those calls were for emergency medical assistance; four percent of the calls were for fires. The remaining 25 percent of calls were for false alarms, public assists and hazardous conditions.

Chief Joe Noonchester was appointed to act as the interim fire chief in January and filled the role until mid-November. Chief Jason Van der Veen was appointed to division chief of operations while the district explores its vision for the future.

Two new members were hired as career firefighters in June, while two volunteer firefighters completed their EMT training. Up to five firefighters were expected to be hired in December. They will attend the North Bend Academy in January.

Division chief/fire marshal Henry Hollander retired in May, following a 26-year career in the fire service. Division chief/fire marshal Herschel Rostov was hired in May to develop an in-depth community risk reduction program.

Scott Fischer was voted in as a new fire commissioner and will begin serving his six-year term in January.

It is expected that the district’s master plan will reveal efficiencies allowing NWFR to provide better services moving forward.

Approximately 460 community members completed the district’s free CPR classes held once a month at various stations in the district’s response area. Approximately 80 citizens completed first aid training. The only cost to participants was food donations (600 cans collected) which were donated to area food banks.

NWFR participated in multiple community events and fundraisers including the 9/11 Peace Arch memorial service, Blaine’s Fourth of July parade and fireworks, Blaine’s back to school fair, Pumpkin Party, Hogs and Horses Car Show and Santa Run. NWFR also assisted with the Community Assistance Program’s Thanksgiving Baskets giveaway and community dinners.

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.