Saanich is getting nearly $300,000 to upgrade its fire dispatch services as part of the province’s investment in emergency communication systems.
The lump sum is meant to be invested in technology upgrades, business continuity measures, training, and mapping. These improvements aim at boosting emergency response and preparing for the next generation of emergency services.
"Firefighters help our community members in need, and respond with efficiency, care, and professionalism to every situation," said Lana Popham, MLA for Saanich South. "With this funding, Saanich Fire dispatch will be improved to better serve community members and the first responders we rely on."
The funding comes as part of B.C.’s $150-million investment to prepare for Next Generation 911, a system that will allow dispatchers to receive additional information from callers, including photos and videos.
Of that, $90 million was allocated to E-Comm, which handles 99 per cent of the province’s 911 call volume.
The remaining $60 million is being distributed to municipalities through the Union of B.C. Municipalities for costs such as staffing, training, and quality assurance.
