Truck Specifications:
Station & Apparatus
- Station History
- Rapid Response 116
- Engine 116
- Engine 117
- Aerial 116
- Tender 116
- Marine 116
- Marine 117
- UTV 116
- ARU 116
- Historical 116
Fire Station History
Chestermere Fire Services (CFS) currently operates out of a station located at 162 East Chestermere Drive.
The origins of CFS trace back to late 1979/early 1980 when Wayne Paquette and Roy Berg established the Summer Village of Chestermere Lake Fire Protection Group. The village office, which included a two-bay fire hall, was completed in September 1979 at 156 East Chestermere Drive. Prior to this, the first fire hall was a small structure at 111 East Chestermere Drive, near the water, which served as a first aid station and housed a 1952 Ford truck with a gas-powered water pump.
In 1996, an expansion was made to the fire hall to accommodate a small kitchen for volunteers, an office for the Fire Chief, a training area, and a floor drain in the hose tower. In the early 2000s, an ATCO trailer was added to provide additional space, followed by the construction of a large garage bay to house trucks that were previously parked outside. In late 2009, this bay was relocated to the public works yard to make room for a new fire hall.
By 2009, CFS had responded to 864 calls. Planning for a new fire hall was already underway as the department’s growing fleet of trucks and staff had outgrown the 30-year-old, 1485-square-foot facility.
In 2011, with grant funding from the Alberta Provincial Government, a new six-bay fire hall was built to better serve the department. The new facility includes a training room, large kitchen, and ample space for all apparatus.
With the rapid expansion of the community, CFS is working to establish a second fire hall to ensure comprehensive coverage and enhance protection for the west side of the City.
Rapid Response 116
Rapid Response 116 (RR116) is a versatile Type 5 Engine designed to handle a wide range of emergency situations, both independently and in coordination with EN-116 and other Chestermere apparatus. RR116 primarily responds to medical emergencies, grass and wildland fires, water and ice rescues, as well as providing support for vehicle accidents and other incidents as needed.
Built to meet Alberta’s Wildland Urban Interface Guidelines, RR116 is equipped with a 310 GPM fire pump, a 400-gallon water tank, and a 20-gallon foam tank, enabling efficient pump-and-roll operations with a front monitor. It also carries SCBAs, BLS medical kits, a Holmatro Combi Tool, and carbon monoxide and gas detectors, ensuring comprehensive support across a variety of emergency scenarios.
- 2023 F550, Type 5 Engine
- Fire pump 310 GPM (1173 litres per min) Meeting NFPA 1906, also heated for winter.
- Water tank of 400 Gal
- Foam tank 20 Gal
- Full pump and roll with front monitor.
- Fully wildland capable
- Can tow Marine 116 (M116) and Marine 117 (M117)
- Custom built by Acres for Chestermere
Engine 116
Engine 116 is a Type 1 Structural Engine custom-designed by Chestermere Fire Services to address the unique needs of the City of Chestermere. As the department’s primary frontline pumper, Engine 116 is deployed to a wide range of emergency incidents, including structure fires, motor vehicle collisions, medical emergencies, and hazardous material responses. Its robust design ensures reliable performance across various scenarios, making it an essential asset in the city’s firefighting and emergency response capabilities.
Engine 116 is equipped with a seating capacity for five personnel and is typically staffed with four fully trained firefighters. The truck’s spacious compartments are designed to carry a comprehensive array of rescue and firefighting equipment, enhancing its versatility on scene. From specialized tools for structural firefighting to medical and rescue gear, Engine 116 ensures that firefighters are fully equipped to respond quickly and effectively. You will frequently see Engine 116 in service around the city, providing a vital presence in the protection and safety of Chestermere’s residents.
Truck Specifications:
- 2009 Rosenbauer custom enclosed top mount pumper on a Spartan Gladiator cab and chassis
- Engine: Cat C13 525hp
- Transmission: Allison evs4000
- Internal ladder storage
- 2000gpm midship fire rated pump with electronic valve controls
- Water tank holds 800 gallons
- Custom built by Rosenbauer for the City of Chestermere
- Purchased via Provincial Funding
Engine 117
Engine 117 is the ultimate interface vehicle. The Rosenbauer Timberwolf is designed to meet both the requirements of a Type 1 structural pumper and a Type 3 off-road, wildland, fire-fighting vehicle. Chestermere Fire Services uses Engine 117 for a variety of emergency incidents, including wild-land fires and motor vehicle collisions. Engine 117 can seat up to four rescue personnel.
Truck Specifications:
- 2014 Rosenbauer
- Engine: 9 Litre 330hp
- 1000gpm multi-stage pump (high flow, high pressure and foam applications)
- Water tank holds 750 gallons
- Full complement of Paratech rescue equipment for vehicle stabilization
- Full complement of Halmatro rescue tools for vehicle extrication
- Custom built by Rosenbauer for the City of Chestermere
- Purchased via Provincial funding
Aerial 116
In March 2006, Chestermere Fire Services began exploring the benefits of adding an aerial truck to its fleet after responding to several house fires in 2005-2006, which required mutual aid from Calgary Fire Department. Observing the capabilities of a ladder truck, the department recognized the additional safety and protection it could provide to Chestermere’s rapidly growing community. After evaluating the costs of building and maintaining an aerial truck, CFS presented a budget proposal to Chestermere’s Council, which approved the purchase and secured government funding through an Infrastructure Grant, contributing approximately $1 million to the project.
Aerial 116, built in 2007 on a Spartan chassis, features a Metz boom and outriggers, which were installed in Germany, followed by compartment lockers from Rosenbauer in the U.S. The department chose Metz for its versatile bi-directional arm, offering greater flexibility. One of the unique features of Aerial 116 is its raised roof, which allows for more room in the cab compared to other ladder trucks. Despite its 12’6” height, the truck easily fits under surrounding bridge clearances while providing additional interior space for crew members.
Truck Specifications:
- 2009 Rosenbauer T-Rex Aerial Articulating Ladder Truck, Spartan Chassis, Metz Boom
- Engine: Caterpillar C-13 525HP
- 2000gpm fire rated water pump
- Water tank holds 300 gallons
- Ladder Reach: 105 feet
- Weight: 85,800 lbs
- Custom built by Rosenbauer for the City of Chestermere
- Purchased via Provincial funding
Tender 116
Tender 116 is a Type 2 Tactical Tender, designed for use in rural fire situations where a municipal hydrant system is not available. This specialized apparatus plays a critical role in maintaining an uninterrupted water supply during fire operations by working in tandem with water tenders from other fire departments. Tender 116 is equipped with a large water tank and powerful pumping system, enabling it to deliver essential water to remote fire scenes and support continuous firefighting efforts. Its capacity to transport and supply water in areas without hydrants ensures that firefighters can effectively combat fires, even in the most challenging and isolated locations.
Additionally, Tender 116 enhances the overall firefighting capabilities of the department by improving operational flexibility and ensuring the safety of responders. By providing a reliable water source, it supports both structural and wildland firefighting operations, contributing to the overall effectiveness of fire suppression efforts.
Truck Specifications:
- 2013 Mack Granite 713 455HP
- 5000 LPM Fire rated pump with Pump and Roll Capability
- Water tank holds 14000 Litres (3000 gallons)
- 2x 1700 gallon portable tanks
- Top mounted command light
- Full complement of rescue tools
- Full hose complement
- Custom built by Rosenbauer for the City of Chestermere
- Purchased by Provincial funding
Marine 116
Marine 116 is a Kanter Marine Lethal Rigid-Hulled Inflatable Boat (RHIB), specifically engineered for high-performance operations in demanding conditions. Known for its rugged construction and reliability, Marine 116 is designed to excel in a variety of roles, including water rescues, patrols, and emergency responses. Used by numerous government agencies and private sectors for critical tasks, this vessel provides unmatched durability and versatility on the water. Whether responding to an emergency or supporting search and rescue missions, Marine 116 is built to handle extreme conditions with ease.
The design of Marine 116 incorporates heavy-duty, full-depth transverse and longitudinal framing, reinforced with thick plating to ensure maximum durability and extended service life. This robust construction allows operators to push the vessel to its limits with confidence, knowing it can withstand intense use without compromising safety or integrity. Additionally, the boat features watertight, quick-draining decks and below-deck buoyancy compartments, providing enhanced stability and safety. Marine 116 is a powerful, dependable asset that guarantees optimal performance in the most challenging waterborne environments.
Boat Specifications:
- 2014 Kanter Marine 6m Open Lethal
- Engine: 2 x 135 Outboards
- Length: 6.6m (21.6 Feet)
- Beam: 2.57m (8.43 Feet)
- Hull Draft: .360m (1.18 Feet)
- Deadrise: 16 degrees
- Dry Weight: 1800 kg
- Fuel Capacity: 200 litres
- Speed: +40 knots
- Purchased via Provincial funding
Marine 117
The Sea-Doo Search and Rescue (SAR) watercraft is a vital tool for Chestermere Fire Services, enhancing our ability to respond quickly and effectively to water-based emergencies. Designed for high-performance in challenging conditions, the Sea-Doo SAR combines cutting-edge technology with rugged reliability, making it ideal for a wide range of rescue scenarios. Whether responding to drowning incidents in Chestermere Lake, providing swift rescue during floods, or assisting in other water-related emergencies, the Sea-Doo SAR is equipped to perform under the most demanding circumstances.
Its speed, agility, and versatility make it an essential tool for swift water rescues, allowing our crews to quickly reach those in distress and provide life-saving assistance. By going the extra mile in performance and reliability, the Sea-Doo SAR ensures that Chestermere Fire Services is prepared to protect lives, even in the most critical situations where every second counts.
Boat Specifications:
- 2014 Sea-Doo Search and Rescue
- Engine: 1503 NA Rotax 4-TEC 1,494cc
- Provides reliable performance in fresh or salt-water, increased torque at low RPM, optimized power at all RPM levels and throttle positions.
- Length: 133.4”
- Width: 66.8”
- Weight: 969 lbs (dry)
- iTC (Intelligent Throttle Control). Because the throttle responds to electric signal instead of a cable, the engine is more precisely calibrated and delivers better fuel economy and low operating cost.
- D-Sea-Bel System. Combines a series of resonators and vibration-absorbing components to make Sea-Doo watercraft some of the quietest on the water.
- Dual sponsons: Made of professional grade CSM (Hypalon), the sponsons offer greater stability and buoyancy.
- Heavy-duty front bumper
- Hull Coating: 2.8mm shock and abrasion protective elastomer coating.
- Rescue sled attachment system
- Mast: Carbon fiber rear mast with navigation light
- Front navigation lights
- Shallow water navigation kit. Composed of the anti-debris water intake grate, the stainless steel wear ring, the internal heat exchanger and shock-protected cooling system, the SAR significantly improve the PWC shallow water capability.
- Off-Throttle Assisted Steering (O.T.A.S). Provides operator with additional steering effect in off-throttle situations for greater maneuverability.
- Purchased via Provincial funding
UTV 116
As the City of Chestermere continues to grow and the popularity of recreational activities increases, the need for specialized vehicles to respond to emergencies in challenging environments has become essential. UTV 116, a versatile utility terrain vehicle, is integral to Chestermere Fire Services’ response capabilities, especially in areas with difficult access. In winter months, UTV 116 is primarily used on the lake and ponds, allowing fire crews to reach individuals in distress or to perform water rescues in frozen conditions. During the summer, the UTV excels in navigating pathways, trails, and other hard-to-reach areas, ensuring that emergency services can be delivered swiftly, regardless of the terrain.
UTV 116 plays a critical role in patient transport in environments that larger vehicles cannot access. Its lightweight and agile design allow it to move quickly through off-road areas, whether responding to wildfires, medical emergencies, or other incidents in remote sections of the city. The vehicle also serves as a joint asset with Chestermere Peace Officers, improving their ability to respond to emergencies in difficult-to-reach locations. By collaborating with peace officers, Chestermere Fire Services ensures a more coordinated and effective response in challenging environments, ultimately improving the safety and well-being of residents and visitors.
UTV Specifications:
- 2018 Defender HD10 XT CAB
- Engine: 72hp, Rotax 976 cc, V-twin
- PRO-TORQ transmission with Quick Response System (QRS)
- True 4-mode traction system
- Length: 122.2”
- Width: 67”
- Weight: 1844 lbs. (dry)
- Full Cab Enclosure
- Towing Capacity: 2000 lbs.
- 4500 lbs. Winch
- Purchased via Provincial funding
ARU 116
The Aquatics Response Unit (ARU 116) is a vital, all-purpose vehicle utilized by Chestermere Fire Services to support a wide range of aquatic and ice rescue operations. This highly versatile unit is specially equipped with a full array of ice and water rescue tools, including life-saving gear and specialized equipment necessary for responding to emergencies on both open water and frozen surfaces. ARU 116 is designed to operate efficiently in challenging conditions, enabling our team to respond rapidly to rescue calls in Chestermere Lake, ponds, and other water bodies, as well as on ice-covered areas during winter months.
In addition to its primary function of transporting rescue equipment, ARU 116 is also responsible for towing Marine 116, our rigid-hulled inflatable boat, to various locations where water rescues are needed. The vehicle’s off-road capabilities allow it to access pathways, trails, and other hard-to-reach areas, including frozen ponds or lakes, ensuring that rescue operations can continue without delay, even in difficult or hazardous terrain. Whether it is towing equipment, transporting rescue personnel, or providing the necessary tools to carry out rescues, ARU 116 plays a critical role in enhancing Chestermere Fire Services’ ability to respond effectively to emergencies on the water and ice.
Truck Specifications:
- 2017 Ford Super Duty F-350
- 4WD Crew Cab
- Engine: 6.2L V8Automatic Transmission
- 35in Tires
- 360 Degree Camera
Historical 116
Chestermere’s first fire truck, a 1952 Ford, was purchased in 1961 by the Chestermere Cabin Owner’s Association. In those early days, when there was no formal fire department, the truck was stored in a shed and used on an as-needed basis by the Association. In 1979, the truck became the first unit for the Summer Village of Chestermere Lake Fire Protection Group, serving the community until its retirement in 1981. After its service, the truck was purchased by Jack Meier, who repurposed it into a welding vehicle. In 2011, the Meier family generously donated the historic fire truck to the Chestermere Historical Foundation, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
The restoration of Chestermere’s first fire truck began in earnest over six years ago, with Vince Young overseeing the careful process. The project has received significant support from the community, including Zane Southgate of Zeebs Performance, who donated his time to much of the restoration work, and Ken Friesen of Concours Collision, who generously painted the vehicle at no charge. Firefighter Keith Burley also played a key role in completing the restoration. Today, this iconic piece of Chestermere’s history is proudly displayed in the fire hall and can be seen at various community events, serving as a lasting reminder of the city’s fire service roots.
Truck Specifications:
- Original Ford Specifications:
- 1952 Ford
- V8 Flat Head Motor
- 4 speed Manual Transmission
- Custom Flat Deck
- 250 gallon Water Tank