02/26/2026
On this date, 25 years ago (Feb 25, 2001), Ashcroft Fire Rescue received its first call through our fire dispatch located at Kamloops Fire Rescue's #1 hall. 25 years later, we are still going strong with this fantastic group of individuals. Last year, the Ashcroft Firefighters association voted unanimously to present our dispatching team with a 25-year exemplary service award. Goodness knows we have gone through some difficult and not-so-difficult calls together over the years. This is our small way of saying thank you for all you do.
There are two things I would like to mention.
The first is to our dispatchers, to those who have moved away, retired, or are still donning that headset at the beginning of your shift. You are all our heroes. Yes, a lot of voices have come and gone over the radio, but we are so very thankful for each and every one of you.
The second comment I would like to say goes out to my fellow colleagues in the first responder community. I've been around a minute or two, and I can say that I've been in the fire service without dispatch and I've been in the fire service with them. I can honestly tell you it is far better to work with a dispatcher than it is without. The best word of advice I can offer is, don't ever take dispatchers for granted. There is no such thing as 'just a dispatcher.' They are an absolute critical and essential part of your team. Without them, well, all I can say is good luck running command while you make a dozen or so calls to bring in extra resources, don't forget your benchmarks and time stamps. 😉
Again, on behalf of a grateful crew out here in Ashcroft, you have our thanks for a fantastic 25 years of dispatching. We look forward to working with you all (and future dispatchers) for many more years to come. 🚒🚒🚒❤️🚒🚒🚒
Chief Joshua White
Ashcroft Fire Rescue