The Fire Hall
The department now operates out of the newly completed Municipal Services Building; a 1,400-square-metre facility that houses both the fire hall and public works operations. Located behind the Northern Lights Centre, the fire hall features four dedicated bays for fire-related vehicles, shared training spaces, and modern amenities designed to support both emergency response and firefighter development. This state-of-the-art facility replaces the previously rented fire hall used since 1997, offering Watson Lake a permanent, purpose-built home for its fire and emergency services. The building represents a significant investment from all levels of government and serves as a long-term hub for essential municipal services.

Apparatus and Equipment
The Watson Lake Fire Department maintains a versatile and modern fleet to support both structural and wildland fire response, rescue operations, and emergency preparedness. Here's a snapshot of the department's current apparatus and key equipment:

As part of its ongoing commitment to firefighter safety and modernization, the Watson Lake Fire Department recently undertook a major upgrade of its personal protective equipment. With Town Council’s support, the department acquired 16 state-of-the-art Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) packs, 32 spare air cylinders, 24 face masks, and a Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) pack. These new SCBAs replace outdated units from 1997 that no longer met modern safety standards and were costly to maintain. The new gear features advanced safety enhancements such as Heads-Up Displays (HUDs) for air monitoring, high-visibility Scotchlite reflective straps, and ergonomic, easy-to-clean harnesses designed for extended use. In addition, new bunker gear was issued to incoming recruits, ensuring that every firefighter is equipped with dependable, regulation-compliant protective wear from day one. This investment in high-performance gear not only improves on-scene safety but also reinforces the department’s long-term sustainability and readiness goals.

The Watson Lake Fire Department relies on a dedicated team of volunteers who serve as the backbone of the community’s fire and emergency response system. Excluding the full-time Fire Chief, the department currently includes 22 active volunteer members, consisting of captains, firefighters, and firefighter recruits. Volunteers commit their time not only to emergency response but also to intensive weekly training, community outreach, and wildfire preparedness initiatives.
Many members are advancing through the NFPA 1001 Level 1 certification, while new recruits have recently been outfitted with full sets of modern bunker gear and integrated into department operations. The strong turnout and engagement from volunteers reflect the community’s shared commitment to safety, service, and continuous skill development.

Volunteer Firefighter Statistics (As of July 2025)

Answer the Call
If you’re able-bodied, willing to train, and have a passion for helping your community, the Watson Lake Fire Department wants you on the team. Volunteering as a firefighter is one of the most rewarding ways to give back whether you're responding to emergencies, participating in training, or simply standing by to support your neighbors when they need it most. No prior experience is necessary, just commitment, courage, and a desire to make a difference.