A recruitment drive for new firefighters early in 2024 paid off for the Nicholson Fire Department in Electoral Area A when their community was threatened this summer by the Dogtooth wildfire.
In late July, crews were dispatched to deal with the Dogtooth fire that had jumped Highway 95 at the far end of their service area. Working with Golden Fire Rescue, they were able to hold the fire and stop it from advancing any further to the east side of Highway 95.
“It was not an easy night, but their stand saved several structures and contained the fire to the west side of Highway 95,” says Regional Fire Chief Sean Coubrough.
The Nicholson department continued to respond during the remaining weeks of the wildfire, developing tactical plans to protect the community if the fire advanced. They also helped educate residents on ways to FireSmart their homes to reduce fire risk as much as possible on short notice.
The efforts of the Nicholson Fire Department were acknowledged at the April 17, 2025, Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) Regular Board Meeting with the presentation of the Fire Department of the Year honours.
The award acknowledges more than the department’s efforts during the summer wildfire season. Their focus on recruitment and in-house training included all six of the new recruits who were trained to the exterior firefighter level by the end of the year. More recruits also joined the department, boosting the Nicholson Fire Department to one of its highest levels ever.
“As you all know, with the natural disaster that hit us in Golden and Electoral Area A, having the support of the Nicholson Fire Department was amazing last year,” said Electoral Area Director Karen Cathcart at the April 17, 2025, Board meeting.
“I want to congratulate the department and give them a well-deserved thank-you for everything they do for our communities,” she added.
