Clarity on potentially enhanced fire protection services for Nanaimo River Rd. and South Forks Rd. residents could become more clear in the new year. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

fire protection

Fire protection recommendations for Nanaimo River residents expected in new year

Dec 12, 2022 | 5:23 AM

NANAIMO — Future service options could maternalize next month on the future of firefighting protection in the Nanaimo River area.

A Regional District of Nanaimo engagement summary impacting 72 properties in the Nanaimo River Fire Protection Service Area (NRFPSA) saw responses from residents of 38 properties and was recently endorsed by the RDN board.

A feasibility study compiled by a consultant is expected to presented during a Jan. 12 Electoral Area Services Committee meeting, where options and recommendations can be considered by committee members, according to the RDN.

Fifty-three per cent of engagement survey respondents stated they were either in favour of having an apparatus storage garage constructed or a satellite fire hall built.

Notably, as the future of fire protection services in the Nanaimo River area are explored, the RDN reported higher insurance premiums for NRFPSA residents are likely.

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The RDN noted a mapping error by the Fire Underwriters Survey reflected the fact NRFPSA members rely on water tenders as opposed to hydrants for fire protection services.

As of Nov. 1 2022 no insurance industry-recognized fire protection is in place for the area, the RDN’s engagement summary report stated.

“It should be noted that respondents to the RDN survey may not have had full awareness of the pending change to the Dwelling Protection Grades and the potential that property insurance premiums could increase,” the report stated.

A capital reserve fund of nearly $220,000 for fire protection services has been built up since the NRFPSA was established in 2005.

Existing fire protection services for Nanaimo River residents is currently provided by the Extension Volunteer Fire Department.

Additional information and documents examining potential changes to fire protection services for Nanaimo River Rd. and South Forks Rd. residents can be found here.

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