A PROUD TRADITION OF PROTECTING LIVES, PROPERTY AND ALL WE HOLD DEAR IN OUR COMMUNITY
SINCE 1882
A proud tradition of protecting lives, property and all we hold dear in our community
Since 1882
Our crews respond quickly to your emergencies from 27 fire halls across the city on over 40 different trucks. With licensed paramedics on every truck, we are able to deliver the highest standard of paramedic care to your doorstep in minutes in your time of need.
HISTORY
A department rich in history and service
The United Fire Fighters of Winnipeg IAFF Local 867 has a rich history dating to 1874, when it was established with a volunteer force of 20 men and one steam engine. The department was officially formed in 1882, which you’ll see today on our uniforms.
Over the years, the department has grown and evolved, with significant milestones including its first motorized fire truck in 1911, and its first aerial ladder truck in 1960.
1874
The Winnipeg Fire Department is established as a volunteer fire brigade, made up of 20 men and one steam engine
1882
The department is officially formed. William Orme McRobie was the first chief, making $1,800 per year.
1910
The department receives its first motorized equipment.
1919
The department begins a two-platoon system. Fire fighters adopt an 84-hour work week, allowing them for the first time to leave the fire hall for more than only a few hours on Sunday.
1928
The Fire Prevention Bureau is established with three members.
1946
Implementation of the three-platoon system. Fire fighters adopt a 46-hour work week.
The 44-hour work week is established.
1950
Two-way radios are provided to each fire apparatus.
1956
A training program is established and a director of training is appointed.
1959
Winnipeg is the first city in North America to receive a three-digit emergency phone number – the 911 system is born!
1999
The Winnipeg Fire Service Museum opens to the public.
2002
Led by former UFFW President Alex Forrest, Manitoba becomes the first province in Canada to adopt Fire Fighter Presumptive coverage.
The legislation is further amended with additional covered cancers in 2005, 2009, 2011 and 2022. Through significant lobbying, the “Manitoba Model” has since been adopted across Canada, the United States, Europe and Scandinavian countries.
