Presidents Message & Our Vision

Message from the President

At Alberta Fire Aid, our mission is simple: to support fire departments that are struggling to equip their members and apparatus due to budget constraints. As a firefighter and paramedic, I’ve visited countless small rural departments in First Nations communities, towns, and villages across Alberta. Too often, I’ve seen outdated, inadequate, or even unsafe equipment — and it’s stuck with me.

The rising cost of PPE and firefighting tools forces departments to make tough choices, often leaving critical gaps in safety and service. Alberta Fire Aid exists to help fill those gaps — to ensure that firefighters have the gear they need to protect themselves and their communities.

The ability of any department to serve its community depends on its people, their training, and the equipment they rely on. Our goal is to be a reliable resource for departments that need a hand — especially when budgets fall short.

To do this, we’re calling on departments, municipalities, and corporations across Alberta: if you have equipment or PPE available at the end of its service life or budget cycle, please consider donating it to Alberta Fire Aid. With your help, we can strengthen fire services across the province and make sure every firefighter goes home safe.

Together, we can make Alberta’s fire service a safer, stronger place to work and volunteer.

Dean Dumbeck
President
Alberta Fire Aid

Our Vision

Alberta Fire Aid was born out of a simple but urgent need: too many fire departments across Alberta are operating with the bare minimum — and often with outdated or below-standard equipment and protective gear.

While most departments meet basic OH&S requirements, many lack access to essential tools that could enhance firefighter safety or improve their ability to serve their communities. In far too many cases, departments are forced to “make do” with gear that’s beyond its service life or no longer fit for purpose.

Our core mission is to give that equipment a second life — to collect, refurbish, and redistribute functional PPE and firefighting tools to departments in need across Alberta. When possible, we also assist other organizations in finding homes for equipment across Canada and around the world.

We aim to serve as a trusted bridge for municipalities, corporations, and departments looking to donate unused or surplus equipment — ensuring it ends up where it can still make a difference.

Alberta Fire Aid is a 100% volunteer-run, not-for-profit organization. Every member of our society donates their time in service of a safer, stronger fire service.