BC is freeing up money to improve emergency response from local fire departments.

Most communities in B.C. rely on volunteer firefighters to protect people, homes, and businesses when a fire breaks out.

The province is providing access to enhanced training opportunities and more equipment.

It’s also providing funding for education campaigns aimed at teaching people how to prevent fires and stay safe.

The funding includes more than $3 million for community firefighting training, the purchase of new or replacement fire equipment such as hoses and first-aid kits, as well as support for rural fire departments by providing regional access to joint fire training.

The province says the funding builds on $6.3 million provided to more than 100 volunteer and composite fire departments earlier this year for equipment and training.

To learn more, visit Government of British Columbia.