Lloydminster Fire Department secures funding from Cenovus Energy for additional AFRRCS equipment

Apr. 24, 2024, Lloydminster, Alta. – After receiving funding from Cenovus Energy, the Lloydminster Fire Department will upgrade its communication infrastructure with Alberta First Responders Radio Communications System (AFRRCS) pagers for its paid on-call firefighters.

This funding represents a significant investment in enhancing emergency response capabilities within the Lloydminster region. The AFRRCS two-way radio network allows first responders in municipal, provincial and First Nations agencies across the province to communicate with each other.

“This investment in modern communication technology is crucial for ensuring the safety and efficiency of our emergency responders. With the AFRRCS pagers, our on-call staff will have enhanced communication capabilities, enabling them to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies,” says Fire Chief Aaron Buckingham.

By transitioning to AFRRCS, the Lloydminster Fire Department aims to streamline communication processes, reduce response times, and ensure seamless co-ordination between the emergency 911 dispatchers and firefighters.

“The Lloydminster Fire Department and its communication centre counterpart play pivotal roles in fostering a secure environment and responding adeptly to emergencies, embodying a unified dedication to public safety,” adds Buckingham. “All technological improvements provide a quicker and more efficient response for all agencies serving the public – seconds save minutes, and minutes save lives.”

With call volumes for fire services steadily increasing, investing in the latest communication technology underscores the department’s commitment to providing prompt and effective emergency services to the region.

“On behalf of the department, I want to express our gratitude for Cenovus Energy’s investment in our community’s safety. Their support plays a crucial role in ensuring that we can continue to provide the highest level of emergency response services to the Lloydminster region.”

Upon receipt and implementation of the equipment, which is expected later this year, the legacy radio system will be decommissioned, ensuring alignment with the current AFRRCS system across all communication platforms.

The Lloydminster Fire Department initially transferred to AFRRCS in 2020 following purchasing 22 radios to meet updated communication capabilities. The provincial system went into operation in 2016.