As part of its move to an independent fire service, the Town of Stettler has reviewed and updated key fire-related policies.

At the July 22 regular council meeting, town administration presented amendments to its Fire Service Fees Policy and introduced two new documents: a Fire Services Policy and an Emergency Fire Hydrant Access and Use Policy.

The new Fire Services Policy outlines the department’s service levels, operational scope and expectations for all members, including volunteers, paid on-call, and career staff. It confirms that while the department is committed to responding to all emergencies, service may vary based on staffing, training, weather, or other calls.

The policy aligns with provincial legislation and includes an appendix of Standard Operating Guidelines (SOGs), which provide detailed procedures for fire operations. The fire chief can update the SOGs without changing the overall policy.

The updated Fire Service Fees Policy brings Stettler’s billing rates in line with similar municipalities such as Edmonton, Red Deer, and Blackfalds. It clarifies when fees apply and how they’re billed.

A new Hydrant Use Policy is designed to protect the town’s water infrastructure from damage caused by improper use. “It’s a big-ticket item,” noted Legislative Services Coordinator Maddie Standage, in response to Coun. Gord Lawlor’s question about hydrant monitoring. Standage said the water department would be able to detect hydrant use.

The policy sets clear procedures for accessing hydrants, introduces a fee schedule, and establishes penalties for misuse, especially by outside emergency responders.

All three policies are part of the broader transition plan as Stettler prepares to operate its own municipal fire department following the end of its regional agreement with the County of Stettler.