alberta’s - design quarry · growth and innovation: a province comes into its own 1947-1986 12...

T h e e v o l u T i o n o f

Alberta’s Public Sa ety

System

1 0 0 y e a r s o f P u b l i c s a f e t y i n a l b e r t a

f

The Evolution of Alberta’s Public Safety System

copyright © 2005 Public safety Division, alberta Municipal affairsall rights reserved.

Photocopying parts of this book for non-profit and educational use is permitted. Please acknowledge the publisher.

isbn: 0-7785-4186-XPublished in canada

C o n T e n T s

The Evolution of Alberta’s Public Safety System 3Establishing a Foundation: The Early Years of the Public Safety System 1885-1946 4 1885 – northwest rebellion . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 1897 – boilers and Pressure Vessels . . . . . . . . . . . 5 1903 – frank slide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 1904 – electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 1905 – alberta becomes a Province . . . . . . . . . . . 6 1913 – fire reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 1914-1918 – the first World War . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 1916 – fire Prevention act . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 1917 – electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 1918-1919 – influenza epidemic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 1922 – elevators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 1922 – first fire commissioner . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 1929 – fire Prevention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 1930-1939 – Great Depression . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 1933 – fire Prevention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 1937 – Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 late 1930s – electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 1938 – elevators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 1939-1945 – the second World War . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 1942 – fire inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 1942 – building . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 MiD 1940s – self liquidating Projects act . . . . . . . . . . 11

Growth and Innovation: A Province Comes into its Own 1947-1986 12 1947 – leduc oil Discovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 1949 – communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 1950 – alberta civil Defence . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 1950 – emergency Health services . . . . . . . . . . 14 1950 – reorganization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 1951 – training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 1952 – electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 1952 – alternate civil Defence Headquarters . . . . . . . . 15 1952 – standardization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 1953 – civil Defence training school . . . . . . . . . . 15 early 1950s – fire Departments . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 1954 – recognition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 1955 – Gas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 1955 – boilers & Pressure Vessels . . . . . . . . . . . 16 1957 – electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 1957 – Gas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 1959 – Passenger ropeways . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 1959 – training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 1960s – emergency Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 1962 – new authorities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 1964 – Gas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 1968 – electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 1974 – Disaster services act . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 1974 – building standards branch established – first Provincial building code . . . . . . . . . . 19 1974 – amusement rides . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 1975 – cost-share Program . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 1975 – fire Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

late 1970s – focussing on children . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 1979 – Propane leak in Millwoods . . . . . . . . . . 20 1982 – sour Gas Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 1983 – elevators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 1984 – alberta fire code . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 1984-1985 – alberta Public safety services . . . . . . . . . . 21 1986 – Disaster assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 1986 – amusement rides . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 1986 – Gas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Taking Stock: A Renewed Vision for the Safety System 1987-2000 23 1987 – tornado (black friday) . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 1988 – General safety services Division Mission . . . . . . . 25 1988 – fire Prevention branch changes focus . . . . . . . 25 1988-1989 – Disaster assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 1990 – building code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 1990-1991 – emergency Preparedness Program – first nations . . . . 25 1991 – fire commissioner’s office . . . . . . . . . . . 26 1992 – emergency Public Warning system (ePWs) . . . . . . 26 1992-1993 – Disaster assistance renamed . . . . . . . . . . 26 1993 – safety codes council . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 1994 – the safety codes act comes into full effect . . . . . . 27 1995 – Government emergency operations centre . . . . . . 27 1995 – education Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 1995 – emergency Public Warning system (ePWs) . . . . . . 27 1995 – a new safety system . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 1998 – ice storm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 1999 – expanded focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 1999 – Government reorganization . . . . . . . . . . 29 2000 – Disaster recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 2000 – environmental clean-up . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Looking Ahead: Building a Safety System for the 21st Century 2001-2005 30 2001 – anhydrous ammonia leak . . . . . . . . . . . 31 2001 – 9/11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 2001 – business resumption Planning initiative . . . . . . . 32 2001 – north-central alberta forest fire Disaster recovery Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 2002 – security for G8 summit . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 2002 – Disaster recovery Program – floods . . . . . . . . 32 2002 – official launch of eMa . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 2002 – alberta emergency services Medal . . . . . . . . 33 2002 – aMber alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 2002 – Municipal Wildfire assistance Program . . . . . . . 33 2003 – safety system review . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 2003 – eMa (emergency Management alberta) . . . . . . . 34 2003 – recognition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 2003 – fire services advisory committee . . . . . . . . 35 2003 – Disaster recovery Programs . . . . . . . . . . 35 2003 – Policy and strategic services . . . . . . . . . . 35 2004 – bill 201, barrier-free Design and access amendments . . . 36 2004 – 2004 Disaster recovery Programs . . . . . . . . 36 2004 – Well explosion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 2005 – eMa Presentation in Washington, D.c. . . . . . . . 37 2005 – aeris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

The Next 100 years... 38

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t H e e V o l u t i o n o f a l b e r t a ’ s P u b l i c s a f e t y s y s t e M

“”

The evoluTion of AlberTA’s Public

sAfeTy sysTem

from steam threshers to multi-million dollar farming outfits, from small coal

mining operations to the massive oil industry, from small rail towns to large

cosmopolitan cities, alberta’s first century has been characterized by amazing

change and evolution, and alberta’s safety system has been a part of that

evolution. alberta has a long history of striving for the highest level of safety

and security possible for its citizens. Whether we examine alberta’s leadership

in safety codes and standards adoption, the long history of fire prevention

programs, or the ground-breaking work done in emergency preparedness

and domestic security, it is clear that this province has a tradition of setting

a strong example for the rest of the country and the world when it comes

to safety.

this timeline focuses on some of the significant public safety events in alberta

throughout its 100 years as a province and even earlier. We hope that it paints

a picture of the work that the dedicated men and women involved in the public

safety system have done since the province’s infancy, and that it illustrates the

tremendous potential of Municipal affairs’ Public safety Division as we move

into alberta’s next century.

...this province has a

tradition of setting a

strong example for the

rest of the country

and the world when it

comes to safety.

�


“”

esTAblishing A foundATion:

The eArly yeArs of The Public sAfeTy

sysTem 1885-1946

Prior to the turn of the last century, alberta was a part of the vast northwest

territories encompassing all of current day alberta, saskatchewan, nunavut

and the modern nWt. this area had seen its first tentative european settlers

as the fur trade expanded west, and slowly, agricultural communities began

to evolve. the cities in the area truly began to grow with the arrival of rail

travel in the 1880s and 90s as easier access to the region prompted an influx

of interested farmers and tradespeople who had heard of the opportunities

available in the west. in 1905, the future of the new province as the

breadbasket of the nation looked bright.

after nearly 10 years as a province, alberta and the rest of the world were fully

ushered into the 20th century through the Great War. Men signed up in large

numbers to journey overseas and fight for their country and the british empire.

the men who returned found their homes had changed over the course of

the war: women had been granted the vote, farms had become increasingly

mechanized, and work was scarce. in 1929, the stock market crash, combined

with land that had been over cultivated to meet war demands, resulted

in economic crisis: a situation that persisted until 1939 – the beginning of

another World War. Men who only 25 years before had left their homes to

face the battlefields of france now watched as their sons left for battles on the

atlantic, in france, Germany and italy.

Rapid change in

technologies from the

late 1800s to the 1940s

resulted in the need

for the development of

safety procedures and

fire protection policies...

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The early years of Alberta’s development as a

province have always been characterized by the

notion of pioneering, and this spirit also existed in

the development of public safety. Rapid change in

technologies from the late 1800s to the 1940s resulted

in the need for the development of safety procedures

and fire protection policies that would help the rapidly

growing province keep its citizens safe in their homes

and at their jobs.

n o r T h w e s T r e b e l l i o n

the conflict between the Métis people of western canada and the federal government over land claims becomes violent. this conflict results in fear and panic in western settlements such as edmonton. there is no centrally organized emergency management group in the northwest available to assist these settlers with the exception of the north West Mounted Police: the precursor to the rcMP.

b o i l e r s a n d P r e s s u r e v e s s e l s

over the latter part of the 1800s, the demand for steam power, combined with frequent boiler explosions, leads to a public outcry for legislation to be introduced to increase boiler safety. in response to a number of serious accidents, the steam boilers ordinance (north West territories) is formulated to provide for a system of inspection for boilers in use. this ordinance establishes the boilers branch to be responsible for the inspection of steam boilers.

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Militia Troops During the Northwest Rebellion, 1885.

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Militia Troops During the Northwest Rebellion, 1885.

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Steam threshing outfit, Cochrane area. Ca. 1900-1903.

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Steam threshing outfit, Cochrane area. Ca. 1900-1903.

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E s t a b l i s h i n g a F o u n d a t i o n

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f r a n k s l i d e

one early morning in april 1903, a large section of the summit of turtle Mountain tears loose and speeds toward the valley below. Within minutes, part of the town of frank and several hundred acres of surrounding countryside lay buried beneath 90 million tons of limestone rubble. about 70 people lose their lives. this tragedy leads to geological monitoring and early warning systems being installed on the mountain and a state-of-the-art upgrade in 2005, which is completed under the administration of emergency Management alberta.

e l e C T r i C a l

the city of calgary establishes an electrical inspection program, followed soon after by edmonton, red Deer and lethbridge.

a l b e r T a b e C o m e s a P r o v i n C e

the northwest territories are divided into the provinces of alberta and saskatchewan. both are given the right to adopt the legislation of the territories, change it, or enact entirely new laws.

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Frank slide from north-west, Frank, Alberta. 1903.

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Power plant at Eau Claire Lumber mill, Calgary, 1901.

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Inauguration Day, Edmonton, Alberta, and swearing in of Lieutenant-Governor George Hedley Vicars Bulyea. September 1, 1905.

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f r a n k s l i d e

one early morning in april 1903, a large section of the summit of turtle Mountain tears loose and speeds toward the valley below. Within minutes, part of the town of frank and several hundred acres of surrounding countryside lay buried beneath 90 million tons of limestone rubble. about 70 people lose their lives. this tragedy leads to geological monitoring and early warning systems being installed on the mountain and a state-of-the-art upgrade in 2005, which is completed under the administration of emergency Management alberta.

e l e C T r i C a l

the city of calgary establishes an electrical inspection program, followed soon after by edmonton, red Deer and lethbridge.

a l b e r T a b e C o m e s a P r o v i n C e

the northwest territories are divided into the provinces of alberta and saskatchewan. both are given the right to adopt the legislation of the territories, change it, or enact entirely new laws.

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f i r e r e P o r T i n g

the earliest annual fire loss report is recorded.

T h e f i r s T w o r l d wa r

beginning in august of 1914, the “Great War” lasts for more than four years on the battlefields of western europe. over 600,000 canadian men journey overseas to fight, and nearly 60,000 of them lose their lives.

f i r e P r e v e n T i o n a C T

alberta’s first piece of legislation establishing a formal agency to promote fire safety is proclaimed on July 19, 1919. the province’s population is 620,000 at this time, and the number of fires reported annually is in the hundreds. the act officially establishes the position of alberta fire commissioner to be held by the superintendent of insurance. the new fire Prevention branch is also established as part of the office of the Provincial secretary.

the act passes with little discussion as the spotlight during that session is taken up by two other pieces of legislation, the “Prohibition bill” and the

“Women’s suffrage bill.”

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Two members of fire department, Calgary. Ca. early 1900s.

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Two members of fire department, Calgary. Ca. early 1900s.

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191� -1918

Parade honouring soldiers leaving for war, Gleichen, Alberta. Ca. 1914-1915.

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Parade honouring soldiers leaving for war, Gleichen, Alberta. Ca. 1914-1915.

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e l e C T r i C a l

the Electrical Workers Protection Act is enacted under the jurisdiction of the board of Public utilities commissioners. the purpose of the legislation is largely to set out safety precautions for the protection of workers dealing with electricity because of the degree of danger arising from high voltage electrocution and the possibility of fire.

i n f l u e n z a e P i d e m i C

the “spanish influenza” tears through canada. this influenza is particularly devastating due to the fact that it seems to target the young and the strong. More than 20 million people die of the flu worldwide – 50,000 in canada alone. this incident alerts government and the public to the potential dangers of pandemic disease and the need to have contingency plans in place for future outbreaks.

e l e va T o r s

in its infancy, elevator safety falls under the jurisdiction of the Factories Act. in 1922, the chief factory inspector records 144 elevators operating under his jurisdiction.

19171917

1918 -1919

Telephone operators wearing influenza masks, High River. ca. 1918-1919.

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1918 -1919


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Palliser Hotel Expansion – Elevator Shafts and Controls, 1929.

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e l e C T r i C a l

the Electrical Workers Protection Act is enacted under the jurisdiction of the board of Public utilities commissioners. the purpose of the legislation is largely to set out safety precautions for the protection of workers dealing with electricity because of the degree of danger arising from high voltage electrocution and the possibility of fire.

i n f l u e n z a e P i d e m i C

the “spanish influenza” tears through canada. this influenza is particularly devastating due to the fact that it seems to target the young and the strong. More than 20 million people die of the flu worldwide – 50,000 in canada alone. this incident alerts government and the public to the potential dangers of pandemic disease and the need to have contingency plans in place for future outbreaks.

e l e va T o r s

in its infancy, elevator safety falls under the jurisdiction of the Factories Act. in 1922, the chief factory inspector records 144 elevators operating under his jurisdiction.

19171917

1918 -1919


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f i r s T f i r e C o m m i s s i o n e r

superintendent of insurance, W.M. seller becomes the first person to formally hold the office of alberta fire commissioner. after taking the position, he outlines his areas of responsibility as:

• compiling fire loss statistics,

• recording fire deaths,

• inspecting municipalities for unsafe conditions and remedying them,

• investigating fires of unknown origin, and

• distributing educational literature to the public and promoting fire safety.

f i r e P r e v e n T i o n

the fire Prevention branch holds its first fire prevention exhibit at a summer festival in edmonton. the fire commissioner is pleased with the success of the first display, and plans are immediately made to offer a similar display in calgary for 1930.

g r e a T d e P r e s s i o n

after the stock market crash in 1929, canada begins to feel the effects of a Depression that would last throughout the 1930s. the decade is characterized by high unemployment, soaring welfare costs, and drought in the prairies.

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Du-Gas Fire Extinguishing Apparatus Test, Turner Valley, 1929.

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Du-Gas Fire Extinguishing Apparatus Test, Turner Valley, 1929.

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1 0



the first week-long fire prevention exhibit is set up in the Manufacturer’s building in cooperation with the edmonton fire Department. the fire Prevention branch distributes educational literature and broadcasts fire prevention lectures over two radio stations.

P l u m b i n g

the first provincial regulations are established to address concerns related to communicable diseases spread by faulty plumbing and sewage systems.

e l e C T r i C a l

the province establishes its first electrical inspection service.

e l e va T o r s

the “regulations Governing installations, operation and Maintenance of freight and Passenger elevators” are replaced by the adoption of the canadian engineering standards association b-44 safety code for Passenger and freight elevators. alberta is one of the first provinces in canada to adopt this code.

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James W. Mould and Son plumbing store, Edmonton, 1935.

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the first week-long fire prevention exhibit is set up in the Manufacturer’s building in cooperation with the edmonton fire Department. the fire Prevention branch distributes educational literature and broadcasts fire prevention lectures over two radio stations.

P l u m b i n g

the first provincial regulations are established to address concerns related to communicable diseases spread by faulty plumbing and sewage systems.

e l e C T r i C a l

the province establishes its first electrical inspection service.

e l e va T o r s

the “regulations Governing installations, operation and Maintenance of freight and Passenger elevators” are replaced by the adoption of the canadian engineering standards association b-44 safety code for Passenger and freight elevators. alberta is one of the first provinces in canada to adopt this code.

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T h e s e C o n d w o r l d wa r

Global hostilities begin once again in 1939, as allied and axis nations battle across europe and in the Pacific until 1945. over 1 million canadians serve in the armed forces during the more than five years of combat, and 40,000 casualties are suffered.

f i r e i n s P e C T i o n s

the coconut Grove nightclub fire in boston on november 28 claims the lives of 492 people and injures 166, making it the worst nightclub fire disaster in history. this disaster prompts jurisdictions throughout north america to require many new safety features such as exit lights. in alberta, the fire is a factor in the new approach to fire inspections adopted in the early 1940s, including more regular inspections of theatres, halls and hotels.

b u i l d i n g

the first edition of the national building code is published. this code is canada’s Model building code recommended for use by municipalities.

s e l f l i q u i d a T i n g P r o j e C T s a C T

the Self Liquidating Projects Act brings water to small alberta communities. although the act is not originally intended to deal with fire protection, it has a profound impact on the fire service by providing dependable water sources in small town alberta.

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Fire at McKenzie block, 8th Avenue east, Calgary. 1946.

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Fire at McKenzie block, 8th Avenue east, Calgary. 1946.

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growTh And innovATion:

A Province comes inTo iTs own

1947-1986

the increased industrial production brought on by the second World War

fed an economic recovery in post-war alberta that was soon boosted by the

discovery of oil in leduc in 1947. the developing oil industry helped feed

alberta’s growth during the 1950s, a trend that continued when oil sands

development began in fort McMurray during the late 1960s. this left alberta

in an ideal position to benefit when oil prices began to take off in the early

1970s, and the province soon found itself in a full-fledged oil boom.

Good economic times led to the establishment of the alberta Heritage savings

trust fund in 1976, and the first phase of West edmonton Mall opened in 1981.

in 1980, however, the federal government had introduced a new national

energy Program that would share alberta’s oil profits with the rest of canada.

Dropping energy prices ended alberta’s oil boom shortly thereafter, and the

province entered into a period of economic recession.

on the political front, the social credit government that had come into power

under William aberhart in 1935 was defeated in 1971 when the Progressive

conservatives were elected and Peter lougheed became the new Premier of

alberta. lougheed served as Premier until 1985, when he was succeeded by

Don Getty.

“”

...oil prices began

to take off in

the early 1970s, and

the province soon

found itself in a full-

fledged oil boom.

1�


After Canada’s volunteer troops returned from fighting

with United Nations forces in the Korean War, Alberta

began to feel the effects of a new Cold War era that

would last for decades. Civil defence became a priority,

and other safety concerns led to the promotion of more

formal training for fire departments and the adoption of

national safety codes.

l e d u C o i l d i s C o v e r y

after drilling 133 dry holes in 1946, imperial oil strikes oil 15 kilometres west of leduc. “leduc [is] the largest discovery in canada in 33 years, and [triggers] a boom that would lead to the discovery of the bulk of canada’s oil reserves, hidden deep in the limestone and dolomite reefs of the Devonian.” (www.canadianeconomy.gc.ca/english/economy/1947leduc_oil_Discovery.html)

C o m m u n i C a T i o n

the fire Prevention branch establishes Alberta Fire News, a newsletter circulated to all fire departments in alberta. Alberta Fire News continues to be published today.

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May 2005 issue of Alberta Fire News.

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May 2005 issue of Alberta Fire News.

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g r o w t h a n d i n n o v a t i o n

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a l b e r T a C i v i l d e f e n C e

alberta’s post-war civil Defence Department is established. the major emphasis at this time is on planning and preparing for wartime emergencies.

e m e r g e n C y h e a l T h s e r v i C e s

alberta Health establishes the emergency Health services unit to help health care facilities prepare for disasters – particularly nuclear war. the unit works with Health and Welfare canada to position emergency supplies, assist hospitals to develop and exercise disaster response plans, and provide training and workshops for health care personnel. the unit will later be renamed Disaster Health services to avoid confusion with the services provided by first responders such as ambulance personnel.

r e o r g a n i z a T i o n

austin bridges becomes the first modern fire commissioner when the position is officially separated from the superintendent of insurance.

T r a i n i n g

the province determines that fire departments need local training. in response, the head of civil Defence purchases five fire trucks with federal money and employs five men to operate them and provide basic pump and fire fighting training to municipal fire departments across the province. these trucks are eventually turned over to the fire Prevention branch, which later leads to the development of the alberta fire training school.

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Alberta Fire Training School Logo.

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“Our organization established a reputation in Canada as leader in the delivery of programs designed to help municipalities and provincial government departments prepare for, and respond ef fectively to disasters and other major emergencies.

That reputation was earned as a result of the extraordinary dedication our personnel brought to the job. From our inception in 1951, we have been blessed with an abundance of competent individuals who consistently applied themselves in a highly professional manner to the many challenges the organization has faced. Albertans continue to be served well by the staff of Emergency Management Alberta.”

Ron Wolsey Executive Director Alberta Disaster Services 1982-2004


1�


a l b e r T a C i v i l d e f e n C e

alberta’s post-war civil Defence Department is established. the major emphasis at this time is on planning and preparing for wartime emergencies.

e m e r g e n C y h e a l T h s e r v i C e s

alberta Health establishes the emergency Health services unit to help health care facilities prepare for disasters – particularly nuclear war. the unit works with Health and Welfare canada to position emergency supplies, assist hospitals to develop and exercise disaster response plans, and provide training and workshops for health care personnel. the unit will later be renamed Disaster Health services to avoid confusion with the services provided by first responders such as ambulance personnel.

r e o r g a n i z a T i o n

austin bridges becomes the first modern fire commissioner when the position is officially separated from the superintendent of insurance.

T r a i n i n g

the province determines that fire departments need local training. in response, the head of civil Defence purchases five fire trucks with federal money and employs five men to operate them and provide basic pump and fire fighting training to municipal fire departments across the province. these trucks are eventually turned over to the fire Prevention branch, which later leads to the development of the alberta fire training school.

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e l e C T r i C a l

the leduc oil discovery drives an urgent need for wiring standards on oil drilling rigs and oil production facilities. after numerous meetings with oil companies in 1948, 1949 and 1951, the regulation governing electrical installations in oil fields is adopted.

a lT e r n aT e C i v i l d e f e n C e h e a d q ua r T e r s

Work begins on a special civil Defence Headquarters building in edmonton. the basement and ground floor are made of thick reinforced concrete, designed to withstand the blast effects of an atomic bomb dropped at the city’s centre.

s T a n d a r d i z a T i o n

at the request of civil defence authorities, alberta hoselines are standardized to 2 ½ inches. this “alberta Mutual aid thread” is a specification that remains in effect to this day. Machine shops are hired to develop, implement and re-cut threads on fire hoses across the province.

C i v i l d e f e n C e T r a i n i n g s C h o o l

in february, a civil defence training school is established in edmonton. by the end of 1955, thousands of volunteers have been trained, and 167 municipalities have established civil Defence organizations and emergency plans.

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Alberta Civil Defence School Rescue Course, 1954.

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Alberta Civil Defence School Rescue Course, 1954.

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f i r e d e P a r T m e n T s

this period sees the beginning of increased province-wide development of fire departments, as fire Prevention branch inspection personnel begin encouraging communities in this area during their travels across the province.

the development of centralized schools in larger communities brought about by the School Consolidation Act of the early 1950s also creates a need to improve roads in rural alberta. this leads to better access to rural fires by the urban fire departments and an increased expectation of fire protection services from rural residents.

r e C o g n i T i o n

the fire Prevention branch is recognized by the national fire Protection association for its work in promoting fire Prevention Week.

g a s

the Gas Protection Act is passed to provide protection to gasfitters and other related workers dealing with gas equipment and installations.

b o i l e r s & P r e s s u r e v e s s e l s

the Boilers and Pressure Vessels Act is passed to apply to all pressure plants. the act provides detailed regulations on the design, construction and installation of pressure vessels.

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“Equipment was something fire departments thought about, but never got around to spending any money on.”

Austin Bridges Alberta Fire Commissioner 1950-1973


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f i r e d e P a r T m e n T s

this period sees the beginning of increased province-wide development of fire departments, as fire Prevention branch inspection personnel begin encouraging communities in this area during their travels across the province.

the development of centralized schools in larger communities brought about by the School Consolidation Act of the early 1950s also creates a need to improve roads in rural alberta. this leads to better access to rural fires by the urban fire departments and an increased expectation of fire protection services from rural residents.


the fire Prevention branch is recognized by the national fire Protection association for its work in promoting fire Prevention Week.

g a s

the Gas Protection Act is passed to provide protection to gasfitters and other related workers dealing with gas equipment and installations.

b o i l e r s & P r e s s u r e v e s s e l s

the Boilers and Pressure Vessels Act is passed to apply to all pressure plants. the act provides detailed regulations on the design, construction and installation of pressure vessels.

e a r Ly19�0 se a r Ly19�0 s

19 � �19 � �

19 � �19 � �

e l e C T r i C a l

regulations are adopted governing the certification of electrical workers, and the Electrical Protection Act and its regulations are published in the “red book.” this book is used as a reference tool in the electrical industry for years.

g a s

a number of serious gas-related accidents result in the establishment of the Gas Protection branch and the development and administration of gas codes and regulations.

P a s s e n g e r r o P e wa y s

the Passenger ropeways regulation is introduced under the Factories Act.

T r a i n i n g

the alberta fire training school is established in Vermilion, and the need to train senior fire department personnel leads to the development of central training facilities for senior personnel. the fire Prevention branch spearheads the implementation of training sessions in conjunction with the agricultural colleges in fairview, olds and Vermilion.

19 � 719 � 7

19 �919 �9

“Initially, each province developed their own regulations that would meet their individual safety requirements for industries such as passenger ropeways. Then, national code-writing bodies such as CSA came on the scene, which led to national codes being adopted by all the provinces, because the need to regulate was no longer seen as a local issue, but as a national issue. Now we are starting to see even further evolution as codes become harmonized internationally to meet global needs rather than simply national.”

Al Grif fin Chief Inspector for Elevators


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e m e r g e n C y P l a n n i n g

alberta civil Defence realizes that the principles of organization and operation for a wartime disaster are similar to those required for peacetime emergencies. alberta civil Defence changes its name to the alberta emergency Measures organization and places increasing emphasis on planning and training for response to the natural and man-made emergencies that are arising more and more frequently.

n e w a u T h o r i T i e s

amendments to the Fire Prevention Act grant new powers to the fire Prevention branch, such as the formal authority to establish training assistance for fire departments, advise municipalities on matters related to fire protection, and deal with emergency situations involving a fire hazard.

g a s

two major rural natural gas distribution systems are constructed using plastic pipe. the use of this innovative material to replace steel pipe makes it possible to supply many additional rural customers with natural gas.

e l e C T r i C a l

the Master electrician’s certificate program is put into effect province-wide.

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Alberta Emergency Measures Organization.

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e m e r g e n C y P l a n n i n g

alberta civil Defence realizes that the principles of organization and operation for a wartime disaster are similar to those required for peacetime emergencies. alberta civil Defence changes its name to the alberta emergency Measures organization and places increasing emphasis on planning and training for response to the natural and man-made emergencies that are arising more and more frequently.

n e w a u T h o r i T i e s

amendments to the Fire Prevention Act grant new powers to the fire Prevention branch, such as the formal authority to establish training assistance for fire departments, advise municipalities on matters related to fire protection, and deal with emergency situations involving a fire hazard.

g a s

two major rural natural gas distribution systems are constructed using plastic pipe. the use of this innovative material to replace steel pipe makes it possible to supply many additional rural customers with natural gas.

e l e C T r i C a l

the Master electrician’s certificate program is put into effect province-wide.

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d i s a s T e r s e r v i C e s a C T

the establishment of the Disaster Services Act brings the emergency Measures organization to a turning point. as part of the new act, a disaster financial assistance program (“operation Wetfoot”) is implemented and more than $8,958,472 is paid out to the victims of the many disasters that affect alberta that year. the act is the authority for the organization to be renamed alberta Disaster services.

b u i l d i n g s T a n d a r d s b r a n C h e s T a b l i s h e d – f i r s T P r o v i n C i a l b u i l d i n g C o d e

under the alberta building code – 1974, training for building inspectors is introduced for the first time, and uniformity in their practices is promoted through twice-yearly full-day technical sessions at their conferences.

the barrier-free Design advisory committee is established to advise the department on building code issues related to access for persons with disabilities and to assist in the development of the barrier-free Design Guide.

a m u s e m e n T r i d e s

Public concern over the condition of some amusement rides at Happy Valley near calgary prompts the adoption by regulation of canadian standards association standard Z267-1971 Midway safety code.

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2 0


C o s T- s h a r e P r o g r a m

Proposals are made for a cost-shared emergency equipment program. this enables municipalities to purchase equipment needed for emergencies, with part of the cost paid by the province. the program starts in 1979 and ends in 1986, by which time the province has invested $800,000 in the program.

f i r e d e T e C T i o n

With smoke detectors hitting the market in the mid-1970s, the fire Prevention branch runs an article in Alberta Fire News promoting their use and providing details on the various models available. the average cost for a battery-operated detector is around $75.00.

f o C u s s i n g o n C h i l d r e n

the fire Prevention branch launches an educational campaign specifically aimed at teaching children in rural alberta about fire safety. children would continue to be a central focus for the branch in future campaigns.

P r o P a n e l e a k i n m i l lw o o d s

a propane gas pipeline ruptures in the Millwoods area of edmonton, causing an explosion and fire. edmonton’s “red book” Peacetime emergency operations Plan is activated as set out in the Disaster Services Act, and the area’s 19,000 residents are evacuated. some evacuees are accommodated in city schools and provided with catering services by the canadian forces.

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19 7 919 7 9


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C o s T- s h a r e P r o g r a m

Proposals are made for a cost-shared emergency equipment program. this enables municipalities to purchase equipment needed for emergencies, with part of the cost paid by the province. the program starts in 1979 and ends in 1986, by which time the province has invested $800,000 in the program.

f i r e d e T e C T i o n

With smoke detectors hitting the market in the mid-1970s, the fire Prevention branch runs an article in Alberta Fire News promoting their use and providing details on the various models available. the average cost for a battery-operated detector is around $75.00.

f o C u s s i n g o n C h i l d r e n

the fire Prevention branch launches an educational campaign specifically aimed at teaching children in rural alberta about fire safety. children would continue to be a central focus for the branch in future campaigns.

P r o P a n e l e a k i n m i l lw o o d s

a propane gas pipeline ruptures in the Millwoods area of edmonton, causing an explosion and fire. edmonton’s “red book” Peacetime emergency operations Plan is activated as set out in the Disaster Services Act, and the area’s 19,000 residents are evacuated. some evacuees are accommodated in city schools and provided with catering services by the canadian forces.

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19 7 919 7 9

s o u r g a s P l a n

a major emission of sour gas occurs from a well near the Village of lodgepole. as a result of this accident, a comprehensive plan is prepared to deal with any future sour gas leak in the province. by 2005, this plan, which is administered by emergency Management alberta, is in its 4th version and is known as the upstream Petroleum incident support Plan.

e l e va T o r s

the national standards of canada csa safety code for elevating Devices for the Handicapped is adopted by regulation.

a l b e r T a f i r e C o d e

an amendment to the Fire Prevention Act provides for the adoption of the alberta fire code. this new comprehensive code replaces the variety of municipal bylaws and provincial regulations that had been in force up to this time.

a l b e r Ta P u b l i C s a f e T y s e rv i C e s

alberta Disaster services is renamed alberta Public safety services to more accurately reflect its new responsibilities for both disaster services and the transportation of dangerous goods.

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Alberta Public Safety Services logo.

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Alberta Public Safety Services logo.

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d i s a s T e r a s s i s T a n C e

Major floods in north central alberta result in $18,000,000 being paid out in disaster assistance. this flood recovery Program is the largest Disaster assistance Program ever initiated in canada and is cost-shared by the federal Government under the guidelines of the Disaster financial assistance arrangements.

1986 also sees the opening of the new alberta Public safety services training school in edmonton. Jointly funded by the Government of alberta and the Government of canada, the building, with its lecture rooms, classrooms, amphitheatre and all-weather rescue training facilities, allows alberta Public safety services to take a giant stride in improving and rejuvenating training courses offered to albertans.


West edmonton Mall’s Mindbender accident occurs when the roller coaster’s axel assembly detaches from one of the cars, causing the coaster to veer off the tracks and into a column. three fatalities and one serious injury are suffered. Public fatality inquiries are held, and changes are made to the Mindbender’s structure to prevent future accidents. the accident also contributes to the adoption of new amusement rides safety legislation with enhanced safety requirements.

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High efficiency furnaces are introduced to natural gas and propane consumers.

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Edmonton Flood, 1986.

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2 �



Major floods in north central alberta result in $18,000,000 being paid out in disaster assistance. this flood recovery Program is the largest Disaster assistance Program ever initiated in canada and is cost-shared by the federal Government under the guidelines of the Disaster financial assistance arrangements.

1986 also sees the opening of the new alberta Public safety services training school in edmonton. Jointly funded by the Government of alberta and the Government of canada, the building, with its lecture rooms, classrooms, amphitheatre and all-weather rescue training facilities, allows alberta Public safety services to take a giant stride in improving and rejuvenating training courses offered to albertans.


West edmonton Mall’s Mindbender accident occurs when the roller coaster’s axel assembly detaches from one of the cars, causing the coaster to veer off the tracks and into a column. three fatalities and one serious injury are suffered. Public fatality inquiries are held, and changes are made to the Mindbender’s structure to prevent future accidents. the accident also contributes to the adoption of new amusement rides safety legislation with enhanced safety requirements.

g a s

High efficiency furnaces are introduced to natural gas and propane consumers.

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“”

After being returned

to power, the Klein

government introduced

sweeping reforms

designed to put the

province’s finances

back in order.

TAking sTock:

A renewed vision for The sAfeTy

sysTem 1987-2000

the late 1980s were bittersweet in alberta. While the province shone on the

world stage with both the edmonton oilers and calgary flames winning

stanley cups and calgary hosting the 1988 Winter olympics, a tornado that

hit edmonton in 1987 brought tragedy as 27 people lost their lives and

hundreds more were injured.

an economic recession also continued, causing the government to

run budget deficits and increase the provincial debt. after ralph Klein

succeeded Don Getty as Premier in 1992, the Progressive conservatives ran

a 1993 provincial election campaign that focused on fiscal responsibility

and deficit elimination. after being returned to power, the Klein

government introduced sweeping reforms designed to put the province’s

finances back in order. Privatization and reorganization were employed

to cut government spending, and a new business planning approach was

introduced to aid in deficit elimination.

2 �


The worst disaster in the history of Alberta led to

increased innovation in the area of disaster preparation

and planning. This period also saw significant

developments in the areas of fire prevention and safety

services, and the three areas – Disaster Services, the

Fire Commissioner’s Office and Safety Services – would

soon come together under one organization: the

Public Safety Division of Alberta Municipal Affairs.

T o r n a d o ( b l a C k f r i d a y )

a tornado strikes the city of edmonton and strathcona county on July 31, killing 27 people and injuring more than 350, making it the largest sudden disaster in terms of loss of life in the history of alberta. the funnel cloud wreaks havoc along a 42 km track and is reported to be in contact with the ground for more than 35 minutes. this disaster represents an important test for alberta Public safety services and the municipalities’ emergency plans.

as a result of the edmonton tornado, the Disaster assistance Program is modified to permit people who have suffered catastrophic losses to receive immediate financial assistance. a new program called the industrial recovery assistance Program helps businesses. this program enables businesses devastated by the tornado to resume their operations quickly and without having to lay off workers. over $35 million is paid out to farmers, businesses and individuals as a result of this catastrophe.

19 8 7

Edmonton 1987 Tornado.

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2 �


The worst disaster in the history of Alberta led to

increased innovation in the area of disaster preparation

and planning. This period also saw significant

developments in the areas of fire prevention and safety

services, and the three areas – Disaster Services, the

Fire Commissioner’s Office and Safety Services – would

soon come together under one organization: the

Public Safety Division of Alberta Municipal Affairs.

T o r n a d o ( b l a C k f r i d a y )

a tornado strikes the city of edmonton and strathcona county on July 31, killing 27 people and injuring more than 350, making it the largest sudden disaster in terms of loss of life in the history of alberta. the funnel cloud wreaks havoc along a 42 km track and is reported to be in contact with the ground for more than 35 minutes. this disaster represents an important test for alberta Public safety services and the municipalities’ emergency plans.

as a result of the edmonton tornado, the Disaster assistance Program is modified to permit people who have suffered catastrophic losses to receive immediate financial assistance. a new program called the industrial recovery assistance Program helps businesses. this program enables businesses devastated by the tornado to resume their operations quickly and without having to lay off workers. over $35 million is paid out to farmers, businesses and individuals as a result of this catastrophe.

19 8 7


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g e n e r a l s a f e T y s e rv iC e s di v i s io n m i s s io n

the General safety services Division defines its mission to “promote public safety through programs that encourage and facilitate the acceptance of safety standards and responsibilities by industry and the general public respecting fuel gas, plumbing, buildings, elevators and fixed conveyances, fire prevention, electrical protection and fire equipment.”

f i r e P r e v e n T i o n b r a n C h C h a n g e s f o C u s

the activities of the fire Prevention branch move away from inspections and investigations to focus more on its information and education responsibilities.


alberta Public safety services, in conjunction with alberta Health, develops critical incident stress Debriefing resources to help deal with stress trauma, which afflicts emergency service workers and the victims of emergencies and disasters.

b u i l d i n g C o d e

alberta becomes the first province in canada to require all buildings over four storeys and all residential buildings over three storeys or over 600 square metres in building area to have sprinklers.

emergenC y Pr ePar edne ss Progr a m – fir sT naTions

in cooperation with indian and northern affairs canada, alberta Public safety services initiates the delivery of an emergency preparedness program to first nations in april 1990.

19 8 819 8 8

19 8 8 -19 8 9 19 8 8 -19 8 9

19 9 0

Apartment building under construction in Edmonton.

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Apartment building under construction in Edmonton.

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First Nations Emergency Management logo.

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First Nations Emergency Management logo.

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2 �


f i r e C o m m i s s i o n e r’s o f f i C e

the fire Prevention branch is officially re-named the fire commissioner’s office.

e m e rg e n C y P u b l i C wa r n i n g s y s T e m (e P w s)

the ePWs is launched as a pilot project in the edmonton area as a result of the 1987 edmonton and area tornado. the ePWs provides warnings of imminent danger when disaster threatens albertans living within range of any radio or television station in the province.

d i s a s T e r a s s i s T a n C e r e n a m e d

the Disaster assistance Program is renamed the Disaster recovery Program.

s a f e T y C o d e s C o u n C i l

the safety codes council is established as a partner in the province’s safety system and delegated the responsibility to formulate and oversee the development of safety codes and standards throughout the province.

19 91

Fire Commissioner’s Office logo.

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19 9 2

EPWS logo.

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EPWS logo.

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19 9 2 -19 9� 19 9 2 -19 9�

19 9�

Safety Codes Council logo.

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2 7


f i r e C o m m i s s i o n e r’s o f f i C e

the fire Prevention branch is officially re-named the fire commissioner’s office.

e m e rg e n C y P u b l i C wa r n i n g s y s T e m (e P w s)

the ePWs is launched as a pilot project in the edmonton area as a result of the 1987 edmonton and area tornado. the ePWs provides warnings of imminent danger when disaster threatens albertans living within range of any radio or television station in the province.

d i s a s T e r a s s i s T a n C e r e n a m e d

the Disaster assistance Program is renamed the Disaster recovery Program.

s a f e T y C o d e s C o u n C i l

the safety codes council is established as a partner in the province’s safety system and delegated the responsibility to formulate and oversee the development of safety codes and standards throughout the province.

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19 9 2

EPWS logo.

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EPWS logo.

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19 9 2 -19 9� 19 9 2 -19 9�

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T h e s a f e T y C o d e s aC T C o m e s i n T o f u l l e f f e C T

the Safety Codes Act consolidates and replaces a number of pieces of legislation governing safety in the nine disciplines covered by safety services.

g ov e r n m e n T e m e rge nC y oPe r aT ion s C e n T r e

in early June, the Government emergency operations centre (Geoc) is activated to support the city of fort McMurray after a wildfire cuts off the only highway into the community. one week later, a massive flood of the river basins in southern alberta prompts the Geoc to be re-activated.

1995 also sees significant restructuring of alberta Public safety services and closure of the training school. alberta Public safety services becomes a branch of alberta transportation & utilities.

e d u C a T i o n P r o g r a m

With the support of fire Prevention canada, the Learn Not To Burn fire safety education program is launched in canadian elementary schools. in alberta, the fire commissioner’s office coordinates the delivery of materials to schools and assists fire departments with conducting training programs for teachers.

e m e r g e n C y P u b l i C wa r n i n g s y s T e m ( e P w s )

the ePWs expands to cover all of edmonton and is extended into the calgary area.

19 9 �19 9 �

19 9 � 19 9 �

“The Emergency Public Warning System and the supporting plan are excellent examples of cooperation between the government and the private sector to enhance the safety of Albertans.“

Dr. Steve West Minister of Transportation and Utilities


2 8


a new safeTy sysTem

With the Safety Codes Act implemented and the safety codes council in full operation, a number of changes begin to affect the province’s safety system, including:

• a move from a provincial service delivery model to a local service delivery model through the accreditation of municipalities, corporations and agencies,

• working with the safety codes council to recommend codes and standards for adoption, to establish policies in the areas of accreditation and certification, and to hear appeals, and

• the certification of safety codes officers (previously inspectors), which establishes standards of competency.

i C e s T o r m

for six days in January, freezing rain coats ontario, Quebec and new brunswick with 7-11 cm of ice. according to environment canada, the ice storm of 1998 directly affected more people than any other previous weather event in canadian history.

the Government emergency operations centre (Geoc) is activated at the request of emergency Preparedness canada in support of the Provinces of ontario and Quebec. More than 100 generators with megawatt capability are obtained from local suppliers and shipped by rail.

19 9 8

Alberta Generators are shipped East.

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a new safeTy sysTem

With the Safety Codes Act implemented and the safety codes council in full operation, a number of changes begin to affect the province’s safety system, including:

• a move from a provincial service delivery model to a local service delivery model through the accreditation of municipalities, corporations and agencies,

• working with the safety codes council to recommend codes and standards for adoption, to establish policies in the areas of accreditation and certification, and to hear appeals, and

• the certification of safety codes officers (previously inspectors), which establishes standards of competency.

i C e s T o r m

for six days in January, freezing rain coats ontario, Quebec and new brunswick with 7-11 cm of ice. according to environment canada, the ice storm of 1998 directly affected more people than any other previous weather event in canadian history.

the Government emergency operations centre (Geoc) is activated at the request of emergency Preparedness canada in support of the Provinces of ontario and Quebec. More than 100 generators with megawatt capability are obtained from local suppliers and shipped by rail.

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e x P a n d e d f o C u s

With injuries being identified as the number one killer of children over one year of age in alberta, the fire commissioner’s office moves from specializing in fire safety to focusing on education in the more comprehensive area of injury prevention. the office begins promoting Risk Watch, a new program that combines fire and burn material from the Learn Not To Burn program with lessons in seven other injury areas that account for childhood mortality.

g o v e r n m e n T r e o r g a n i z a T i o n

Disaster services, the fire commissioner’s office and safety services are moved into alberta Municipal affairs.

d i s a s T e r r e C o v e r y

in July, an f3 tornado tears through the Green acres campground at Pine lake. there are 12 fatalities and more than 60 injured. the county of red Deer manages recovery efforts according to its Municipal emergency Plan, and thousands of volunteers respond to help the county.

a disaster recovery program is quickly approved that provides over $6.8 million to assist people and municipalities who suffered catastrophic loss.

e n v i ro n m e n Ta l C l e a n - u P

in response to changes made in the 1990s to legislation regarding underground petroleum storage tanks, cabinet establishes a $60 million grant program to financially assist tank owners in testing and cleaning their properties to alberta environment standards. responsibility for developing and implementing the program is assigned to Public safety Division’s newly established Policy and Program Development branch, and the underground Petroleum storage tank site remediation Program is officially launched in october 2000.

in 2002, administration of this first of its kind grant program is transferred to the safety codes council.

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2 0 0 0

Aftermath of the Pine Lake tornado.

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Aftermath of the Pine Lake tornado.

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Underground Petroleum Storage Tank removal in rural Alberta.

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Underground Petroleum Storage Tank removal in rural Alberta.

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“Risk Watch is an exciting development in the promotion of safety for children. A Calgary teacher has been recognized as Risk Watch teacher of the year, and we’ve tailored the program specifically for Canadian schools. Risk Watch is supported by people from teaching, firefighting, emergency services, law enforcement and health. It’s a cooperative approach to taking on the injury-prevention challenge.”

Mahendra Wijayasinghe Assistant Fire Commissioner Research & Programs


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“”

...and (BSE) had a

tremendous

economic impact

on the province’s

cattle industry.

looking AheAd:

building A sAfeTy sysTem for The

21sT cenTury 2001-2005

alberta entered the 21st century with renewed strength and confidence in

the future. budgetary reforms of the mid-1990s had eliminated government

deficits, and high oil and gas revenues had helped the province to achieve the

strongest economy in canada.

along with these successes, the new century brought significant challenges as

well. the terrorist attacks in the united states on september 11, 2001 changed

the way north americans thought about their security, and alberta acted

quickly to address the threat in the new security climate. in 2003, the province

faced a crisis that hit closer to home when a case of bovine spongiform

encephalopathy (bse) was confirmed in an alberta cow. this caused the

united states to close its border to canadian beef, and had a tremendous

economic impact on the province’s cattle industry. the Government of alberta

responded to the situation with financial support, and worked with u.s.

officials toward re-opening the border.

Despite these challenges, the Government of alberta was well on its way

to eliminating the provincial debt, a goal it would achieve in the province’s

centennial year of 2005. in 2004, the Government of alberta built on the

sense of optimism in the future by introducing a 20-year plan to help alberta

achieve more success in its second century. the plan outlined specific goals

for albertans to achieve in four key areas: unleashing innovation; leading in

learning; competing in a global marketplace; and making alberta the best

place to live, work and visit.

�1


Although the events of September 11, 2001 did not

reinvent the emergency management process in Alberta,

they did significantly raise the area’s profile in the public

consciousness. As a result, the post 9/11 era would

see major changes in the business side of emergency

management. The period would also see the beginnings

of major changes in Safety Services and the Fire

Commissioner’s Office. A major public consultation led to

the development of a number of initiatives designed to

strengthen the province’s safety system and support the

Alberta fire service in the 21st Century.

a n h y d r o u s a m m o n i a l e a k

in february, an anhydrous ammonia leak from a rail car in the city of red Deer causes the evacuation of hundreds of city residents and places many more on evacuation alert. the Government emergency operations centre is activated for two days in support of the city’s emergency operations.

9/1 1

immediately after the terrorist attacks in the united states on september 11, Premier ralph Klein forms a Government of alberta task force on security to address the impact of the attacks on the safety and security of albertans. the task force directs that a plan to address the threat of terrorism be developed, and the alberta counter terrorism crisis Management Plan is approved by cabinet on february 5, 2002.

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“September 11, 2001 did not change the emergency management process in Alberta – terrorism had always been one of the hazards covered by the Alberta Emergency Plan. Rather, the terrible events of that day simply raised the focus on this one hazard.”

Dave Redman Executive Director EMA (Emergency Management Alberta)

l o o k i n g a h E a d

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b u s i n e s s r e s u m P T i o n P l a n n i n g i n i T i a T i v e

eMa (emergency Management alberta) leads business resumption Planning to ensure all provincial government department business resumption plans are developed, tested and coordinated to work effectively if and when needed.

norT h- C e n T r a l a l be rTa for e s T f i r e di sa s T e r r e C ov e ry Pro g r a m

the 2001 north-central alberta forest fire Disaster recovery Program is implemented as a result of several large forest fires from May through July. this is considered the worst fire season in recent history. a total of $356,000 is approved for nine rural municipalities to assist with their emergency operations costs. this includes costs associated with the evacuation of residences and municipal infrastructure repairs such as road work.

s e C u r i T y f o r g 8 s u m m i T

the government activates the Government emergency operations centre to monitor the activities of the G8 summit held in Kananaskis country.

d i s a s T e r r e C o v e r y P r o g r a m – f l o o d s

Heavy rainfall in the summer causes extensive overland flooding in southern alberta and the edson area. Disaster recovery programs are established that provide $17.685 million to assist albertans with uninsurable losses.

2 0 0 22 0 0 2

“ Working with community programs gives me the opportunity to work with and learn from some of the finest people in the province, those who take on the responsibility of planning for and responding to major emergencies and disasters in their communities.”

Randy Tiller District Officer – South Central Alberta EMA (Emergency Management Alberta)


� �


b u s i n e s s r e s u m P T i o n P l a n n i n g i n i T i a T i v e

eMa (emergency Management alberta) leads business resumption Planning to ensure all provincial government department business resumption plans are developed, tested and coordinated to work effectively if and when needed.

norT h- C e n T r a l a l be rTa for e s T f i r e di sa s T e r r e C ov e ry Pro g r a m

the 2001 north-central alberta forest fire Disaster recovery Program is implemented as a result of several large forest fires from May through July. this is considered the worst fire season in recent history. a total of $356,000 is approved for nine rural municipalities to assist with their emergency operations costs. this includes costs associated with the evacuation of residences and municipal infrastructure repairs such as road work.

s e C u r i T y f o r g 8 s u m m i T

the government activates the Government emergency operations centre to monitor the activities of the G8 summit held in Kananaskis country.

d i s a s T e r r e C o v e r y P r o g r a m – f l o o d s

Heavy rainfall in the summer causes extensive overland flooding in southern alberta and the edson area. Disaster recovery programs are established that provide $17.685 million to assist albertans with uninsurable losses.

2 0 0 22 0 0 2

o f f i C i a l l a u n C h o f e m a

the official launch of eMa (emergency Management alberta) is announced at the Crisis Management: An Alberta Perspective conference in calgary, november 2002. the conference is jointly sponsored by the Minister of Municipal affairs and the solicitor General and provides partners in municipal government, first response organizations, and the private sector with the latest information on initiatives and activities.

a l b e r T a e m e r g e n C y s e r v i C e s m e d a l

renewed interest in the emergency services sparked by 9/11 is one factor in the establishment of the alberta emergency services Medal. the medal is introduced to pay tribute to outstanding full-time, part-time and volunteer members who have committed 12 or more years of their careers to emergency service in alberta.

a m b e r a l e r T

the aMber alert program is launched in December, allowing major police forces to use the ePWs (emergency Public Warning system) to request public assistance in finding lost and abducted children.

m u n i C i P a l w i l d f i r e a s s i s T a n C e P r o g r a m

the Municipal Wildfire assistance Program is developed in partnership with sustainable resource Development. the program assists municipal governments with the cost of fighting wildfires and limits the financial burden on local taxpayers when wildfires impact their communities.

Emergency Management Alberta logo.

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Emergency Management Alberta logo.

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Emergency Services Medal.

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Emergency Services Medal.

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s a f e T y s y s T e m r e v i e w

the safety system review final report is released to the public. based on feedback from extensive consultations conducted in 2001 and 2002, this report becomes the primary long-term strategic document for the department and the safety codes council in guiding the province’s safety system.

the report also includes recommendations regarding the development of a vision for the fire service, as well as greater coordination among fire departments.

e m a ( e m e r g e n C y m a n a g e m e n T a l b e r Ta )

eMa moves its branch operations to a new state-of-the-art operations centre located in the west-end of edmonton.

the emergency Management alberta operations centre (eMaoc) is officially opened on December 18th and is attended by the Honourable anne Mclellan, Minister responsible for Public safety and emergency Preparedness canada. one week earlier, united states ambassador Paul cellucci had also toured the eMaoc.


the inaugural presentation of the alberta emergency services Medal is held on the steps of the alberta legislature building. the ceremony is attended by approximately 600 guests, including Mlas, more than 300 medal recipients, and Premier ralph Klein .

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Deputy Prime Minister Anne McLellan speaks at EMA Grand Opening.

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Premier Ralph Klein (centre) attends Inaugural Ceremony of the Alberta Emergency Services Medal.

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s a f e T y s y s T e m r e v i e w

the safety system review final report is released to the public. based on feedback from extensive consultations conducted in 2001 and 2002, this report becomes the primary long-term strategic document for the department and the safety codes council in guiding the province’s safety system.

the report also includes recommendations regarding the development of a vision for the fire service, as well as greater coordination among fire departments.

e m a ( e m e r g e n C y m a n a g e m e n T a l b e r Ta )

eMa moves its branch operations to a new state-of-the-art operations centre located in the west-end of edmonton.

the emergency Management alberta operations centre (eMaoc) is officially opened on December 18th and is attended by the Honourable anne Mclellan, Minister responsible for Public safety and emergency Preparedness canada. one week earlier, united states ambassador Paul cellucci had also toured the eMaoc.


the inaugural presentation of the alberta emergency services Medal is held on the steps of the alberta legislature building. the ceremony is attended by approximately 600 guests, including Mlas, more than 300 medal recipients, and Premier ralph Klein .

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f i r e s e r v i C e s a d v i s o r y C o m m i T T e e

the Minister of Municipal affairs establishes the alberta fire services advisory committee to represent the entire alberta fire service and provide a unifying framework to facilitate inter-department cooperation and mutual aid and ultimately improve the quality and value of the province’s fire services.

d i s a s T e r r e C o v e r y P r o g r a m s

three disaster recovery programs provide approximately $6.7 million in funding to assist with recovery from a severe weather event in the town of Grimshaw, the lost creek fire in the crowsnest Pass and floods in northwest alberta.

P o l i C y a n d s T r a T e g i C s e r v i C e s

the Policy and Program Development branch is renamed Policy and strategic services to better reflect the strategic nature of the work it does to support the three program areas of the Public safety Division. this work includes leading policy development, providing strategic guidance for planning and issues management, coordinating divisional initiatives and communications, and providing program assessment services.

Members of the Fire Services Advisory Committee at a February 2004 meeting in Edmonton.

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Members of the Fire Services Advisory Committee at a February 2004 meeting in Edmonton.

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b i l l 2 0 1 , b a r r i e r - f r e e d e s i g n a n d a C C e s s a m e n d m e n T s

bill 201, a private member’s bill to amend the Safety Codes Act, is passed. these amendments allow for the creation of a barrier-free Design and access Policy council. the council establishes a permanent voice for disabled albertans, thereby ensuring that government hears from those most directly affected when considering matters of public policy affecting the disabled.

2 0 0 4 d i s a s T e r r e C o v e r y P r o g r a m s

severe weather continues to impact the province in 2004. three disaster recovery programs are announced for the Greater edmonton area, Kneehill county and the Greater calgary area, and a total of $24.1 million is provided to help albertans and municipal governments recover from overland flooding that resulted from severe storms and heavy rainfall. the edmonton program is the largest ever launched to help albertans recover from a disastrous event.

w e l l e x P l o s i o n

on December 12, the acclaim energy trust limited H2s well at acheson blows. some families from the enoch reserve are evacuated. the energy & utilities board activates their regional emergency operations centre (reoc), and eMa works closely with acclaim and enoch reserve emergency Management staff at the reoc.

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Flood hits Whitemud Freeway in Edmonton.

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“One area of significant change during the past 30 years affects services provided for the physically disabled. The Alberta Building Code 1974 contained only a few requirements; covering an accessible entrance, access to public spaces on the entry floor, and washroom access. This is light years away from the comprehensive requirements of today’s Alberta Building Code, which seeks to ensure equality for everyone in the built environment.”

Chris Tye Director, Building and Fire Standards Safety Services


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b i l l 2 0 1 , b a r r i e r - f r e e d e s i g n a n d a C C e s s a m e n d m e n T s

bill 201, a private member’s bill to amend the Safety Codes Act, is passed. these amendments allow for the creation of a barrier-free Design and access Policy council. the council establishes a permanent voice for disabled albertans, thereby ensuring that government hears from those most directly affected when considering matters of public policy affecting the disabled.

2 0 0 4 d i s a s T e r r e C o v e r y P r o g r a m s

severe weather continues to impact the province in 2004. three disaster recovery programs are announced for the Greater edmonton area, Kneehill county and the Greater calgary area, and a total of $24.1 million is provided to help albertans and municipal governments recover from overland flooding that resulted from severe storms and heavy rainfall. the edmonton program is the largest ever launched to help albertans recover from a disastrous event.

w e l l e x P l o s i o n

on December 12, the acclaim energy trust limited H2s well at acheson blows. some families from the enoch reserve are evacuated. the energy & utilities board activates their regional emergency operations centre (reoc), and eMa works closely with acclaim and enoch reserve emergency Management staff at the reoc.

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e m a P r e s e n TaT i o n i n wa s h i n g T o n , d . C .

the executive Director of emergency Management alberta briefs the united states Government on emergency management in alberta and security practices at the opening of the 109th congress.

a e r i s

fire departments from across the province are given direct access to the response-related capacities of the entire alberta fire service through the alberta emergency resources inventory system (aeris). this first of its kind system helps protect the public by allowing fire departments to quickly locate and begin dispatch procedures to obtain the specialized personnel and resources they might require during a major emergency.

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EMA presentation to US Congress.

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EMA presentation to US Congress.

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“”

Throughout the last

century, Alberta has

established a tradition

of strength and

flexibility in dealing

with safety issues.

The nexT 100 yeArs...

in its first century, alberta has seen tremendous change. since 1905, the

province has developed from a pioneering frontier into a thriving economic

power, and that transformation has resulted in a multitude of social changes

along the way.

one thing that remains constant, however, is the Government of alberta’s

commitment to protecting the safety of its citizens. as times have changed,

the areas of safety services, fire prevention and emergency management have

evolved to account for those developments and to maintain public safety and

security in the province.

as alberta heads into its second century, new technologies, economic

realities and social shifts will continue to affect the way albertans perceive

the province’s safety system. throughout the last century, alberta has

established a tradition of strength and flexibility in dealing with safety issues.

this tradition assures albertans that, as times change, the safety system will

continue to evolve to meet new challenges and continue to provide albertans

with the highest level of public safety possible.

alberta’s - design quarry · growth and innovation: a province comes into its own 1947-1986 12...

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