Switch to new fire department radio system in 2025 approved by Alix village council

Nov. 11, 2022, Alix, Alta. – Alix village council approved switching over to a more modern fire department radio system after a presentation by members of the local fire department.

Fire Chief Darren Hiron and Deputy Fire Chief Cory Anderson presented the department’s 2023 budget, which included future plans to switch to the Alberta first responders radio communication system (AFRRCS).

The proposal to switch to the AFRRCS was included in a five-year draft budget prepared by the regional chief in conjunction with Hiron.

The fire chiefs explained the older radio system currently used by Alix has some issues with dispatch which are usually attributed to the older radio technology and the topography of the Alix region.

The AFRRCS system will eliminate this, plus improve communication with emergency partners like STARS and surrounding municipalities.

Deputy Chief Anderson noted about 80 per cent of Alberta emergency responders use the AFRRCS system.

Councillors unanimously approved both the operating and capital budgets as presented by the fire chiefs.